Shedding The Myth That Weights Are ‘Men Only’

SHEDDING THE MYTH THAT WEIGHTS ARE MEN ONLY

            There is no reason why when training a woman should not use weights to improve and enhance her program/plan. Whether it’s in a class situation, gym based or working out at home everyone should include a “WEIGHTS” section.

            MYTH NO.1

“IF I USE WEIGHTS AND THEN STOP IT WILL TURN TO FAT”

                                    This of course is both wrong and impossible, muscle and fat are both totally different body tissues.  When training is stopped we often continue to eat the same amount but our bodies need fewer calories when not active, the muscle looses strength and size therefore burns less calories. The facts are the same for both men and women.

            The same goes for toning certain areas of the body if there is a large amount of fat the toning of the muscles may not show on the outside but it will still be benefiting your body making it stronger i.e. : if working on your “core” tummy & back you may expect to see the results but you should feel them by way of better posture often decreased back ache, better digestion and even smaller waste size.

MYTH NO.2

“IF I USE WEIGHTS I WILL BUILD TOO MUCH MUSCLE AND

                       LOOK BULKY”

                        This is a very common fear but gaining large amounts of muscle is actually difficult to do and harder again for women as they don’t have the levels of testosterone men have to “bulk up”. A basic rule to avoid getting larger muscles is to use light weights and do more repetitions, this will enable you to create leaner more defined muscles. This doesn’t mean women shouldn’t increase the weight they’re using as training progresses.

            There is no physiological reason why a woman can’t perform the same exercises as a man and we should not make the excuse that being a woman we shouldn’t lift weights or perform other exercises.

BENIFITS OF RESISTANCE TRAINING

(Using your own body weight, dumbbells, barbells or machines during training)

• Reduces chance of an injury during training or sporting activity, if the muscle is strong it will help the body recover from an injury faster.
• Better muscle tone will help you look and feel better.
• It can help with postural development.
• The risk of developing Osteoporosis can be reduced by having stronger muscle, also stronger musculature system can help with balance

Always consult your Dr before beginning a new exercise regime and ensure you inform your fitness professional if you have any illness or previous injury as programs can be adapted.

Next time I hope to talk to about an easy exercise program you can do in your own home.

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