ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE
Article Published on: 15 MAY 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
Strength training, also known as resistance training or weight lifting, is a type of exercise that involves using resistance to build and strengthen muscles. Although many women may think that strength training is only for men, it’s actually an excellent form of exercise for women as well. Here are five benefits of strength training for women.
Builds and Tones Muscle
One of the most significant benefits of strength training for women is that it helps build and tone muscle. Building muscle not only gives you a leaner, more toned appearance but also helps you burn more calories throughout the day.
Women may also be hesitant to strength train because they fear getting too bulky or looking too masculine. However, this fear is unfounded. Women have lower levels of testosterone than men, which means they won’t develop bulky muscles unless they’re taking supplements or steroids. Instead, women who strength train will achieve a lean and toned physique that’s both attractive and healthy.
Increases Bone Density
As women age, they’re at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Strength training can help prevent osteoporosis by increasing bone density, which makes bones stronger and less likely to fracture.
In fact, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that strength training was more effective at increasing bone density in postmenopausal women than traditional low-impact exercises such as walking or jogging. By adding strength training to your exercise routine, you can help protect your bones and reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.
Boosts Metabolism
Strength training is an excellent way to boost your metabolism, which can help you burn more calories throughout the day. When you strength train, you create small tears in your muscle fibers. Your body then repairs these tears, which require energy and causes your metabolism to increase.
Additionally, as you build muscle, your body requires more energy to maintain it. This means that even when you’re at rest, your body will burn more calories than it would if you had less muscle mass. By adding strength training to your exercise routine, you can help boost your metabolism and burn more calories throughout the day.
Improves Posture and Balance
Many women spend a significant portion of their day sitting at a desk or hunching over a computer, which can lead to poor posture and back pain. Strength training can help improve posture by strengthening the muscles in your back, shoulders, and core.
Additionally, strength training can help improve balance by strengthening the muscles in your legs and hips. This is particularly important for older women who may be at an increased risk of falling and injuring themselves.
