Women & Strength Training: Why do it?

Even though there has been so much information advocating strength training and women, there still are a lot of questions and misinformation out there.

We do know that strength training increases LBM (lean body mass) which is a good thing as lean body mass is metabolically active and requires nutrients and calories to sustain itself, so metabolism increases. However, many women equate that with big muscles. Wrong! First of all MOST women don't have enough testoterone to produce large muscles and secondly it takes so much hard work and lots of regimented dieting to do that! As a former competitive (natural) bodybuilder, I had to workout with very heavy weights and follow a strict diet to look the way I did then. It wasn't easy. I don't look like this now (see above) as like everything else training specificity is just that. I now train for sport performance, overall bone density and core strength and fitness. Yes, genetics play a big role in how much muscle you can gain but most women just arn't going to "bulk up" with a well balanced weight training routine. On the contrary, just shape up!

Weight training combined with cardiovascular activity and a sound eating program will have greater results than just a cardiovascular program itself.

Not only will strength training help you get leaner, it can aid with postural concerns, and plays an important role for osteoporosis prevention. But the best part is being strong enough to not have to ask for help when you need to move a heavy object :)

If you'd like more information regarding setting up a strength training routine consider hiring a certified Personal Trainer/Strength coach. There are many resources provided by the National certifying agencies that have lists of qualified trainers. www.acefitness.org and www.nsca-lift.org both have trainer locator services on their websites.

If you have any questions feel free to email me: nfarzan@mindspring.com