Benefits Of Strength Training For Women

Although strength training is a common activity that is associated mostly with males, women are starting to realize the benefits of it.  Strength training involves any kind of resistance training - usually using weights. Here are three benefits of strength training for women: 

1) Increased Metabolic Rate:  If weight loss is your number one priority, don’t just stick to the cardio.  It has been found that a consistent workout that is a mix of both cardio and strength training is the most effective in combating fat. Strength training increases your metabolic rate by increasing the calories you burn on a daily basis. 

2) Increasing and Restoring Bone Density: Women are prone to brittle bones and osteoporosis because many times we do not have enough calcium in our diets.  Strength training prevents and fights osteoporosis and gives you a good workout at the same time. Along with weight training, women should eat a diet rich in calcium (dairy products, soy, spinach) and/or take calcium supplements.

3) Increased Lean Muscle Mass:  Many women refrain from weight lifting due to the fact that they do not want to get bulky like men.  Fortunately, this will not be the case. Women do not have enough testosterone in their bodies to build that type of muscle mass. For women strength training will merely tone you up and get rid of excess fat in those problem areas.  Not only does more lean muscle mean a more toned body, but the more muscle you have the more fat is burned by doing absolutely nothing!

Women should engage in strength training activities about three times per week minimum to enjoy the benefits. It is also a great activity for older women due to its unique ability to keep the body young and prevent bone loss.