What You Don’t Know About Strength Training for Women

You know that feeling when you try to open a jar of pickles and your weak arms just can't seem to do the job? Yeah, that's why building and maintaining muscle is super important for our overall health, especially as we age. But, a lot of women tend to skip out on strength training in their fitness routines because they think it's only for bodybuilders, athletes, or guys. That's a myth, my friend! Strength training is actually beneficial for everyone, no matter their age or fitness level. And that's why I'm dedicating this week's blog post to this topic!

1-Week Strength Challenge

If you are up for a mini-challenge, read all the way to the end for a free download. Let’s do this! You know I’m all about the challenges and the homework.

The goal for this week is to do at least three strength-training workouts. While weights are recommended, bodyweight or resistance band exercises are just as effective. Strength training not only helps build and strengthen muscles but also has several other health benefits.

Benefits of Strength Training for Women

Did you know that strength training can help improve bone density, which is essential in preventing osteoporosis? It can also help with weight management and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. It can also improve balance and coordination, which is especially beneficial for older adults.

Why does this matter to us women?

Let's talk about why strength training is super important for women. I know, I know - it might not sound like the most exciting thing in the world, but trust me, it's worth it!

First of all, did you know that women are more prone to developing osteoporosis? This is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, and it's especially common after menopause. But fear not! Strength training can actually help improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. How? Well, when we lift weights or do bodyweight exercises, we put stress on our bones. This stress signals our body to build stronger bones to handle the stress, resulting in increased bone density. This means that we're less likely to develop osteoporosis and less likely to suffer from fractures. Pretty cool, right?

Weight Management with Strength Training

But that's not all! Strength training can also help with weight management. When we build muscle, we increase our metabolism, which means that we burn more calories even when we're not working out. When you do strength training exercises you essentially destroy your muscle fibers.  While your muscle is recovering, it is burning energy to repair itself. That's how it works at least in the simplest terms. This can help with weight loss and weight management, which is super important in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

And let's not forget about balance and coordination! As we get older, our balance and coordination naturally decline, which can make us more prone to falls and injuries. But strength training can help improve these skills, making everyday activities safer and easier.

Healthy Joints and Better Range of Motion

Moreover, strength training for women can help reduce chronic pain in muscles and joints, which is a common problem for many adults.

How?

When we strength train, we not only build muscle but also improve our joint health. By strengthening the muscles around our joints, we can reduce the impact and strain on the joints themselves, which can lead to less pain and discomfort. Plus, strength training helps improve flexibility and range of motion, which can also help alleviate pain.

Let me give you an example. Meet Jane, a woman in her 40s who had been experiencing chronic pain in her knees for years. She had tried everything from pain medication to physical therapy, but nothing seemed to work. One day, a friend suggested she try strength training to help alleviate the pain.

At first, Jane was hesitant. She thought lifting weights would only make her pain worse. But she decided to give it a try and started incorporating strength training into her exercise routine. Within a few weeks, she started to notice a significant improvement in her knee pain. She was able to move more freely and with less discomfort. After a few months of consistent strength training, her knee pain was virtually gone.

So, if you're dealing with chronic pain in your muscles and joints, consider incorporating strength training into your exercise routine.

More Than Physical Strength

But wait, there's more! Strength training has been linked to better brain health, as it can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.

Not only does strength training have numerous physical benefits, but it can also have a positive impact on our mental health. Feeling strong and capable can increase confidence and self-esteem, and it just feels good to accomplish a challenging workout.

Feeling physically strong can also translate to feeling mentally strong. When we feel capable and confident in our physical abilities, it can translate to feeling more confident in other areas of our lives as well.

For example, let's say you're a busy mom who feels like she can't keep up with her kids. Adding strength training to your routine can help you feel physically stronger, which can give you the energy and confidence to keep up with your kids and tackle other challenges in your life.

Strength training can also be a great stress reliever. When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. So, after a challenging strength training workout, not only will you feel physically stronger, but you'll also feel more relaxed and calm.

Start Strength Training Today

If you're looking for more guidance and resources on strength training, you're in luck. My Bodyweight Strength Training 4-Week Program provides a comprehensive guide on building muscle, including workout plans and nutrition tips.

And for this week's challenge, download this free ebook with a workout plan to get you started. 

So, are you up for the challenge? Let me know in the comments if you'll be joining us in building strength this week.

Remember, it's never too late to start and reap the benefits of strength training.

Are you looking for a community of like-minded women who are passionate about fitness and wellness? Join our Women's Fitness Support Facebook group and let's conquer our health goals together!