16/01/2024
The stigma around ladies lifting weights has gone. If you have not incorporated strength training into your lifestyle then you should, and here are five of the many reasons why:
1. A Faster Metabolism - what does this mean? this means burning more calories at rest. We all know that fat loss is a case of burning more energy than we consume via what we eat and drink. Trying to create this situation through endless cardio is an inefficient approach. Focusing on improving your strength not only shapes your physique but it also increases your body's energy demands, improves your hormone profile, and more. The more energy you body demands at rest through building and maintaining lean muscle tissue, the more fat you burn.
2. Improved Hormone Profile - What does this mean? all hormones play a vital role within the body, but strength training can positively impact hormones such as testosterone and growth hormone. Typically associated more with men, these hormones are vital for women. Higher testosterone and growth hormone helps increase strength, shape your physique, speed up your metabolism, give you more daily energy, give you better sleep quality, and much more.
3. Functional Strength - What does this mean? the word 'functional' has become a bit of fitness jargon, but it's relevant. The function of a muscle is to generate as much force as is necessary for the task it is required to achieve. When you get on a plane, if you want to lift your carry-on case over your head to place in the compartment above your seated, the need a certain degree of strength to complete this task. Being stronger massively improves the quality of your life, especially as you age, and allows you to more comfortably complete the simplest of tasks.
4. Improved Mental Health and Mood - Very self-explanatory what this means. Strength training reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, improves energy levels, improves mood and improves overall brain function. The feeling of empowerment and achievement that comes from getting stronger is a significant mental and emotional uplift.
5. Improved Bone Health - Possibly the least appealing reason to lift weights, but future you will thank you for it. Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, especially post-menopause. Regular weight-bearing exercises help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Once you are over the age of 60, the statistics around the likelihood of breaking a bone if you fall, and the impact this has on life expectancy and quality of life, is scary. Strengthen those bones now and reap the rewards when you are older.
So, if you are not regularly lifting weights, doing body weight strength work, or any form of resistance training, start now. You will not regret it.
