Unleash Your Inner Strength: Weight Training for Women
It’s time to bust the myths behind weight lifting for women. Many females may shy away from strength training because they fear unwanted “bulkiness” or believe it’s a male-dominated activity. However, incorporating strength training into your routine is one of the most effective ways to boost your overall well-being. Through greater endurance, higher metabolism and improved mental wellness, weight lifting can make you feel empowered and healthier than ever. Here are just some of the ways strength training can benefit women.
Fights against bone thinning and osteoporosis
Resistance exercises common in strength training help to activate bone-forming cells, leading to stronger bones. Since women are more at risk for bone thinning and osteoporosis as they age, continuing a regimen of strength training can protect your bones for the long term.
Prepares your body for a healthier pregnancy
During childbearing years, weight training can prepare your body to better deal with pregnancy, labor and postpartum recovery. It can help relieve everything from fatigue and postpartum depression to gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Lowers your risk of chronic illness
Adding weight lifting to your routine can prevent chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. It can also reduce the signs and symptoms of conditions like depression, arthritis and obesity.
Keeps your body strong during menopause
During menopause, your body’s muscle mass decreases and weight gain is common. Strength training can combat both of these things. Keeping your muscles strong will help boost your metabolism to fight against weight gain and maintain muscle mass.
Reduces your risk of age-related cognitive decline
Studies have shown that resistance and weight training can protect against cognitive decline by preventing inflammation and degeneration in and around the brain. Strength training can also help with coordination and balance, which all link back to the brain.
Boosts self-esteem
The physical strength that comes from weight lifting often increases feelings of confidence and self-worth. Studies even show that there is a strong connection between strength training and self-esteem in girls aged 10 to 16 years.
No matter what stage of life you are in, weight training can be a great solution to amping up your confidence and your physical health. And BCBS FEP is here to help. Try out Daily Habits to keep your goals on track and check out our weight management resources to create a plan tailored to your needs.
Don’t let those strength training myths get in your way. Pick up some weights and get pumping!
Sources:
https://www.uhhospitals.org/blog/articles/2024/04/the-unique-benefits-of-strength-training-for-women
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10017453/
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