Being a personal trainer, one of the biggest complaints I have received (mostly from women) is that they avoid lifting weights because "it will make me bulky." I am not sure where this crazy idea originated but it has spread like wildfire and in my opinion, this could not be further from the truth. If you want to change your body composition, weight lifting is required (weights, resistance bands or body weight). Mixing in weight lifting with your exercise routine will do wonders for your health! I remind clients that the women they see lifting weights who have what they would describe as a 'bulky' appearance, are doing very specific things to look that way. Lifting weights, even heavy ones, will not turn you into a body builder, promise. In fact, adding weights instead of just doing cardio, has endless benefits:
- Increasing bone strength and density
- Lowering risk for Osteoporosis
- Injury prevention
- Posture improvement
- Pain reduction
- Weight loss and fat loss
- Stress relief and mood enhancement
- Heart health
Opposite from solely doing cardio, weight lifting actually keeps your metabolism running for 24-48 hours after the workout; so you are still reaping your hard work even after your workout is complete, how cool is that?! When you finish a cardio workout, undoubtedly, you are burning calories while on the elliptical or treadmill, but as soon as you finish so does the calorie burn. This is why a mix of the two components is so important.
Live Well!
Coach Kenna, MS
Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Worksite Wellness Coordinator