Weight Training for Women: How NOT To Overdo It

It’s perfectly safe and effective for women to have a weight training routine. And I say that because there are a lot of misconceptions amongst women about weight training, for women. I will be the first to concede that weight training for women differs from weight training for men, and that’s why it’s important to learn how to do it the right way so that you can get the most out of your workout.

The key to weight training—that makes it different from cardio training—is resistance. As long as you’re providing resistance to your target area, you’re giving your muscles the burn that they deserve.

That doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym, only to leave an hour later looking like a balloon. (All pumped up)

While it’s recommended that you frequent a local gym or have a trainer teach you the basics, it’s not necessary. There are plenty of weight training guides for women out there, as well as entire sections in sporting goods stores, dedicated to weight training for women.

Keep in mind that today’s weight training is much different than what you’ve seen in the movies or on TV. Gone are the days of the sweaty gyms and bare bones workouts.

You won’t be crushing your spine on the floor doing crunches anymore. You can use an exercise ball to soften the hard surfaces, roll out cushioned mats on the floor, and even color-coordinate your dumbbells.

As long as you start slowly, build gradually, and give your body a chance to rest between workouts, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that fit, toned body that is the envy of every women—young and old. Starting slowly doesn’t necessarily mean that you only use the lightest weights possible.

So many women fear weight training, because they’re afraid that they’re gong to wind up looking like those boob-less, leathery, muscle bound ladies you see on ESPN. Understand this: those ladies are world-class athletes.

And just as it’s difficult for the average man to achieve that ever-elusive Mr. Universe physique, so to is it for the average woman to achieve the look of a professional female bodybuilder.

The professionals have done specific, intensive training, and used hardcore supplements to develop their bodies. It takes a lot of work to change your body like that; so don’t worry because you won’t be using their routine.

Using heavy weights is going to get your body toned and in shape faster than lightweights. That’s the only difference. So, if you want to prolong your weight training and you’ve got the patience of Job, then use lightweights.

If you want to succeed and achieve the desired result quicker, then use heavier weights. (Just don’t take a bunch of supplements and lift for 10 hours a day).

A good way to determine what weight is right for you is to try out different ones. Ideally, you want to start with a weight that you can lift between eight and 10 times. When you can lift that weight with no problem at all, it’s time to move up to a higher weight.

However, you can’t go from female couch potato to Buffy the hot body fitness model overnight. You also have to lose the fat you’re carrying around, so your muscles have a chance to show off all their hard work.

Work hard and the results will speak volumes on your behalf.