How did strength training change your weight/body?

76chelyn

I have only been sticking to cardio. I’m intimidated by weights and strength training machines. I don’t know why!?!
I’m 5ft 0 in Started at 145 lbs want to get to 110 currently at 131
40 year old female

quiksylver296

It did this. (Counterclockwise)

brendanwhite84

Definite improvements in my body composition that endurance sports can't match - my 'off-season weightlifter' body composition looks harder and better-defined than my 'triathlon season' body (although I'm hoping to retain my better composition in next year's tri season due to training less intensely for smaller races).

I only do heavy compound lifts with free weights, and I'd recommend them with the appropriate preparations.

cwolfman13

It gave me a fitness/athletic look rather than just being "skinny"...IMO, "skinny" isn't a particularly great look...

tulips_and_tea

Hit the weights ASAP! Well, not without proper training first and getting the techniques correct so as to not injure yourself. If possible, hire a personal trainer (one you've evaluated and made sure they were credible) to teach you proper movements one-on-one.

Lifting not only changed my body but also my mind set. When doing cardio only I was convinced I was a "pear shape". Nope, Not after lifting regularly and progressively. I don't even believe in those body-shape terms anymore.

estherdragonbat

I find that my midsection feels 'tighter' even if there's no visible muscle. The big changes have been in my arms and shoulders (it appears that I have deltoids) and my legs. There's definite muscle definition.

And I don't actually lift heavy. At this point, the most I pick up is 24lbs (2 x 12-lb dumbbells). I've worked my way up from 3-5lbs over the last six months or so.

I bought a book that gives great step-by-step progressive exercises for each muscle/muscle group, includes tons of full-color photos, and three sample workouts. I've mostly been using that.

76chelyn

Thank you! I hope the find a good personal trainer. I have a YMCA membership. Should I find someone outside of my gym or use one of their personal trainers?

Thehardmakesitworthit

I love what weightlifting has done to my body. I still have 30 pounds to lose but when I view myself ....all my parts look strong. Not muscular, but strong and stable. My mindset is the biggest change...I no longer view the scale as my only tool. In fact, I rely on it the least these days.

mmapags

Nothing for weight loss except contributed to my calorie deficit (same as all exercise). Improved my look, balance, posture and functionality.

bebeisfit

If you're looking for inspiration.. check out this thread. These women are killing it!
http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/1120789/females-only-lifting-weight-training-results#latest

batorkin

I feel strength training is more important than cardio/exercise. It goes Diet >>>>> Lifting > Exercise for me.

You should do all three for best results. It will give you the most tone, and help prevent skinny fat/loose skin because your retained muscles will keep the skin much much tighter. I feel like you peak really quickly with cardio, after you can do 40 minutes of it, I think it's better to switch to interval training and get that heart rate up to 90% in short bursts.