Should I lift weights as a woman?

bry_all01 · November 2011

taso42 · November 2011

I would prefer if one of MFP's wonderful female lifters would answer, but I'll take a stab -

Lifting weights is good for virtually everyone. In a calorie deficit, lifting weights, and proper nutrition will help preserve muscle mass. In a calorie surplus, lifting weights will help build lean muscle.

The number one concern many women have is that they don't want to "bulk up", so they avoid lifting heavy weights. This is an absolutely unfounded concern. Without performance enhancing drugs it is unlikely or impossible that you will bulk up as a woman.

Check out this thread for a nice video of real women lifting heavy weights. Look at their bodies. Do they look "bulky"?

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/328354-women-strength-training-for-real

stroutman81 · November 2011

Absolutely.

For a lot of reasons. But in terms of looking good nekkid, it's probably the most important thing you can do. Which is why I'm quick to remind folks that, assuming you're not carrying loads of excess fat, I would definitely prioritize resistance training over metabolic work.

And definitely check out the link in the above post.

SMarie10 · November 2011

I think you should only lift weights is you want to improve the way you look and feel about yourself. Be warned, lifting weights is addictive and will cause your buns to tone up, your flexibility to improve, and you will start checking out your reflection in the mirror.

Based on your avatar, I have a feeling that the choice for you to lift weights isn't that much of a stretch.

All the information I've read on the subject suggests that the women, like me that are beyond 40 can greatly benefit from weight lifting.

My current routine is 45 min of weight lifting 3-4 times a week. I could easily do more because it really is fun!

bry_all01 · November 2011

I personally lift weights and only asked, because it is one of those all too often asked questions that many people I feel are misinformed about. There have been several women who say they don't or won't because they are afraid they are going to look like a man. Do I look like a man? Nope.

taryn_perry · November 2011

Absolutely woman should lift weights, and to top that, not be afraid to LIFT HEAVY! As females, we generally won't bulk up, just lean out. Well, so long as you couple that with a clean diet!

sunnyzephyr · November 2011

Heck yes! Those women need to realize that lifting weight doesn't just bulk you up, it tones and tightens. Plus, the more muscle you have, the more calories your body burns by itself!