We often find ourselves amazed at how many women are reluctant to pick up weights, as if a 5 KG dumbbell will suddenly have them looking like this…
Or perhaps even this….
However, that is not quite how it works. Bodybuilders of any sort – male or female, real or imaginary have to put in a huge amount of work to get them looking ripped. Working day and night they diligently lift weights around the size of your average elephant, eat a carefully controlled diet that actually includes an excess of the right sorts of calories and, perhaps most importantly, really really want to look like the way they do. Gaining these sorts of muscles involves an inordinate amount of planning, dedication and ruddy hard work – and is even more difficult for women who have far less testosterone than men, which makes it harder for them to gain muscle.
Basically, you’ve got to not only will it but work for it to achieve this particular dream. But, for the majority of our clients who hope to lose weight or tone up lifting weights is hugely beneficial.
1. Increased metabolism
There are many many reasons why you should be lifting, but we know that for the majority of our clients this will be the most important. Because lifting weights burns fat! The more muscle a woman has, the more calories she will burn at rest. So, basically, muscles speed up your metabolism, resulting in more effective fat loss.
2. Bone density
This is a shout out to our more mature clients who may naturally shy away from lifting weights. Because lifting weights is not only good for your outside appearance, but for your insides. As we get older women are likely to lose bone density which can lead to osteoporosis. However, resistance training increases bone density which can help prevent this condition. Which is why lifting is especially advisable for women over 40.
3. Active daily living
Lifting weights will naturally increase your stamina, health and general fitness levels. You will find that this will naturally overflow into your daily life and everyday tasks should seem that bit easier – that arduous Tesco shop should now seems far easier, oh happy days.
4.Toning up
Undoubtedly, lifting will help you tone up – helping you create lean muscles in the right place. The type of body favoured by celebrities such as say…Cameron Diaz or Ellie Golding – both of whom look pretty frickin good to us.
5. Skinny fat
When exercising it is important to do a variety of workouts to help shape your body. If you are a cardio bunny – spending hours on the treadmill you can become what’s known as “skinny fat.” A slightly odd term – it essentially refers to women who are slim to look at but have a higher percentage of body fat. The answer to this is to start lifting and watch your body composition change.
6. Muscle wastage
As we get older, our bodies begin to lose muscle so it is vital that we continue to lift, to maintain muscle mass and tone. It is also important to eat lots of lean protein to help repair and grow muscles.
If you would like to discuss more about lifting weights feel free to give us a call on 07815 209 112 or drop us an email on info@ace-lifestyle.com
