Weight Training for Women: Weight training has traditionally been a male
forte. But over the last few years, women have forayed into this activity with
enthusiasm and the results are showing.
Weight training is being increasingly recommended as one of the best ways
to build bone density and prevent osteoporosis and joint related problems.
It is now commonplace to see women lifting weights and working out in gyms
or in the privacy of their homes. Women have come out of the closet now in
respect of weight training.
Contrary to popular belief, weight training for women does not result in
huge, bulky muscles, instead weight training protects a woman and provides
her with a security shield after the loss of estrogen.
Women do produce testosterone, the hormone responsible for building huge
muscles, but not as much as men do. This is the reason why men tend to bulk
up by lifting weights while women do not. However, strength training works
for women by imparting strength to the body. The only way women can develop
bulky muscles is by useing steroids. So women can rest assured on that score.
Obesity leads to a host of medical problems like cancer, joint pain, menstrual
problems and high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that exercise prevents
against breast cancer. Cancer patients who are on remission also benefit from
exercise. Weight training for women who have a pre-disposition to cancer is
one way to keep breast cancer at bay. Women with breast cancer and undergoing
chemotherapy benefit from weight training also. Studies have reported improvement
in general health on account of training with weights.
Weight Training during and after menopause is strongly recommended. As long
as women have a menstrual cycle, estrogen the female hormone, produced by
the body, offers natural protection against heart related ailments and other
afflictions. Once a woman attains menopause, production of estrogen stops,
the body becomes susceptible to osteoporosis and heart disease.
Cholesterol content in the body increases and women tend to put on weight.
It is never too late to start on weight training and exercise program. Exercise
has proved to improve the life of women before and during menopause.
Regular walking along with weight training for women at home is enough for
a start. You can add to the weight training as and when you feel the improvement
in your body or you feel that it is time to enhance your exercise program.
Just start on the program and do whatever your body allows you to do without
any feeling of discomfort. The key to weight training is to stay committed
to the program and the results will speak for themselves.