I actually started this blog a few days ago and then today I came across the article I mention below and felt compelled to finish my post.
So many females are afraid of lifting heavy weights for fear of getting too big or bulking up. They just want to ‘tone’ which I try to explain is not possible, but I think most people don’t believe me (and I know they don’t want to believe me). If you want to get lean and have ‘toned muscles’ you’ll need to do two things. Really focus on cleaning up your diet and start lifting heavier weights. Well…either that or figure out how to change your genetic make-up so that you are one of those naturally skinny ‘toned’ people. š
Here are 5 reasons that you should lift heavier weights:
- Since women do not possess large amounts of testosterone you are not going to get bulky.
- By only focusing on cardio and lifting light weights it’s not likely that you’ll obtain the body you desire. Muscles are built through resistance and if you’re using light weights, what are you resisting?!
- Increase your metabolism. More muscle translates to a faster metabolism. If you have less muscle it takes your body less energy to make it through the day. Build some muscle to burn extra calories just going about your daily routine. Additionally, after strength training workouts your metabolism will remain especially elevated for hours!
- More efficient workouts. You can lift 5 pound weights all day long and still never reach the point of exhaustion. Do the same workout with 20 pound weights and you’re likely to tire much sooner.
- PreventĀ osteoporosisĀ and bone density loss. Did you know that every year after age 30 you start losing muscle? (Sadly, I’m in that category now!)
Check out this article on strengthcoach.com called ‘Tone – is that a scientific term?‘. Next time someone tells me she (or he) wants to ‘tone’ her body I guess I can send her here to readĀ Mike Boyle’s answer. Usually I try to be a bit nicer and more gentle, but sometimes you just gotta tell it like it is.
This is so true! I’d like to add though that if you ARE lifting heavy and gaining weight at the same time, it’s because you are eating too much or eating the wrong things! This is rare though because look at all the guys in the gym that are trying so hard to get “bulky”. If its hard for them to, then it’s hard for us ladies too.
Great post!
Maria – great point! I have seen a lot of women blame getting bulky on the gym when it’s probably due to nutrition. You’re right…it’s hard for anyone to bulk up…male or female!