Strength Training for Beginners
Strength training is a way of exercising using
resistance in the form of free weights (dumbbells) or fixed weights
(barbells or machine weights), to improve strength and endurance.
A lot of beginners, especially women, fear they will become "bulky" by
using weights so opt to avoid them. But this isn't the case at all! Most
women tend to have lower levels of muscle mass than men
due to having lower testosterone levels. So it would take far more hard
work and dedication to put on extreme levels of muscle mass that you see
in bodybuilders.
If you are looking to 'lose weight' and opt for strength training, one
thing you may find is that you actually stay the same weight on the
scale or even gain a few pounds. But you're in fact "slimmer" and fit
into smaller sized clothing, achieving a more toned look. This is
because you've decreased your body fat percentage and replaced that with
muscle mass which is more dense.
Benefits of Strength Training:
- Improves posture
- Decreases risk of injury
- Increases metabolism
- Boosts bone density
- Improves sleep
- Increases strength
- Improves mental well-being
- It's fun!