Even though the benefits of resistance training for women are numerous, many women strictly stick to cardio workouts and avoid weight training altogether. Resistance training can be done in a number of ways, including with free weights, weight machines, or resistance bands; it is not always necessary to go to the gym since many of these exercises can be performed at home. Some of the benefits of resistance training for women include weight loss and an increase in overall strength and athletic ability. In addition, this type of exercise helps to increase bone density, which can help to prevent osteoporosis, and can also help to strengthen the heart and prevent heart disease and diabetes.
One of the most common misconceptions surrounding resistance training for women is that it will cause women to gain a great deal of muscle mass that will look bulky. This is simply not the case. Instead, strength training helps to improve muscle tone and strength, but does not cause women to bulk up. It can actually help to promote weight loss and give the body a more slim, toned appearance than cardio work alone can do.
Women who practice resistance training are also stronger overall, and tend to display better athletic abilities, which is beneficial for everyday life, but can also help to prevent injuries from actions such as bending and lifting. A workout regimen that includes aerobic exercise as well as strength training gives the body a much more complete workout and can help to boost the metabolism. For women who enjoy playing sports, or are focused on a particular activity such as distance running, resistance training can give an substantial boost in performance.
Health benefits may be found in resistance training for women, as well. Weight bearing exercises help to increase bone density, which can help to prevent osteoporosis and fractures that can occur from falls. In addition, this type of exercise helps to strengthen the heart, and may help prevent cardiovascular disease. Any physical activity that helps to promote weight loss can also help to prevent diabetes. Exercise can also help to boost the mood, and may help to relieve mild to moderate depression when combined with an overall healthy lifestyle. For all these reasons and others, resistance training for women is an excellent and very beneficial part of any regular exercise routine.
