Why Women Need More Muscle

There is this fallacy that if a woman lifts weights she will become some muscle-bound male looking weirdo. It frightens off many women from strength training when they have weight loss and fitness goals which is unfortunate because having muscle is vital to making a gal look good.

One pound of muscle weighs the same amount as one pound of fat.

But they don't look the same, take up the same amount of space, burn calories the same, or make the skin above them look the same. Muscle rocks.

By strength training, we allow our bodies to strengthen bones, we burn more calories (hello, metabolism!), and we take up less space. This means that we get to buy clothes that are smaller in size even if we don't see the numbers on the scale change.

So, the next time you fear those dumbbells remember that you want to fight osteoporosis, look good in your shorts, and be all kinds of strong.

QUESTION: What do you to reach/maintain your fitness goals?

7 comments:

Paige @ Little Nostalgia said...

I used to lift small hand weights when I played sports in high school. I don't have them anymore, but I still do push-ups.

BeadedTail said...

I work out with weights and even though the scale doesn't decrease, my clothes fit better so I'm all for strength training!

Natashalh said...

I personally don't like weights because I prefer body weight exercises, but I totally agree with you!

Duni said...

I wish I could build up some muscle to feel stronger. My physician suggested "power yoga". Not sure I have the stamina for that though...

pasqueflower said...

My cousin the weight loss coach has mentioned weights. I'm still trying to keep up with daily walks for now, but I'm sure I should look into some sort of weight training.

storybeader said...

yes, those women look in good shape. I don't do much - need to work on my foot repair more than anything else... {:-D

Splendid Little Stars said...

I've been lifting weights for many years. It helps to keep my body in alignment--muscles keep bones in the correct position.
Feeling good is the best motivator.