Undoubtedly, you’ve been exposed to myths about how women should or shouldn’t engage in strength training.
Each of the following myths has deterred women from gaining the benefits of maintaining a great strength-training program.
Myth 1: If You Lift, You’ll Get Bulky
We’ve all heard about how the gorgeous Gwyneth Paltrow doesn’t lift anything above 3 pounds during her workout routine. The idea is that she wants to maintain long, lean muscles instead of building bulk.
However, you can lift heavier weights without gaining bulky muscles. Lifting weights will make you feel strong and empowered as you build healthy muscles. Picking up heavier weights will help you to achieve a toned look because you’ll burn off the fat over your muscle.
Myth 2: Cardio Is Essential for Weight Loss
Although cardio can certainly be an effective tool for weight loss, it isn’t the only tool in your arsenal. If you don’t really enjoy cardio, you can use strength training to help you lose weight as well.
Strength training causes your muscles to break down and rebuild, which requires your body to expend energy and burn calories.
Don’t forget that diet is actually the most important factor in weight loss. You may not be able to meet all of your weight loss goals solely through diet change, but adjusting your diet can cause a huge different in your weight.