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Hey there, my Gen Z comrades! It’s your favourite online agony aunt, Sophie. Today, we’re going to talk about something that has been a huge part of my life recently – weight training! Now before you say anything, yes, I did swap my Netflix and chill evenings for sweat and steel. And no, I haven’t morphed into the She-Hulk (yet!).
There are some stereotypes about weight training that have been doing the rounds for years. One of the most common ones is that it’s only for men or women who want to bulk up. Let me tell you right now; this is as far from the truth as saying avocado toast isn’t a staple in our Gen Z diet.
The Truth About Weight Training
Weight training isn’t just about building muscle mass. It’s a comprehensive way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. It can help you lose fat, increase your bone density, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
I know it can be intimidating walking into a gym full of grunting macho men lifting weights heavier than a small car (okay maybe not that heavy). But once you get past this initial fear and start lifting some weights yourself, trust me; the benefits are worth it!
Burn More Calories with Weights
Did you know that weight training can actually burn more calories than cardio? Yes, ladies! You heard right. When we lift weights, we build lean muscle mass which burns calories even when we’re just sitting on the couch scrolling through Instagram (guilty!). This process is known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC).
Increase Bone Density
Weight training isn’t just good for your muscles; it’s also beneficial for your bones. It increases bone density, which can help protect against osteoporosis – a condition that affects many women as they age.
Boost Mental Health
Anyone who has ever done any form of exercise knows that it’s not just your body that benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters. But weight training takes this one step further. The focus and concentration required to lift weights can be meditative and helps reduce stress and anxiety.
Improve Body Composition
If you’re like me and love a good foodie post on Instagram, then weight training could be your new best friend. It helps improve body composition by reducing fat mass and increasing lean muscle mass. This doesn’t mean you’ll bulk up like a bodybuilder (unless you want to), but rather develop toned muscles and curves in all the right places.
Empowerment
Last but not least, there is something incredibly empowering about being able to lift heavy things. It’s a physical demonstration of your strength – both literal and metaphorical – that can give you a serious confidence boost.
I remember the first time I deadlifted my own bodyweight; I felt like Wonder Woman! And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to feel like an Amazonian warrior?
Final Thoughts
The world of weights is not reserved for men alone; it is ripe with benefits for us women too! So next time you’re at the gym, don’t shy away from the weight section. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.
I hope this article has helped debunk some myths around weight training for women and ignited some curiosity in you. So, go ahead, give it a try! Who knows, you might just find your new passion.
And remember, strong is the new sexy!
