Why A Women's Workout Program Should Include Weights

Before the industrial revolution, most people made their livings by the sweat of their brow and the work of their hands.  Nobody thought about "working out" other than taking a morning constitutional (walk), because they were too busy trying to survive.  But now that most of us make our livings sitting in a desk chair or standing in one place all day, a workout program becomes essential to maintaining a healthy and fit body.

One of the best ways to exercise is with weights.  This is also known as resistance training.   A good muscle workout routine will not only burn more calories for every minute you spend exercising, but will help to prevent a bunch of diseases, including osteoporosis.  Unfortunately, many women shy away from using weights.  Here is why every women's fitness routine should include some weights.

One of the big fears that many women have about using weights is that they will bulk up and look like men. I have a good friend that won't lift over 30 pounds for just this reason. What you should know though is that it is nearly impossible for women to bulk up like men. Even female bodybuilders can't really do it.

If you lift weights in a moderate amount, or use weights as part of an aroebic workout, then you will not bulk up. The reason is that women's bodies are built differently than men's. We have way less muscle mass and when we lift weights our muscles become lean and defined - not massive.

I believe that there are two essentials to every women's workout program.

1. Every woman needs a great sports bra or two.
2. Every woman should work out with weights.

The reason for number one is to protect your figure.  The reason for number two is because the benefits are huge.  When you add weights to your workout routine you will

• Burn more calories for every minute you use them
• Gain lean muscle mass which makes your body look great and burns extra calories even when you are not working out.
• Helps to prevent disease - especially osteoporosis
  

If you are looking to get fit or lose weight nothing will get you there faster then using weights when you workout.

There are several ways that you can use weights within your existing fitness routine. 

One of the easiest is to get a set of adjustable dumbbells, and do some simple weight training exercises at home.  The video above shows you some great tips for working on your arms.  A quick search of youtube will show you all of the weight training moves you could ever need.  If you go this route you may also want to get a simple weight bench to complete the exercises safely.  Most of these videos feature men, but don't be intimidated you can do these exercises too.

Another way is to go to the gym and workout.  Having a gym fitness program that includes weights can work in two different ways.  You can lift weights on the equipment or you can take a class that includes hand weights.  Both give you the benefits of resistance training.

Finally, you can get creative.  If you like to hike, then get a well balanced pack and take that along with you.  It will provide resistance and make your hike more effective.   If you like yoga, take a more challenging class.  In yoga and pilates you use your body for resistance and it can be very effective.

Working out with weights is an effective way to get in shape, but the most important thing is that you get moving and keep moving.  Have fun with your workouts and you will be a lot more likely to stick to them in the long run.

To your health!