WEIGHT EXERCISES FOR WOMEN

One of the big myths in the gym is that women should stick to cardio machines and stay away weight exercises, especially free weights.

Actually free weights exercises are often better for women.

Here are some very good reasons for using weight exercises for women.

Increasing your strength.  Research studies conclude that even moderate weight exercises can increase a woman's strength by 30 to 50 percent. Research also shows that women can develop their strength at the same rate as men.

Losing Body Fat. Studies found that the average woman who strength trains two to three times a week for two months will gain nearly two pounds of muscle and will lose 3.5 pounds of fat. As your lean muscle increases so does your resting metabolism, and you burn more calories.

Gain Strength Without Bulk. Unlike men, women don't gain size from strength training exercises. You will develop muscle tone and definition.

Decrease Your Risk Of Osteoporosis. Weight training for women can increase spinal bone mineral density by 13 percent in six months. This plus an adequate amount of calcium, can be a women's best defence against osteoporosis.

Improve Your Athletic Performance. Strength training has been shown to improve overall performance as well as decrease the risk of injury.

Reduce Your Risk Of Injury, Back Pain and Arthritis. Weight Exercises for women  not only build stronger muscles, but also build stronger connective tissues and increase joint stability. Studies have indicated that weight training can ease the pain of osteoarthritis and strengthen joints.

Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease. Weight training exercises can improve cardiovascular health, lower LDL cholesterol, increase HDL cholesterol and lower blood pressure.

Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes. Weight training may improve the way the body processes sugar, reducing the risk of diabetes. Weight training can increase glucose utilization in the body by 23 percent in four months.

Improve Your Attitude and Fight Depression. One study found that 10 weeks of strength training reduced clinical depression symptoms more successfully than counselling did.

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