The Surprising Benefits of Lifting Weights For Women

Ladies, let’s talk weights. Firstly, there are some common misconceptions out there that weightlifting will automatically make you bulky — and that’s simply not true! So, we’re here to set the record straight. Forget the fear of bulking up! Instead, embrace the benefits that lifting weights can bring to your female fitness journey. While cardio workouts have their place, incorporating strength training into your routine offers a whole new world of advantages that extend far beyond sculpting your muscles. From improved hormone balance to increased metabolism and enhanced bone health, weightlifting has the power to transform your body — and even your mind! So, grab those dumbbells and get ready to discover the remarkable benefits of weightlifting for women.

Strength Training vs. Cardio: Which is Better For Hormone Balance in Women?

Don’t get us wrong — cardio exercise can do so much good for the body. But, when it comes to supporting better hormone balance in women, strength training takes the spotlight. While cardio workouts have their place in cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and endurance, cardio alone may not provide the same hormonal benefits as weightlifting.

Unlike cardio exercises, strength training engages your muscles and exerts a greater demand on your body. This physical stress triggers a cascade of hormonal responses that can positively influence hormone balance!

When it comes to the benefits of weightlifting for women, here are some key ways strength training helps to balance hormones:

Balanced Estrogen

One of the primary hormones affected is estrogen, a hormone that plays a crucial role in a woman’s reproductive health and overall well-being. Weightlifting has been shown to regulate estrogen levels, promoting a healthier balance and potentially alleviating symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

Strength training has also been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity. Responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, improved sensitivity means your body can use insulin more effectively. When balanced, there’s a reduced risk of insulin resistance and related hormonal issues!

The Top Benefits of Weight Training for Women

Increased Metabolic Rate

Wondering how to rev your metabolism? It may be as simple as picking up those weights! One of the most significant benefits of weightlifting for women is the metabolic boost it provides. While cardio is great for burning calories during exercise, strength training helps build lean muscle mass, which in turn, elevates the metabolic rate — even at rest!

This is especially important for women, considering our metabolic rate tends to slow down as we age. When our metabolism is slow, this can lead to weight gain, decreased energy levels, and dips in mood. The good news? Incorporating weightlifting into a fitness routine can counteract this natural decline by preserving and building muscle, resulting in increased calorie burn and improved body composition.

Improved Body Composition

Speaking of body composition, weightlifting helps women achieve a more sculpted and toned physique. And contrary to the fear of “bulking up,” it’s actually quite difficult for women to gain significant muscle mass without specific training and nutrition regimens. How is this so? Well, men have a higher natural capacity for muscle growth due to higher testosterone levels. Women, on the other hand, typically have lower levels of this hormone. So, rather than get bulky, weightlifting actually helps women develop lean muscle, leading to a more defined and toned appearance!

Enhanced Bone Health

Another win for us ladies is the improved bone health that comes as a result of weight training. And considering osteoporosis and bone density loss are common concerns for women, maintaining and improving bone health is a major benefit of weight lifting for women. The stress placed on the bones during weight-bearing exercise helps stimulate the production of new bone tissue, ultimately increasing bone density. This reduces the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, promoting long-term bone strength and overall well-being.

Reduced Health Risks

Linked to a reduced risk of various chronic conditions prevalent in women, why wouldn’t you want to add weight lifting to your exercise regime? In fact, when compared to women who reported no strength training or no exercise at all, women engaging in strength training exercise had a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem

Rather than fixating on shrinking our bodies, shifting the focus to getting stronger can be incredibly transformative for us women. As you embrace your power with weight lifting and see improvements in your physical strength, you may notice increased mental strength too, with increased self-confidence, self-esteem, and even improved body image!

Reduced Stress and Improved Mood

And when it comes to busting stress, and boosting mood, the research is clear — weightlifting can help. That’s right, while strengthening your body, you can help strengthen your mind! This is partly due to the feel-good endorphins released during exercise, which can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

Improved Sleep

Based on research, another benefit of lifting weights for women is its ability to help support sleep quality and duration. In fact, recent 2022 research suggests it may be even more effective than aerobic exercise.

Weight Lifting For Women: Strengthen Your Mind & Body

From hormone balance and increased metabolic rate to improved bone health and body composition, weightlifting provides a wide range of benefits for women. Best of all, not only does it enhance physical strength and fitness, but it also supports mental well-being, sleep quality, and mood regulation. So, grab those weights and get started with resistance training! Not sure where to get started? Head to the FitOn app and browse our workout library! With a range of strength classes, challenges, and courses, there’s something for everyone.