Strength Train Your Way To Success

Why Strength Training Should Be A Part Of Every Woman’s Workout

As a woman more than halfway through her thirties, my body has started to need some extra love and support. I have spent most of my life mainly focused on cardiovascular activity, but I failed to incorporate strength training, and lately, it has caught up with me—big time. I hit extreme fatigue from merely doing chores around the house, and a couple loads of laundry left my body aching and needing to lie down. I knew it was time to make some major changes.

As women (and men), we do a significant amount of activity a day we may not think twice about. We are lifting children, bending over the kitchen sink, carrying groceries, doing loads of laundry, and for some of us, sitting in front of a computer. Even those with mainly sedentary occupations can still reap the rewards from consistent strength training, as weak muscles can lead to poor posture. Strength training is one of your best defenses at fighting back against overuse and injury.

Although I am not a fitness guru or personal trainer, I want to invite all the women in my life to begin to think about strength training if nothing more than to prevent injury, fight off bone loss and osteoporosis. Let us also not forget that as we age, falls and trips are more likely. Weak muscles can mean poor balance.

Why Incorporate Strength Training?

· Shed body fat. Creating more lean muscle will help you burn off more calories even as you sit

· Strengthen joints

· Fight back against osteoporosis

· Improve core strength and prevent back pain

· Increase your stability and balance

Three tips for your success:

· Start small. Even 5 minutes of exercise can set the tone for the day. Don’t worry about trying to work out for 45 minutes. Instead, work to create the habit and mindset. If you need to start with one squat or one push-up, so be it

· Begin by using your bodyweight: think push-ups, sit-ups, planks, and squats

· Keep it simple and use basic equipment such as light weights, resistance bands, and ankle weights

Other important things to know:

· Get in the know. Do your research to find what type of strength training will suit you best depending on your fitness level and age

· Speak with a trainer, physical therapist, or other professional to help you

· Focus on proper form to prevent injury

· Before getting started, make sure to speak with your doctor

Remember, it is never too late to begin. Any age is a good age to strengthen your body.