Strength Training for Women: Debunking Myths That Block Opportunity
I was reading this article and realized how important this is and I have to share with you…
Strength Training for Women: Debunking Myths That Block Opportunity
In Brief: Traditional gender roles and differences in absolute strength have resulted in misconceived approaches to strength training for women. Male physiology, more than hormones, explains men’s superior absolute strength.
When other measures of strength are used, such as strength relative to cross-sectional area of muscle, the strength of men and women is nearly equal.
Women who practice the same well-designed strength training programs as men benefit from bone and soft-tissue modeling, increased lean body mass, decreased fat, and enhanced self-confidence.
Table 1. Strength Training Benefits for Women*
* Enhanced bone modeling to increase bone strength and reduce the risk of osteoporosis
* Stronger connective tissues to increase joint stability and help prevent injury
* Increased functional strength for sports and daily activity
* Increased lean body mass and decreased nonfunctional body fat
* Higher metabolic rate because of an increase in muscle and a decrease in fat
* Improved self-esteem and confidence
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