First of all, yes, women can do it, too.
Weightlifting has turned into one of my favorite hobbies and lifestyle choices. My younger self really didn’t know what was coming for her! As a woman, I did not grow up thinking that weightlifting was even an option for me, let alone something that I could incorporate into my workout routine. I love it, and it makes me feel like I can do anything.
I have always been health focused, but I have gone through my fair share of disordered habits and body image problems. Weightlifting has totally transformed the way I view myself, my gender, my confidence, and simply just the way my body looks!
I was not very strong before I started weightlifting, and I had a very difficult journey to get where I am today. I have struggles with neck and back issues (including adult scoliosis) for almost 10 years now after playing the violin for over 13 years. It was difficult to find my groove with weightlifting after living with this extensive pain, but it has improved my posture and quality of life immensely!
My life would not be the same without weightlifting.
If you are on a health journey of your own, or even if you struggle with anxiety and stress as a young professional like I do, I think you would greatly benefit from incorporating weightlifting into your workout routine. I am a big believer in moving your body in any way that you feel is enjoyable to you. That is the most important thing here. I do not do much cardio anymore because I do not enjoy it, but I try to get it in once or twice a week because it is still very healthy for your heart and body overall.
You don’t need to weight lift everyday or every single time you workout like I do! (Unfortunately, I have already joined the club of crazy obsessed gym people.) You can split up your workouts in any way you choose. At the end of the day, I think it is great to add weightlifting somewhere to your workout routine.
If you are considering trying out weightlifting, here are my top 7 reasons why you should incorporate weightlifting into your workout routine!
1) Weightlifting is amazing for stress and anxiety management.
I have struggled with stress and anxiety for most of my life. My expectations for myself and my life are really high, and that can be hard to deal with. Stress from school, jobs, and just personal development can get the best of me. I am also just a naturally anxious person.
If you deal with any of these, you will definitely benefit from trying out weightlifting. There is something about resistance and moving heavy things that makes all of your negative thoughts and problems go away. I love it, and I know it has helped the way I manage my stress and anxiety more than anything else.
2) Weightlifting helps you maintain a healthy weight overall.
When you do something that you love, you will stick with it. If you can’t seem to stick with working out, maybe it is time for a change! The more options you have to pick from, the more you will continue to work out daily. I have found that weightlifting keeps me in the gym at least a few times a week. I love weightlifting because it puts me in the mindset that when I eat, I am feeding my muscles. This also helps me keep control of my sometimes unhealthy eating habits (and binging…).
3) The more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn throughout the day!
Muscle burns more calories than fat. The more muscle you have, the more calories you will burn throughout the day. Yes, even while sitting on the couch! If this doesn’t get you to the gym, I don’t know what will! Imagine the multitasking you could be doing…
4) Your confidence will skyrocket.
Girls can do it, too. You can be a strong woman in the gym, and you can be a string woman outside of the gym. I work hard so that I can better myself. When I see myself lifting heavier every session, it helps boost my confidence like nothing has ever done for me before. I love it! Your body will look amazing, your mental health will be stronger than ever, and you will feel awesome after every workout.
5) Weightlifting will help you achieve goals outside of the gym.
Weightlifting has taught me that I am stronger than I know. I have goals inside the gym, and it has trained me in the game of life more than school has ever done. Weightlifting helps me feel confident and capable. I have learned to tackle my goals head-on. Weightlifting has helped me see that a little sweat and effort can go a long way! You will see that the lessons you learn in the gym can certainly transfer to other aspects of your life.
6) Your bones and joints will thank you.
Your joints need some resistance to stay healthy, especially as we lose muscle mass as we start to get older. Weightlifting helps keep your body in shape for anything that life has to throw at it. I have suffered from neck and back pain for almost half of my life. Proper form in the gym has helped my body heal itself over time, and it has taught me the importance of proper posture. In other words, your body will love you for it.
7) It is SUPER fun!
I love killing it in the gym everyday. I love reaching for my goals and smashing them. Weightlifting is my favorite way to exercise, and I hope you learn to see the amazing benefits that it has in store for you, too!