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Strength training is very beneficial for Women

on Mar17

While most women know that aerobic activity is an important part of overall good health, many mistakenly think that the purpose of strength training is solely to build large muscles. As a result, they think that only men should do it. The truth is that strength training is just as important for women as it is for men. Listed below are a few of the health benefits strength training can provide for women.

Relief from Arthritis Pain

Many people with arthritis avoid strength training because they are worried it will aggravate their symptoms and result in more pain. Strength training can actually help improve muscle strength and function in people with arthritis. It can also help with pain management.

Helps with Weight Management

Strength training can play an important role in weight management and in promoting a healthy metabolism. As you build muscle through strength training, your body becomes more efficient at burning calories, even while you are at rest. This is a very important component of any weight loss or long-term weight control program.

Improves Cardiac Health

Strength training also helps promote cardiac health, since your risk of developing heart disease is lower when your body is leaner. The American Heart Association recommends people do strength training as a way to reduce their risk of heart disease and as a form of therapy for cardiac rehabilitation patients.

Lowers Your Risk of Injury

Building muscle helps protect your joints and ligaments from injury when you are performing aerobic forms of exercise or normal daily activities, such as lifting and bending over. Strength training can also increase your flexibility and balance, which can help reduce the likelihood of falls.

Strengthens Your Bones

Strength training helps increase bone density and lowers your risk of developing osteoporosis. According to a study conducted at Tufts University, strength training can increase a woman’s bone density and reduces the risk of fractures for women who are between 50 and 70 years of age. This is particularly important since post-menopausal women can lose from 1 to 2% of their bone mass annually.

Strength training can provide women with a number of positive health benefits, such as strengthening your bones and providing relief from arthritis. If you have been avoiding strength training, there is no time like the present to get started. Be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.