Assuming you don’t have any underlying orthopedic or medical conditions, here are some reasons why you should lift heavy weights.
Endorphins (aka The Happy Hormone). Endorphins are a chemical that your brain releases when your body is under stress. The harder you push, the greater the need for the endorphins to kick in. Lifting heavy weights can create the euphoric high thanks to these guys. Regular, strenuous lifting sessions can be a great help in regulating mood. Read more about endorphins here.
Metabolism. Muscle is active tissue. It breaks down and builds up. That means it requires energy. You know what has energy? FOOD. Girls who lift heavy weights don’t need to feel guilty or ashamed about what they eat. In fact, if you’re sticking to a diet of salad and grapefruit, you’re missing out on one of the greatest benefits of a hard workout, eating. If you’re not sure how to make your diet work for you, this Precision Nutrition infographic has a great overview.
Bones. That’s right. Heavy lifting can help maintain bone density which means we have a greater chance of aging gracefully. Osteoporosis can cause major complications as we get older, leading to falls and fractures. Not cool if you are trying to live a happy, active life full of sexy salsa dancing and heavy weight lifting. Just look at these facts.
Empowerment. Women who lift weights have better emotional well being and body image. Maybe that’s because they focus on what their bodies can do. Or maybe they feel successful and in control when they hit goal after goal. Whatever the reason, lifting heavy weights is empowering. Check out this study.
Curves. Muscles on women are sexy. That’s because muscle is what gives us shape. Generally, most women don’t produce enough testosterone to morph into Arnold Schwarzenegger and we have naturally higher body fat percentages than men. That means that any muscle you put on will fill out your frame so you can look lovely and feminine. And if you don’t believe me, take it from Marilyn.
Find the balance. 