Happy Tuesday everyone! Ever since I’ve started working out (over 7 years now!) I have heard some crazy myths about women and training. I know a lot of the questions come from lack of understanding exercise and that is okay! Today I’m going to answer the confusing the questions people may have about fitness and debunk some of those myths.
Lifting weights will make me look like a man
Whoever started this rumour should be arrested. I can’t even tell you how many times women have approached me with this or have told me they don’t want to look like female bodybuilders. It always goes something like this “I want to get into shape, but not look like a man, just tone”. On the contrary darlings, lifting weights does the exact opposite. It actually helps women achieve a feminine physique and beautiful curves. For most women, gaining muscle is hard work. It took me over 6 years to put on the tiny muscles I am ever so proud of today. So no, you won’t look like a man.
And for anyone who says they don’t want to look like a female bodybuilder. Trust me, lifting a few weights won’t get you there. These girls put in not just hours, days, or months but years of hard work to look like that. They put their lives on hold to train, diet, and not to mention put their bodies in some serious stress to earn those gains. I applaud those women for their hard work and discipline.
I’ll do body weight squats everyday for a bigger butt
Doing squats everyday is great to get your body moving, but doing them alone won’t give you a bigger butt. You need to Isolate your glutes and train them at least twice a week, along with proper nutrition. This means spending an 30-60 minutes really working your bum with various glute exercises. Using mind muscle connection during the movements, working with various weights, tempo, reps and sets all contribute to the size of your tush.
I can’t workout on my period
It’s totally ok to workout on your period. It’s all up to how you are feeling. If you get light headed during that time then obviously you wouldn’t train through a killer session. Training during your period can actually help ease cramps and make you feel better. On the same note, if you’re not feeling it during that time of month, it’s ok to take the day off training to relax.
Training abs will get rid of belly fat
Doing crunches and sit ups will help build your abdominal muscle and strengthen the area but it won’t get rid of the fat. The truth is, you can’t actually target fat. Cardio and high intensity workouts burn fat all around. If you wan’t a toned tummy you must do ab exercises along with cardio for ultimate results (and may I add proper nutrition and a good nights sleep help too).
Do you have any fitness questions? Comment below, I love hearing from you!
The Comments
Brittany
This is a great post! I’ve been working out for years too and I’ve never felt better once I started lifting weights. It does wonders! Not quite where I’m looking to be yet but not being scared of the weight room is half the battle 🙂
www.girlmeetsgym.me
BrittanyHey Brittany! Just checked out your blog and you look amazing! Yes, the weight room used to be so intimidating for me. Actually, I’m inspired to write a post on that! Thank you!!!
Rachel
I loved this post! I just started getting back in shape recently and I have never felt better!
xo Rachel | http://www.thesassroom.com
Zaira
This is such a great post! Lots of great information and that photo is amazing!