Who doesn't like abs, toned arms, and a big gluteus maximus? These eye candies can be a treat to look at and if this is what motivates you to start working out, you should start now. Better late than never, right? But what most people don't know is how everything in your body starts falling into the right places behind the scenes once you start working out. So let's dive right into it.
As a woman, you are three times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men, and this seed is planted in early childhood and adolescence. This is particularly why strength training is a great way to build stronger bones, maintain proper alignment in the joints, and reduce the risk of injury. Dr. Emily Hill Bowman, MD, Nebraska Medicine, also states that "women can also lessen their risk for conditions unique to them such as osteoporosis after menopause and pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and postpartum depression through weight training."
Recent data reports that 1 in 16 women aged 20 and older have coronary heart disease. This is also the leading cause of death for women in the United States. The silver lining here is that heart diseases are preventable, and by including strength training in your regimen, you can enhance your quality of life drastically. American Psychological Association also reports that women are more likely to report physical symptoms of stress than men. With increased stress comes a lack of good sleep, indigestion, dullness, fatigue, and the list goes on. Strength training is proven to help you get better and uninterrupted sleep. It can rejuvenate your body, boost confidence, and get your body functioning optimally.
The best part about this wonderful prevention is, it's suitable for all age groups! Girls as young as 7 years old can start weight training with their body weight and you're never too old to start now. Given that osteoporosis affects women more post-menopause, strength training becomes crucial to maintain bone mass. It supports aging joints, posture, wholesome tasks like lifting grandchildren, and continued participation in other joyful activities.
If you're still not convinced to start, maybe try doing it anyway to get the body of your dreams and you might be surprised. Good luck!
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