Embarking on a fitness journey is a thrilling yet daunting endeavour. The thought of transforming our bodies and improving our health is appealing, but the fear of the unknown can hold us back. As someone who wanted to try weight training but was afraid, I found myself searching for a solution that would challenge me physically and mentally, while providing the support and guidance I needed. That's when I discovered CrossFit, a unique fitness program that has helped me overcome my fears and achieve my fitness goals.

However, a common misconception about heavy weight training is “looking bulky” among women, which is the idea that lifting heavy weight will lead to a bulky looking physique. I was asked this question on numerous occasions when starting out, “Are you not terrified of looking bulky?”

This may be related to the understanding that women have less muscle mass and are inherently less capable of building muscle compared to men. This misconception may lead to the belief that weight lifting will make women "bulk up" in an undesirable way. This has led to some women shying away from weight lifting, fearing that it will make them lose their femininity or conform to societal beauty standards. However, it's time to break these barriers and combat the stigma of looking bulky as a woman who weight lifts.

READ MORE: The Glossary: What is Crossfit? and 5 other questions being asked about the fitness regime

CrossFit is my personal preference for weight and strength training but there are many options out there to try. When it comes to boosting both confidence and overall health, I found CrossFit proves to be an absolute game-changer for women. This dynamic and empowering fitness regimen not only challenges your physical limits but also fosters mental resilience and a sense of accomplishment. With its diverse range of workouts that combine elements of strength training, cardio, and functional movements, CrossFit delivers incredible results by sculpting and toning the body while improving endurance and agility. But that's not all – the beauty of CrossFit lies in its supportive community. Surrounded by like-minded individuals who cheer you on and celebrate your progress, you'll find an unparalleled sense of belonging and empowerment.

If you're ready to reap the incredible rewards of weight training, let me introduce you to the remarkable Marie Kennedy, a personal trainer and coach at CrossFit Tullamore who played a pivotal role in my own fitness journey. Marie breaks down the benefits of strength and weight training for women below:

• Strength training helps women build lean muscle mass, which in turn increases overall muscle strength. This can improve physical performance in daily activities and sports, and reduce the risk of injury.
• Boosted metabolism: Building muscle through strength training can increase resting metabolic rate, which means women burn more calories even when at rest. This can aid in weight management and weight loss efforts, as muscle tissue requires more energy to maintain compared to fat tissue.
• Improved body composition: Strength training can help women achieve a more toned and defined physique. By reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass, women can achieve a desirable body composition, leading to improved body aesthetics and self-confidence.
• Weight training and strength training can be beneficial for women's bone health, especially during menopause. Menopause is a stage in a woman's life when Estrogen levels decline, which can lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterised by brittle and weak bones.
• Better cardiovascular health: Strength training can also benefit cardiovascular health by improving heart and lung function, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and lowering blood pressure. Combining strength training with cardiovascular exercises can provide a well-rounded fitness routine.
• Enhanced mental health: Like other forms of exercise, strength training has been shown to have positive effects on mental health.

Empowerment and confidence: Engaging in strength training can foster a sense of empowerment and confidence in women as they challenge themselves and achieve new levels of physical strength and ability. This can have positive effects on self-esteem, body image, and overall self-worth.

In any fitness journey, it's essential to recognise the critical role that recovery and nutrition play in achieving your goals. While pushing your limits during workouts is important, giving your body time to recover and rebuild is equally vital. I opt in for ice baths each week to help recover.

In summary, women can reap numerous benefits from incorporating strength training into their fitness routine, It is always recommended to consult with a qualified fitness professional to design a strength training program that meets individual needs and goals.

Always consult a doctor before starting on a weight loss journey.

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