STRENGTH TRAINING FOR WOMEN

Beginning a strength-training program would be an excellent idea for a number of reasons.

Strength training two to three times each week will help maintain and perhaps increase muscle size and strength, which will add shape to your body and help prevent injuries. You will also be able to accomplish activities of daily living without undue stress or fatigue.

Loss of skin elasticity is a normal process of aging due to loss of collagen fibers in the skin. Genetics, sun exposure, history of smoking are all factors associated with loss of skin elasticity. Strength training will help "fill out" your skin and give you an internal "body lift."

Strength training will also help maintain bone density as you approach menopause. Women not on hormone replacement therapy exhibit an accelerated rate of loss in the first five to seven years of early menopause. But bone loss will slow down once your body adapts to the hormone deficiency. Strength training can help optimize and maintain bone density throughout the life span.

Strength training may also help with weight control. As women age they tend to lose lean body mass. The more muscle mass you have, the higher your resting metabolic rate. So building muscle can help optimize your daily caloric expenditure and provide a hedge against fat weight gain.

Not only does strength training help you look better, but it also may help you feel better by strengthening your self-esteem. And women of any age can benefit! Give strength training a try and let us know how you feel.