Myth: Weightlifting Makes Women Look “Manly”

At ICWA, we believe that there’s an athlete in everyone. We also know that athletic performance can be improved by weightlifting. Unfortunately, many women are discouraged from beginning a weightlifting program because they think it’s going to make them look too masculine. But that’s simply not true. Weightlifting offers a number of health benefits, all of which women can enjoy without compromising a feminine physique.

Benefits of Weightlifting

Weightlifting can increase overall health and performance by:

• Raising your basal metabolic rate. Healthy muscle tissue takes more energy to maintain, so an increase in muscle mass burns more calories at rest.

• Strengthening bones. The pull of the muscles against bones during weightlifting exercises prevents calcium from being leeched from bones for other body functions.

• Stabilizing joints. Increased muscles, ligaments and tendons hold bones in place, reducing the risk of injury.

• Detoxifying your body. The flex of muscles during weightlifting exercises facilitates the movement of lymphatic fluid that transports toxins away from muscles.

By strengthening your muscles, weightlifting can make everyday tasks—like cleaning, lifting objects, bending over—seem easier.

When Weightlifting Changes Appearance

It is unfortunate that so many women forego the potential benefits of weightlifting because they are afraid of an unnatural appearance. The fear is simply unfounded.

First, weightlifting can simply tone muscles. The instructors at ICWA provide instruction on balancing weight levels and repetitions so that you either tone or build muscle.

However, even if you want to build muscle mass, genetically, women are just not “programmed” to bulk up the way men do. Women who have large muscles and/or a more masculine appearance may have a naturally higher level of testosterone than most women or they may be taking substances to boost testosterone. In other words, without hormonal supplementation, women are unlikely to look “manly” by weightlifting alone.

Weightlifting for Women

Weightlifting is an excellent component of any well-rounded fitness program. ICWA has weightlifting programs for beginners all the way up to Olympic Weightlifting Level 2. We have women-only groups so that you can participate without feeling intimidated. To get started, contact us today and find the weightlifting program that’s right for you!