Answered by:
Valerie Wojciechowicz
Wellness Expert
4HIVHelp.com

This is a very common question. I had the same concern when I started working out, but have no fear.

Most women do not have the genetics to be muscle-bound, therefore high intensity strength training is typically beneficial. We also lose muscle as we age, so it is important to offset that process.

Additionally, lifting heavier weights is important for strength gain, increasing bone density, toned appearance and increasing metabolism.

Once I became willing to trust the experts and add strength training I lost two clothing sizes, but nothing on the scale because muscle makes you smaller and firmer. Becoming stronger also helps us with daily activities and challenges.

Muscles grow by adding increasingly greater demands, so once you comfortably complete 10 to 12 repetitions of an exercise, you should gradually increase the demand on your muscle with heavier weights.

Nutrition is also important. Be sure have adequate protein intake.