Lifting Away the Fallacies - Menopause Facts on Strength Training

Finally, Menopause Support You Can Trust

It is no secret that there are a number of benefits when it comes to strength training, also known as weight lifting or resistance training; increased bone density, increased muscle mass, and a lower risk for many age related diseases top these benefits. With all the positive effects of strength training, particularly for menopausal women, it is still not widely accepted by the masses as effective exercise. Partially to blame are all the myths surrounding strength training for perimenopausal and menopausal women. The following are some common myths, and the truths behind them.

1. The Big Fat Lie, Women will Bulk Up

It is easy to see how this myth got started considering the number of men focusing on increasing their mass through strength training. However, men and women are different on a number of levels; remember, men don't have to deal with hot flashes and menopause. The truth is menopausal women will not bulk up from strength training unless they are producing levels of testosterone found mainly in men. Additionally, bulking up takes muscle strength that typical women don't have.

2. A Weak Farce, Some Older Women Aren't Strong Enough 

Back before the 80s it was common practice for doctors to avoid recommending strength training for older patients, particularly women, because of the fear that the strain of these exercises would injure their weak bodies. This is simply not true. Although I would recommend consulting your doctor first - the fact is older women can ward off pre menopause symptoms by engage in resistance training.

3. Thin Veils, Slender People Don't Need It

Contrary to popular belief, thin does not equate to healthy. In fact, weight lifting is imperative for all women, and the earlier you start the better off you will be. It is said that young women that do not strength train will shed up to six pounds of muscle and replace it with as many pounds of fat by age 50. Just because a woman is thin and "appears" healthy does not mean that she is.

4. Spotty Logic, Weight Lifting Can Help Women "Spot Reduce"

For a lucky few, their bodies are exactly where they want them to be, with the exception of one or two "problem areas." Popular belief says that resistance training can remove these trouble spots; this is simply not true. While strength training can help tone specific areas, body fat, as the name implies, belongs to the entire body, and spot reducing will prove ineffective.

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Menopausal Support and Relief is something every woman needs; if not for herself, for her friends or daughters. Get the inside scoop and answers to your questions. If you would like more information on exercising and staying fit during menopause go to http://www.360menopause.com