3 Benefits of Weightlifting for Women over 50.
The benefits of lifting weightlifting for women over 50 are many and varied.
In this post we look at only 3 benefits weightlifting provides for women over 50.
But before we get into those 3 major benefits, there is one that, in my opinion, tops them all.
And that is…
the fact that weightlifting builds muscle.
Why?
Because having muscle leads to an entire host of benefits.
Think of it this way: If you have good muscle tone, you will not only look good, but you will have a bit of strength. If you are strong, then you are not frail (and you are still good-looking!). If you are not a frail 50-, 60-, 70- or 80-year-old, (absent other complications) you will be able to live independently longer.
And who doesn’t want to be able to get up off the potty on her own— no matter what her age?
Living independently well into our senior years is a priority for most of us.
And so, if we want to live a quality life for as long as possible, we need to make weightlifting and resistance training a priority in our lives.
Living independently is not the only benefit that weightlifting provides for everyone — and especially women 50+.
There are other fantastic benefits that even just a little lifting (once, twice or even three times a week) can give you.
Coming up are 3 of my favorites.
And if you are not sure how or how to get started, no worries. I’ve got your back and your bis covered.
3 Benefits of Weightlifting for Women over 50.
1. Strength Training is the Fast Track to Fat Loss
Coming in at number 1 is that weightlifting (or simply “lifting”) burns calories all day long after you lift.
Building muscle creates a higher metabolism, helps you burn fat and calories—getting you to your “fat loss” or weight loss goals quicker.
In contrast, cardio (jogging, aerobics, the treadmill etc.) burns calories (usually far less than you think) only while you are doing it. As soon as you stop, so does the calorie burn.
Plus, having muscle and the strength that comes with it, lessens the probability that you will get injured doing everyday things like carrying groceries, gardening, or playing tennis (or did I mean pickleball?). It also helps to prevent falls and to lessen the possibility of injury if you do fall.
Not to mention that you will look better and feel better.
And who doesn’t want that?
2. It’s Versatile
The next benefit: you never need to be bored.
Bands
Machines at the gym
Barbells
Dumbbells
Bodyweight …
It doesn’t really matter what implement you use for your weight training. You just need to challenge your body with progressive overload.
Which is great because you can use all kinds of weightlifting implements and tools to keep your workouts fresh and challenging and to keep you coming back for more.
3. Weightlifting Can Help Prevent Alzheimer’s
A number of new studies indicate that weightlifting can slow down or prevent the onset of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s.
When you put that benefit with looking good, losing fat, feeling confident, not getting bored and all the other benefits weight training brings with it, it’s practically a no-brainer! (Ok, sorry. I couldn’t resist.)
But with all the benefits it confers on women over 50, weight training is definitely one of the best things you can do for your overall health and longevity.
So what are you waiting for?
Let’s Get Moving!
As a woman over 50, at Strength & Balance for Seniors, I help other women over 50 transform their lives and bodies one rep at a time. Whether it is through Zoom workouts or in-person in the Bay area, I work with clients one-on-one and provide the individualized attention you need to reach your fitness, health, and longevity goals. Connect with me here or on my Facebook page, Strength & Balance for Seniors.