Why I changed my mind about lifting weights

Are you avoiding lifting weights? If so, you are not alone. Once upon a time, I avoided doing weights too. I avoided them because I had no idea what to do with weights. I didn’t want to look bulky and masculine. I didn’t know the advantages of doing weights.

For years, my husband wanted me to be more active and join him in our basement gym. I was reluctant, going once in a while but I was never fully committed. The thought of lifting weights seemed boring. I didn’t know my way around the equipment, didn’t know any technical names of any lifts. It was a world I knew nothing about!

I’m really a runner at heart. I did some running because I’m familiar with that activity; I have been running since childhood. Running requires little equipment, and my only limitations are my lungs and how fast my legs can take me.

Where to start with weight training?

Starting weight training can be intimidating if you have never lifted them before. I started using weights when I started to follow the P90X3 program and working out with the free Nike Training Club iPhone app. I’ve also completed the Beachbody’s 21 Day Fix & #mbf, both of which I really enjoyed. I’m currently doing #mbfa and really increasing in strength on this program.

I like using the mentioned videos and iPhone app because they allowed me to learn how to lift weights at my own pace, in the privacy of my home, where I didn’t feel stupid or judged.

No one could see that I had no clue what I was doing like I would be if I was in front of a small crowd in a gym. Once I got started, I changed my mind about lifting weights. I actually enjoy it now!

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I also started to see that I wasn’t bulking up! With lifting weights, I was actually getting leaner, and my muscles were more defined.

What weights to use?

I recommend starting small, starting using 5 lbs. weights and progressing to up to 15 lbs., depending on the arm exercise. I can go higher if it’s for leg exercises.

If you are looking at getting started with lifting weights, I suggest acquiring the following to start:

5 lb dumbbells
10 lb dumbbells
15 lb dumbbells
10 lb kettlebell
a thick mat or yoga mat

We also have “The Total Gym” at home that gets a lot of use. Using the total gym, you use your body as your weight. My husband and I both like this equipment, it allows us to do a range of exercises with one piece of equipment, including pull-ups and chin-ups, but that can be quite an investment to make.

Favourite way to use weights?

My favourite way of using weights is when it’s combined with a cardio workout. Beachbody’s P90x3 does it really well in the CVX workout video. Currently, I’m really loving #mbf and #mbfa, Both are newer programs, also from Beachbody. The Nike Training Club app also combines weights and cardio well. Select from Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced workouts which are about 30 to 45 minutes. The great thing about the Nike Training Club app is that it’s free, and a great place to see if lifting weights is for you. They have a wide range of programs, and you won’t get bored.

Final Results!

My arms and legs are now well-defined. I’m building muscles, but lean ones and I am shredding fat at the same time. My metabolism has increased as well. And, what I realize is that by doing weights, I have become stronger however, I am not big and bulky or manly looking, and I still have my killer curves.

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You won’t regret changing your mind about lifting weights like me!

Maybe one day, I’ll be brave (read: confident) enough to post photos of my “after” photos. If you liked this post, you might also like: