Picture a gym ten years ago: the weights room was largely a male-dominated space, with women mostly doing cardio exercise. Fast-forward to today and you’re likely to see women of all ages and backgrounds confidently navigating weights equipment. This is more than just anecdotal.
According to data from the Australian Sports Commission , the number of women participating in weightlifting (either competitively or not) grew nearly five-fold between 2016 and 2022. Women are discovering what research has long shown: strength training offers benefits beyond sculpted muscles. Health benefits Osteoporosis , a disease in which the bones become weak and brittle, affects more women than men.
Strength training increases bone density , a crucial factor for preventing osteoporosis , especially for women negotiating menopause. Strength training also improves insulin sensitivity , which means your body gets better at using insulin to manage blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular strength training contributes to better heart health too.
There’s a mental health boost as well. Strength training has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety . Improved confidence and body image Unlike some forms of exercise where progress can feel elusive, strength training offers clear and tangible measures of success.
Each time you add more weight to a bar, you are reminded of your ability to meet your goals and conquer challenges . This sense of achievement doesn�.