WEIGHT TRAINING FOR WOMEN

A little bit of an introduction as to why I have this pic up - This is Marilou Dozois-Prévost who, in 2011 set a Canadian National record in the snatch with a lift of 87 kilos at a bodyweight of only 53 kilos. (116 lbs, just over 8 stone!!!) She came 10th in the world at the Beijing Olympics and won gold in the CommonWealth games in 2010. This lady is lifting serious weights and yet she looks leaner, fitter and healthier than any woman on the catwalk this year!

Now.....perhaps you don't agree! Perhaps you think that the model,above, is the picture of health. I can't say that I agree. 
Most women are concerned that if they lift heavy weights, they will turn into a version of Jodie Marsh in her bodybuilding programme. This is a huge misjudgement and results from poorly trained PT's and fitness trainers telling people to lift light weights for high reps otherwise you will 'bulk up'. 
My advice on this topic will be short and sweet this week - find yourself a good trainer (try looking up a Poliquin certified trainer or someone with a good track record) and get lifting something heavier than a can of beans. 
Most women tend to trend towards walking to keep fit. Don't get me wrong - getting out for 20-40 mins every day, or even 3 times a week, is so much better than sitting on the couch. Walking improves aerobic fitness and can reduce blood pressure and is most definitely an excellent destressing tool. However, walking only works the skeletal system of the lower body - what I mean to say is - the type of exercise women need to keep their bones strong as they age are weight bearing exercises. Walking does not provide this kind of stimulation for the upper body - only resistance work can provide the required stimulation.
Last week's rant was extensive, so I will keep this piece more 'advisory'.....Ladies, don't be afraid to get yourself to a good gym and ask the instructors or personal trainers about lifting weights. If they point you in the direction of the pink neoprene 0.5lb weights in the corner.....run away....very quickly!