Strong is Sexy

Have you heard the term, "I don't want to lift weight because I don't want to BULK up"?
"I only do cardio." "I run."
Do you ever wonder why you body never changes?
You may loose weight, only to be left with skin hanging because you have no muscles.
I myself have made all of those statements. I have done cardio til the cows come home, was always afraid to pick up a weight because I didn't want to look like a "guy"!

Now I chuckle to myself when I hear women make those statements. Though the last 20 years of fitness, I have learned to embrace my strong points and change my weaker points.
Balance and moderation is the key with fitness. Take your time for your self and work out. Forget about your problems and take an hour out of your day and workout!
Take at least three days a week for strength training, and three days for cardio. After you start seeing some changes in your body, you will want to change some things around. Maybe hire a trainer, or a new group fitness class.

When you are lifting weights, think about what you are doing, lift the weight in a smooth controlled movement, and release movement in a controlled movement. You need to use a weight that is heavy enough that you can barely lift the last couple reps. When that gets easier, move up in weight.
Cardio helps burning off body fat, if you push yourself while doing cardio. Cardio is not a "stroll" on the treadmill on a "0" incline. Cardio needs to get your heart rate elevated. Invest in a heart rate monitor, if you want to make sure you reach your "cardio zone". There is always the old fashioned way to make sure your working hard enough, if it's hard to hold a conversation, you are putttin in some work!

There is a bazillion, places on the internet, books, that you can start to find a program to follow. The one key factor is consistency. Nothing will work unless you stay consistent. As you get more comfortable, confident, you will make adjustments. Start for the right reasons, and you will be amazed at how it changes every facet in your life.
Of course, always make sure you are healthy to start an exercise program.

​Emma xoxox