Weights Build Muscles, But Not the Manly Kind

[Vince]

By GINA KOLATA http://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/23/h...cles-but-not-the-manly-kind.html?pagewanted=1

AS any woman who has ventured into a health club knows, the weight-lifting area is very much a male domain. The rubber-surfaced nonslip floor where the barbells and dumbbells reside is dominated by hefty men, grunting and groaning as they pump iron. Most women steer clear, clustering instead in the group exercise classes, taking yoga or step aerobics. And that, medical experts say, can be a mistake, at least for women who want to reshape their bodies. While cardiovascular exercise like running can help the heart and burn calories, the best way for women to change their look is to lift weights -- heavy weights.

 

[MAD King]

I have to say, not in my small gym. I see women doing pretty good on free weights.

 

[xplodedmuscles]

Depens on gym-to-gym. Although nice post.

 

[Hoosier52]

I see both in my gym. The ones who lift the heaviest weights are the most fit looking. I can also say that the most diligent gym rats are women. They are focused and obviously have a plan.

 

[Vince]

My girlfriend goes to the gym 4 days a week, when she started with weights. Her muscle tone definitely increased, but I don't think she increased muscle size.