Women's bodybuilding: 10 misconceptions and myths to forget

"You're going to get too muscular!" How many times have we heard this ill-informed phrase, stopping women from practicing bodybuilding? Female bodybuilding is often misunderstood and tainted with many myths. This article aims to dismantle the major misconceptions that prevent many women from enjoying the benefits of this activity for their health and well-being.

You are a woman who wants to get into bodybuilding, but you may be held back by misconceptions and gender stereotypes. These unfounded beliefs often associate bodybuilding with men and create doubts about the effects of this practice for women.

In this article, we'll debunk the most common myths about bodybuilding among women and show how it can improve their health and well-being, while disproving some popular ideas about the female body.

Summary :

1. Myth 1: Bodybuilding makes women “massive”
2. Myth 2: Women can't lift heavy weights
3. Myth 3: Strength training is bad for women's joints
4. Myth 4: Strength training does not burn fat
5. Myth 5: Women should do different exercises than men
6. Myth 6: Bodybuilding is not for older women
7. Myth 7: Bodybuilding is not for thin women
8. Myth 8: Weight training is not for pregnant women
9. Myth 9: Strength training is not suitable for women who have had a mastectomy
10. Myth 10: Bodybuilding is an expensive hobby

10 Common Bodybuilding Myths for Women

• Myth 1: Bodybuilding makes women “massive”

One of the main myths about bodybuilding in women is that it makes them "massive". Many people worry about looking masculine or gaining too much muscle mass. In reality, most women cannot build significant muscle without supplements or hormones.

Rather, bodybuilding helps to sculpt a sleek and toned female body as we explain in our article " Why women should start bodybuilding "? Additionally, targeted strength training exercises, such as squats, can help tone your stomach and thighs.

• Myth 2: Women can't lift heavy weights

Another common myth is that women can't lift heavy weights. In truth, they can do it just like men. Muscle strength depends on muscle size and power, not gender.

Women who exercise regularly can become very strong and lift heavy loads. This training also helps to strengthen bone health and reduce the risk of injury in women.

• Myth 3: Strength training harms female joints

Contrary to this idea, weight training strengthens the muscles around the joints, decreasing the pressure on them and reducing the risk of injury. It also improves joint flexibility and mobility for better long-term health.

• Myth 4: Strength training does not burn fat

Some women believe weight training does not burn fat and prefer cardio to lose weight. However, strength training is a great way to burn calories and lose body fat by increasing basal metabolism through lean muscle mass as we detail in " Strength training: an effective way to lose weight ". For a flat stomach, it is essential to adopt a healthy and balanced diet, in addition to practicing targeted exercises such as abs.

• Myth 5: Women should do different exercises than men

In fact, women can benefit from the same exercises as men by working the same muscle groups, adjusting weights and progression based on their level of fitness and strength.

• Myth 6: Bodybuilding is not for older women

On the contrary, bodybuilding is beneficial for all women, including older ones. It strengthens muscles, improves bone density and reduces the risk of falls and fractures. Remember that it is important to eat well and rest to allow your muscles to recover. Running can also be integrated into your training program to work in a complementary way with weight training.

Do not hesitate to consult our article " How to do your bodybuilding program to gain muscle?" .

• Myth 7: Bodybuilding is not for thin women

Strength training helps tone and sculpt the body, regardless of weight or size. Thin women can benefit from working out to improve their fitness and overall health.

• Myth 8: Weight training is not for pregnant women

Strength training can be beneficial during pregnancy, especially to strengthen the muscles of the back and abdominals. However, it is essential to consult a doctor before starting an exercise program.

• Myth 9: Strength training is not suitable for women who have had a mastectomy

Strength training can improve health and well-being after a mastectomy by strengthening back and shoulder muscles. A prior medical consultation is necessary to ensure the safety and adaptability of the training.

• Myth 10: Bodybuilding is an expensive hobby

It's possible to work out at home with inexpensive free weights or resistance bands, and find free or low-cost online workout programs to guide women in strength training.

 Conclusion

Strength training offers many health and wellness benefits for women. Unfortunately, received ideas circulate and can dissuade them from embarking on this practice.

We hope this article inspires more women to get into bodybuilding and benefit from its many benefits, including better overall health.

 FAQs

1. Will bodybuilding make me gain muscle mass as a woman?

No, most women don't have the physical ability to build big muscles without the help of supplements or hormones.

2. Can women lift heavy weights in bodybuilding?

Yes, women can lift heavy weights just like men.

3. Is strength training bad for women's joints?

No, strength training can help strengthen the muscles around the joints, which can reduce pressure on them and reduce the risk of injury.

4. Does strength training burn fat?

Yes, strength training can help burn calories and lose body fat. You can learn more about weight loss myths by reading our article on 7 Weight Loss Misconceptions

5. Is bodybuilding for older women?

Yes, weight training is beneficial for women of all ages, including older women.