NOW being Strong is SEXY!

Don’t be scared of the weight room lifting is your to lean muscles and steel bones. Move past the fear and start pumping iron.

The fact of lifting weights doesn’t bulk you up. Working with higher poundage improves muscle definition, which makes you look toned, not beefy. And lean muscle is more metabolically active than fat which means you’ll torch more calories, even at rest.

So get fired up about heavy lifting by following these tips to weight room confidence.

CHOOSE WISELY
Find a supportive environment. Call gym managers to get stats on female enrolment and trainers, and ask about the vibe, recommends a body positive activists.

Then check it out for yourself: is the place all about looking hot in the latest athleisure? Or hardcore sweating and shedding pounds? Or community and making friends? If you like it go for it.

DON’T WING IT
Show up with a plan, recommends personal trainer and USA weight lifting coach. Something like, I’ll bang out three sets of walking lunges with dumbbells, and three sets of squats with a barbell, instead of I’ll lift weights. Having a strategy forces your brain to focus on the specific task you’ve given it. That in turn, quiets those voices of fear and intimidation.

ENLIST A PRO
Many gyms offer a free personal training session. Take advantage of it. Your trainer can be great ally, showing you the equipment and suggesting moves that will help you meet your goals.

PARTNER UP
Still intimidated by all the six packs and weight lifting gloves? Recruit your bestie to work out with you. Everything’s less scary with a friend by your side.