There is one myth I hear all the time from women about weights. They are hesitant to strength train because they don’t want to get bulky.
I can recite the facts to them:
We lack the testosterone to get bulky.
Muscles can’t “tone” – they either shrink or grow.
Getting massive requires very specific training.
Yet there is one problem. Sometimes women do get bulky.
For a very very small portion of women, genetics do cause certain body parts, like calves, to get relatively big in a short period of time. I say relatively because while they do seem bigger they aren’t ready to pose at the Olympia. However genetics usually aren’t to blame. The problem has nothing to do with their workouts either.
It’s all about food.
You can’t out train a bad diet. If you start exercising and don’t change anything about what you eat not only will you not lose fat you’ll probably gain some fat over those new and developing muscles. Hence the problem of bulky arms and thighs.
Proper nutrition and a well designed strength training program are the keys to real fitness. With whole foods full of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients your body will have the building blocks it needs to shape a strong and lean body. Food accountability and keeping portions in check will give you enough fuel to feel good while allowing your body to dip into reserves and burn fat. When the fat is gone the beautiful curves of the muscle shine through.
Weight training will not make you bulky. Thinking you can eat whatever you want because you work out will.
