Many women get stuck in the daily routine of 30 minutes on the treadmill.  Are you one of those women?  Do you ever wonder why you aren’t seeing the change you’d like to see?  Often times, it takes a little more to achieve your goals.

The human body is a very complex, hard working machine.  Muscles need to be challenged, encouraged, and rested in order to change.  Your body needs confusion.  Confusion equals change.  A workout regimen that includes both cardio and weight lifting is ideal.  Try picking up some weights!

Weight lifting is an excellent way to sculpt your body and develop clear muscle tone.  Many experts agree that women who lift a few times weekly burn more calories when their bodies are stagnant or not doing anything.  A steady paced weight lifting routine is an excellent form of cardio.  This is not to say that solely weight lifting will get rid of excess fat. 

Are you shy of weight lifting because you are afraid it will make you bulky or masculine?  Think again.  Women do not have the testosterone to build the kind of muscle you are afraid of.  Instead, lifting will help you tone and give you more femininity.  Consistent lifting will not only improve your muscle fibers, but help you gain a more chiseled shape.  If you prefer long lean muscles, aim for plenty of reps with smaller weights (3 sets of 12-15 reps).  If you are very thin and are looking to gain muscle, try a heavier weight accompanied by fewer reps (1-2 sets of 5-10 reps).

Weight lifting can be very rewarding.  Try fitting it into your schedule and break up your workout routine.  You will notice some great changes if you are consistent in confusing your body with different exercises of lifting accompanied by cardiovascular work.

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