Provided by:

Revised:  1  AUGUST 2011

Benefits and Myths of Strength Training for Women

Benefits for female athletes who perform an appropriate strength training program include the following (Fleck and Kraemer, 2004; Ebben and Jensen, 1998):

1.  Enhanced bone modeling to increase bone strength and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

2.  Stronger connective tissues to increase joint stability and help prevent injury.

3.  Increased functional strength for sports and daily activity.

4.  Increased lean body mass and decreased nonfunctional body fat.

5.  Higher metabolic rate because of an increase in muscle and a decrease in fat.

6.  Improved self-esteem and confidence.

7.  Improved physical performance in sport specific skills.

Source:  Science and Practice of Strength Training, Second Addition

Vladimiri M. Zatsiotsky and William J. Kraemer