Here at Shape, we’re no strangers to the benefits of strength training. With the rise of trending hashtags like #girlswholift and #strongnotskinny and influencer-led booty workouts all over your feed, cardio queens everywhere are trading in their long-distance running shoes for squat-proof leggings at least a few times per week. After all, whether you’re doing bodyweight exercises or lifting heavy weights, resistance training has the unique ability to increase your metabolism while reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass, resulting in a snatched look and a stronger body.
But, as a former cardio-obsessed girlie turned certified personal trainer, I know firsthand that starting a strength training journey for the first time can be intimidating. It’s hard to figure out which exercises will actually help you achieve the physique you want and how to do them with correct form, not to mention what equipment and accessories you actually need, and what’s just a marketing gimmick.
We get it, so we spoke to personal trainers, nutritionists, and our own team of fitness experts to gather all the information you need to get started — from the perfect beginner weightlifting plan to the ideal weightlifting wardrobe and the best adjustable dumbbells that save you a trip to the gym.
We also answer all your burning questions related to strength, like whether creatine is actually worth it for women, and which protein powders can fuel your workouts without unnecessary ingredients.
Plus, we share our favorite tips and mantras for staying motivated throughout your fitness journey, because strength isn’t just about having a toned body; it’s also about cultivating the mental strength you need to achieve your goals at the gym and in your everyday life.
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