Build muscle and lose weight: Why strength training is so effective for women

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In the video: Why strength training is so effective in losing weight

Sophia Thiel and Pamela Reif show the way – women, dare to use the weights! Because with targeted strength training, the dream of a toned body will come true more quickly.

For years, we women have been making a pilgrimage to the gym to finally achieve our long-awaited goal of the perfect bikini body. The classic: Regularly attending the “stomach, legs and buttocks” course in the nearby gym.

The crux of the matter: there are no visible successes, even though the discipline is enormous and the nutrition plan is strictly adhered to.

So where is the mistake? One reason why our body has not yet transformed into the bikini body of a Sophia Thiel or Pamela Reif despite disciplined training is that we are doing the wrong workout. The secret of these ladies is targeted strength training for women.

Book tip:Beauty, fitness and food tips from Germany's beautiful fitness influencer Pamela reveals them in her book: 'Strong & Beautiful', which youYou can shop here on Amazon.*

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This is what you need for strength training

The great thing about the strength training program for women: You don't need much. An exercise mat makes working out at home more comfortable. A non-slip mat that can also be used for yoga and Pilates,can be purchased here on Amazon.*

To start training in your own four walls, you can start with dumbbells.The dumbbells are available in different weight levels on Amazon.*

Weightlifting is very effective for women

Logically, most women have heard of strength training, but unfortunately very few people dare to use weights. But you have to shake off this shyness if you want to emulate the workout of the fitness models.

They copied weightlifting from men. These girls proudly walked into the area with the heavy dumbbells and the equally heavy guys (who are mostly really nice) and got started.

Don't worry, just because you do the same exercises as bodybuilders doesn't mean you'll turn into a female Arnold Schwarzenegger - in reality, the opposite is true. Because weightlifting is the secret to a slim, defined body.

Positive effects of strength training in women

Strength training for women also has a lot of positive effects: the muscles support the skeleton and can even counteract osteoporosis, fat burning is increased and sleep becomes more peaceful.

With strength training it is even possible to have a little influence on your body proportions. For example, do wide hips bother you? By strengthening the upper body muscles, shoulders and arms, the wide pelvis can be visually balanced out a little.

In the video: Short and intensive strength training workout

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How do I start strength training?

To get started in the gym or workout at home, you don't need more than your own body weight. With classics like push-ups, squats, crunches and planks, you already have a sufficient number of exercises to help you move forward.

But at some point, fitness beauties like Pamela Reif and Sophia Thiel also trained with more weights. In addition, the equipment in the gym also ensures that you make fewer posture errors that can cause serious damage.

Have a training plan drawn up at the gym. Start the strength exercises slowly and in a controlled manner. As long as you can perform the tasks correctly, the weight is just right. Slowly approach higher and higher weights. A rule of thumb: The weight is appropriate for your level when your muscles start to burn slightly after three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions. If there is no slight pulling in the muscle, you can try the next weight level.

A kettlebell is a great way to start strength training.Credit:iStock

Training with a kettlebell or kettlebell, for example, is particularly effective. This allows you to train many different muscle groups. Either with swing exercises or for exercises with many repetitions. Be sure to have a trainer show you how to handle a kettlebell to prevent injuries and poor posture. Once you have learned how to use it, this fitness device is an absolute all-rounder when it comes to home gyms.

Shopping-Tipp: You can order a kettlebell directly from Amazon.*

Also read:The best kettlebell exercises: full body training with the power ball

Strength training exercises should be carried out cleanly

You shouldn't just start using the free weights area without instructions, as serious posture errors can creep in, which can sometimes even result in serious injuries. More and more studios are also offering special courses in which you can learn what is important when lifting weights.

Of course, endurance shouldn't be forgotten either.

Nonetheless:Girls, finally dare to use the weights (yes, this also includes your own body weight) and don't waste your time

only

on the cardio machines or running through the park.

If you don't know exactly what you want yet, you can try out an online training program, such as the virtual gymGymondo*.

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By the way:Sophia Thiel shares her knowledge and motivates free of charge via Instagram or YouTube (yes, the content is still available, although the athlete has since withdrawn from the public).

Important note at the end:Your body is as individual as your character. You have to find out for yourself which diet and which form of training suits you best. Don't let others put pressure on you. In principle, however, the following applies: an active lifestyle with a balanced diet and lots of exercise is still the best way to stay fit over the long term and achieve or maintain a healthy weight.