Will lifting weights make me bulky?

If you exercise regularly – to manage your weight, maintain mobility, or just to clear your head – but you’re not including weight training as part of your routine, you may be missing out.

When you combine weight training with regular cardio and flexibility workouts such as running or walking and yoga, you add the unique physical and psychological benefits that come from lifting weights. For example, you can actually replace the lean muscle your body naturally loses as you age.

Weight training isn’t just for bodybuilders

There’s no denying that muscle definition and strength will change the way you look. But weight training is about more than just appearances. That extra muscle can help keep your weight under control, improve or maintain mobility, reduce the likelihood of falls as you age, and even reduce the signs and symptoms of many chronic conditions, including arthritis, back pain, obesity, heart disease, depression, and diabetes.

Strength training may also help you:

• Increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Increase your metabolism to help you burn more calories.
• Improve your ability to do everyday activities.
• Protect your joints from injury.
• May help improve thinking and learning skills for older adults.
• Increase production of neurotransmitters leading to better mood and balanced state of mind.

Disregard the Myth

If you’ve avoided heavy weight training because you’re worried it may result in a bulky-looking physique, rest assured that isn’t the case. While it’s true that lifting heavy will increase your muscle size and definition, the true culprit that leads to bulky physiques is fat accumulation.

Excess body fat is what most often causes a bulky look in both men and women. And including weight training as part of your fitness routine can actually help you lose body fat to achieve a strong, lean appearance.

Start Strong… and Smart.

Whether you’re considering weight training as a way to improve athletic performance, improve your quality of life, or push physical signs of aging down the road a bit, it’s important to consult with your physician before you get started, particularly if you’re new to weight training. A quick conversation with your doctor can help set you on the right course to achieve your goals and steer clear of potential injuries, too.

Consider a visit with a specialist at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine to learn more about how a weight training program can help you improve your overall bone health or enhance your athletic performance. Since 1972, these specialists have been committed to providing exceptional orthopaedic care through innovative techniques, quality services, patient communication, and education. With specialties ranging from general orthopaedics and physical therapy to sports medicine and more, the doctors at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine can provide local expert guidance to avoid injury, as well as any necessary care for any orthopaedic disorder or injury to help keep yourself healthy and pain-free.