I get asked this question a lot….starting weight training in a gym for women, many seem to have this worry. So if you want to know if weight training makes you bulky then I will give you the answer in this post!
Think about this…..body builders and powerlifters do not instantly get big! It takes lots of hard heavy training and eating a lot of food. So if you eat and train like to that extent then yes you will see muscle growth and bulk!
Even if you train heavy, you will not see “bulk” unless you are eating enough to warrant this. You would need to know the best food to eat to gain muscle for a start.
So my answer is NO … to you if you want to know if weight training makes you bulky!
Women starting weight training need to firstly decide what their goal is for eg…
- General all over tone
- More definition and muscle shape
- Target certain areas more than others for shape change
- Strengthen certain areas
When you are clear on your goal, then you need a program to get started. You could research and find one online or contact a Personal Trainer – online or 1-1. At the very least you need some personal trainer tips for beginners, if that’s what you are. Just ensure the program you decide to follow matches what you are aiming for.
To give you an idea…if you are wanting general all over tone – a program will probably consist of exercises for every body part doing around 12-15 reps each set. (if you are performing this many reps then its unlikely you are training too heavy….you would do less reps and heavier weight for muscle growth). Research best strength training routines or weight training routines.
Lastly your diet needs to be in line with your training and goals. Remember…your results come 80% from your diet. All you need is a balanced healthy eating plan which provides you with the right amounts of good carbs, protein and good fats which your body needs. You definitely need to ensure you are not under eating when you start weight training as this can hinder your results. Research meal prep or what to eat to gain muscle.
