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Weight Lifting: 3 Reasons It’s Not Just for the Boys

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Wake Forest chapter.

If you’re like me, then you’re sick and tired of seeing college gyms divided; girls on cardio machines and boys in the weight room. Weight lifting bears many health benefits that you could be missing out on by just sticking to your normal cardio routine. Break the norm, and go crash the boy’s side of the gym by grabbing some weights!

You’ll Burn More Calories

Body composition (i.e. the amount of muscle mass you have relative to fat) is a major contributor to metabolism. Resistance training helps build muscle mass, and therefore keep your metabolism up. The higher your metabolism, the more calories you’ll be able to burn during and after workouts

Your Heart Will Thank You

When your muscles are stronger it places less demand on your heart. The less your heart has to work the better. In addition, strength training has been shown to have a positive effect on blood pressure – a major indicator of heart health.

You’ll Be Happier

Strength training (and just exercise in general) is known to cause the release of endorphins. These endorphins can help reduce stress and depression, and induce relaxation. Not to mention you’ll feel strong and powerful after a tough workout with some heavy weights!

Hope to see you all at the gym!

*Cover Image from www.gymgeek.com

Hi Demon Deacons! I'm Caroline and I'm a freshman here at Wake Forest. This year i'll be writing for "Haute and Healthy" and Campus Cutie! 
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Betsy Mann

Wake Forest