When it comes to exercise, men and women have very different needs. Women have unique fitness, health and workout goals, and very different problem areas to men. For this reason, it’s essential that women follow an exercise programme that is not only tailored to feminine needs, but also to their personal exercise requirements.
Both men and women work out in order to lose weight and be healthy. But, while men often aim to build muscle and “bulk up”, women want to slim down, toning without developing large muscles or adding bulk to their frames.
Men, for example, are often encouraged to embark on more intense weight training than women – doing fewer repetitions of exercises with heavier weights in order to build muscle. Women may do some of the same exercises, but they’ll usually do more repetitions with lighter weights (but not light weights), in order to slim and tone rather than build muscle.
There are a number of myths that abound regarding workouts for women, and you can find out more about them here. Alternatively, read on for helpful women’s workout tips.
Ideal women’s workout routines: Tips and advice
It’s been found that often, for women, it’s best to exercise the whole body during every workout session – especially for those who want to lose weight. While men may focus on different muscle groups on different days, it can be quite beneficial for women to undertake full body training during each session. Full body workouts could either be completing the whole training circuit during a single session, or participating in an activity that targets all muscles groups, such as aerobic classes, dancing or spinning classes.
Another important factor to consider is that a woman’s workout must place some focus on her bust – or more precisely, on building muscle supporting her bust. One of the most effective ways to reduce sagging as women age is by strengthening the pectoral, upper back, shoulder and arm muscles.
The most significant difference between men’s and women’s bodies is the fact that a woman’s body is built for reproduction. In designing an effective women’s workout routine, it’s important to include exercises that strengthen the abdominal and back muscles. This will help to support the body during pregnancy, and to ensure that you’re in the best possible shape during this period of your life.
Finally, it’s vital to realise that men’s and women’s workout preferences are different. And, when it comes to exercise and sticking with your programme, it’s crucial that you choose exercises that you enjoy doing – otherwise you’ll throw in the towel. Group exercise classes are generally frequented by women – think of yoga, Pilates, aerobic workouts and ab classes, to name just a few.
While both men and women are encouraged to join these group training sessions, it’s mainly women who do them. So, think about the types of exercises you enjoy doing, and remember that you don’t have to spend 20 minutes sweating it out on the rowing machine if you’d prefer to do a dance class instead.
Get a tailor-made women’s workout at Virgin Active today
Next time you visit your favourite Virgin Active Health Club, ask someone from the fitness team to advise you on the most effective exercise for your individual exercise needs. He or she will be able to help you target the right muscles, using the right exercises, thereby helping you to develop the body you desire. They’ll also introduce you to a wide range of exercise options and group training classes, so that you can craft a unique, enjoyable and effective exercise plan to stick to.
Find your nearest Virgin Active Health Club now, or join today if you’re not yet a member.
