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Strength training has a number of benefits for women. Here are 4 ways to get started with weight training

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Imagine a gym from a decade ago: the weight room was a largely male-dominated space, with women doing most of their cardio. Fast-forward to today, and you will probably see women of all ages and backgrounds confidently navigating the weights.

This is greater than just an anecdote. According to data from Australian Sports Commissionnumber of women participating in weightlifting (each competitively and non-competitively) increased almost fivefold between 2016 and 2022.

Women are discovering what research has long shown: strength training has benefits that transcend sculpting muscle.

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Health benefits

Osteoporosisdisease by which bones change into weak and brittle, affects more women than men. Strength training increases bone densitya key factor for prevention of osteoporosisespecially for women going through menopause.

Strength training also improves insulin sensitivitywhich implies your body is healthier at using insulin to control your blood sugar levels, reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular strength training helps to improve heart health too.

There can be an improvement in mental health. Strength training has been linked to reduced symptoms depression AND Bow.

Strength training can provide a number of health benefits.
Ground Photo/Shutterstock

Improving self-confidence and body image

Unlike some forms of exercise where progress can seem elusive, strength training offers clear and tangible measures of success. Every time you add more weight to the bar, you remind yourself of your ability to achieve your goals and overcome challenges.

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This sense of achievement is not only limited to the gym – it will possibly change the way in which women see themselves. last examination Studies have shown that girls who lift weights repeatedly often feel more motivated to make positive changes of their lives and prepared to face the challenges that life outside the gym brings.

Strength training also has the potential to have a positive impact body imageIn a world where women are often judged by their appearance, lifting weights can shift the main focus function.

Instead of worrying in regards to the number on the size or fitting into a certain dress size, women often start appreciating their bodies for what they’ll do. “Am I lifting more than I could last month?” and “Can I carry all my groceries in one go?” can change into the brand new measures of physical success.

A young woman smiles in a gym locker room.
Strength training can have a positive impact on the perception of a woman’s body.
Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

Lifting weights can be about difficult outdated ideas of what women “should” seem like. Qualitative tests My colleagues and I conducted research that showed that for many ladies, strength training becomes a powerful form of revolt against unrealistic beauty standards. As one participant told us:

I wanted something that will allow me to train, irrespective of what I looked like.

Society has long told women to be small, quiet, and never take up space. But when a woman steps up to the barbell, she defies these outdated rules. One woman in our study said:

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We haven’t got to (…) look a certain way or (…) be afraid that we will lift heavier weights than some men. Why would we?

This shift in attitude helps women see themselves in a different way. Instead of worrying about being objects that others will take a look at, they start to see their bodies as capable and robust. Another participant explained:

Lifting weights modified my life. It made me see myself or my body. My body wasn’t my value, it was a vehicle for me to do what I did in life.

This newfound confidence often carries over into other areas of life. As one woman said:

I like being a strong woman. It’s like going against the grain and it makes me stronger. When I’m physically strong, all the pieces on the earth seems lighter.

Feeling inspired? Here’s how to get started

1. Take your time

Start with body weight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups to construct a foundation of strength. Once you are feeling comfortable, add external weights, but keep them light at first. Focus on mastering compound movements like deadlifts, squats, and overhead presses. These exercises work multiple joints and muscle groups without delay, making your workouts simpler.

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2. Prioritize proper form

Always concentrate on proper form over lifting heavier weights. Poor form can lead to injury, so learning how to do each exercise appropriately is vital. To enable you to overcome this, consider working with an exercise skilled who can provide personalized guidance and be sure you’re doing the exercises appropriately, at the very least at first.

Woman taking a lunge outdoors.
Bodyweight exercises similar to lunges are a great way to start lifting weights.
antoniodiaz/Shutterstock

3. Consistency is vital

As with any fitness program, consistency is vital. Two to three sessions per week is enough for most ladies to see benefits. And don’t be afraid to take up space within the gym—remember, you belong there identical to anyone else.

4. Find a community

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Finally, join a community. There’s nothing like being surrounded by a group of strong women to encourage and motivate you. Engaging in a supportive community could make your strength training journey more enjoyable and rewarding, whether it’s a live class or an internet forum.

Are there any disadvantages?

Gym memberships will be expensive, especially for specialist weightlifting gyms. Home equipment is an option, but high-quality barbells and weightlifting equipment can come at a high price.

Additionally, for women who’ve to mix work with family responsibilities, finding time to go to the gym two or thrice a week will be a challenge.

If you are afraid of becoming too “abundant”, it is extremely difficult women gain muscle mass like bodybuilders, without the use of pharmaceuticals.

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The biggest risks come from poor technique or trying to lift an excessive amount of weight too soon – problems that may easily be avoided with a little guidance.

 

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com

Health and Wellness

The investigation showed that there are less CDC health warnings

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The study reveals that health warnings from disease control centers (CDC) have It decreased amongst explosions across the country.

As the very best within the country, the healthcare agency, CDC goals to save lots of lives and protect people from health threats through critical scientific research and health information. However, as NPR notes, communication with the audience on its platforms died down or was not recurrently updated, as before.

“It works best when his experts can convey the work they do in real time, and this does not happen,” said Kevin Griffis, former communication director at CDC until March.

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He says that people’s lives could be threatened without critical health updates.

Which has modified to CDC

Before the inauguration of President Donald Trump, CDC managed most of her communication through social media platforms and newsletters. The staff communicated health messages every single day, weekly, monthly and quarterly via their network of 150 Bulletins on topics, including diabetes and food safety.

After the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Health and Social Welfare, who supervises CDC, instructed CDC to vary his communication. Trump The administration sent directives to HHS, which stopped communication At the National Institutes of Health, FDA and CDC until further notice, reports.

As Americans, the change in CDC in health warnings affects

Social media is considered one of the fastest and effective ways to disseminate CDC information. Doctors, scientists and researchers could quickly update the platforms. CDC has over 13 million people on Instagram, X, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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ACLeading to the NPR study, some publications that died down include CDC and a weekly publication on diseases. This is among the many historical growth of the Oder in some parts of the USA, Salmonella, Listeria and Viral Inflammation A and C.

The approval of HHS is currently a requirement for publishingBut CDC employees told investigators that the health department officials didn’t accept their content Social media.

However, the communication director at HHS Andrew Nixon says that CDC staff spread false rumors.

Looking on the CDC social media account, Last post on the foremost Facebook The page is a reel with germs and humidifiers on March 31 on the time of this report.

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In the last post of May 14, preliminary data showing a decrease in overdose deaths in 2023–2024 was discussed. Post previously responded to the message of May 3 on inaccurate reports.

(Tagstranslate) Centers for control and prevention of diseases (T) CDC (T) Department of Health and Social Welfare

This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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Health and Wellness

Do you think you are too late to build wealth? This is why your 40th is actually the perfect time – essence

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Do you think you are too late to build wealth? This is why your 40th is actually the perfect time

Portrait of a stupendous and trendy young woman on a white background

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For many ladies, achieving a 40-yr-old character is a key moment.

Career stability is often in place, life is in full bloom, and the vision of the next many years begins to crystallize. But for many who haven’t yet began saving for retirement, the same milestone could cause a distinct feeling – a shade. Racquel Oden, head of property management at HSBC USA, is determined to dismantle the myth that it is too late to start constructing wealth.

“The biggest barrier is the fear of starting and the feeling that it is too late,” divides Oden. “I am always clear with everyone – there is no such thing. It is never too late to start thinking about financial health, breath and investing.”

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Confrontation with fear and variability

Traveling towards financial security is often affected by fear – especially in the climate of economic variability. Inflation, changing markets and an unpredictable global economy could make the idea of ​​investing more discouraging than ever. Oden recognizes these reality, but encourages women to confront them.

“Regardless of whether you are in the 1920s, 1930s, 40 or even the 50s, we all feel the same uncertainty,” he explains. “At the moment, many people are paralyzed – they are doing nothing because they do not know what to do. But it’s time to get involved and not reverse. When such an active administration introduces changes every day, it is important to remain active in their investments.”

Instead of avoiding market fluctuations, Oden encourages women to accept financial knowledge as a tool to strengthen. “Understanding how your money works is the first step to grow it,” he insists. “The variability we see is not a reason to resign – this is a reason to resist and learn.”

Building wealth, not only reading skills

Under the leadership of ODEN HSBC, USA focuses on raising financial knowledge amongst women and colourful communities, but he wants to focus outside of education and creating tangible wealth. Through initiatives corresponding to Workshops on the aspiration of wealth, HSBC USA equips women with the ability to build generational wealth.

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“We only need to bypass the ability to read and go towards creating wealth,” emphasizes Oden. “It is not enough to understand what a check account is – you need to know how to earn your money.”

Oden suggests that considered one of the fundamental steps is simply starting. Regardless of whether it is 401 (K), Roth IRA, or diverse investments in shares and everlasting income, the key is to engage in financial planning. “Many women think:” I haven’t got enough to hire a wealth advisor, “but that’s not true. It is about obtaining the right advice, not necessarily having millions in the bank, “he confirms.

Oden also emphasizes the strength of building clear financial goals. “Financial literary without a plan is just information,” he explains. “What are you building? House? Comfortable pension? Set the goal to make your investments a goal.”

Intelligent investments for late starters

In the case of ladies starting their financial travels at the age of 40, Oden recommends low -risk investments that also offer a solid return. “Treasuries now have a good return. Gold is extremely popular, and hedge funds can be intelligent arts,” he advises. “You want to separate your long -term needs from short -term and make sure that your money is still working for you, even if you are just starting.”

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He also emphasizes the importance of remaining in the market despite its variability, citing that many individuals will paralyze fear. “If you withdrew, you would miss the fact that he literally returned to the place where he was – slightly above. Stay on the course with what you have.”

According to Oden, the 40s. They are also a really perfect time for looking for skilled financial advice. “Because you have a shorter window – maybe 10, 15 or 20 years – it is important to get professional tips. It also receives anxiety related to thinking, you need to know everything about investments. That is what a financial planner is for.”

Heritage constructing: why does it matter

Oden also wants women to understand that constructing wealth is not just for individual safety – it is about heritage. “When you take control of your finances, you not only influence your life. You establish a standard for your children, communities and generations,” he says. “We need more black women building wealth, not only for today, but for the future.”

Looking into the future, definitely

Despite the challenges, Oden believes that girls aged 40 are in a perfect position to take control of their financial future. “You are not too late. The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is today,” he insists.

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Thanks to strategic planning, reasonable investments and the right suggestions, constructing wealth after 40 is not only possible – this is powerful. “Wealth is not just about money; it is about freedom,” sums up Oden. “And every woman deserves it.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Why the quality of gait is important as it ages

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Walking is one of the most important things that we do for our quality of life. In fact, Research shows It contributes greater than another physical activity in how well we live overnight. Already one in three People over the age of 60 report some difficulties in walking.

With age, gradual changes in our bodies and health can change the way I walk, often without realizing. But the way we go, known as our gait pattern, is more important than we might sound. Poor gait not only makes walking harder and more tiring; It can result in joint deformation, instability and greater risk of falls.

Think about your walk like a heart rhythm. Like electrocardiogram (EKG) shows whether your heart works properly, your walk also has a rhythm. When this rhythm is turned off, it will be one of the earliest signs that you’ll not age as well as you’ll be able to.

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Thanks New technologyWe can now easier and thoroughly measure the quality of gait. One promising tool is Heel2toe wearing sensor. This small device attaches to the shoe and follows the movement of the ankle while walking, grabbing the series of gait in real time.



A healthy step begins with a heavy heel impact. Your weight moves on the sole of the foot, ending with pushing out of your toes. When the foot rises, it changes cleanly – without dragging or drawing. This smooth sequence creates a rhythm in the movement of the ankle, which, when it is coherent, resembles the type of “walking ECG”.

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But with time, Many individuals are unknowingly accepting Less efficient movement patterns. These modified gaits could appear normal, but they are sometimes unstable, tiring or dangerous.

The older man fell to the floor while walking
A weak gait can increase the risk of falls.
https://www.shtterstock.com/image-photo/asian-senior-palling-on-grund-2147078055

Weak gait reduces confidenceIt increases the risk of falling and might discourage people from walking in any respect. The less we walk, the weaker our muscles turn out to be – deterioration of the problem. This is a flawed cycle.

Giving as much as walk well

The excellent news is that we are able to Losing our gait.

The Heel2toe sensor not only monitors your movements – that is also Encourages higher walking. When he detects a superb step (the one which starts with a heavy heel impact), provides audio guidance as positive feedback. Over time, the following pointers help discover a stronger, more stable walking pattern. Good gait becomes your latest norm. Tools such as Heel2toe help people tune in to their body signals and achieve sustainable progress.

The goal is not only to maneuver – it’s higher.

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Of course, being physically energetic is Only one aspect What does it mean to live well as you aged.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjujlrx9GC

To get a more complete picture of healthy aging Researchers have developed A tool that measures how often older adults experience key facets of well -being. This tool – a tan measure (elderly people to energetic life) – goes beyond tracking what people do. He asks how they feel about their lives.

Opal may help people understand their very own well -being and offers decision -makers and communities a option to assess how their services support older residents – not only physically, but in addition socially and emotionally.

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For people, which means that even small improvements, such as higher gait, can result in significant changes in how you’re feeling: more confident, more mobile and more independent.

For the community, it is a reminder that promoting physical activity is important – but insufficient. We also need programs, spaces and services that support the combination, goal, creativity and joy.

What does “active life” really mean?

IN International study 2024Older adults in Canada, Great Britain, the USA and the Netherlands shared, which suggests “active life” for them – in 4 languages ​​and cultural contexts.

They identified 17 different “ways of being” that contribute to activity. Physical health was just one part. Others included the feeling: self -confidence, combined, creative, energized, encouraged, engaged, glad, mentally healthy, independent, interested, mentally, motivated, resistant and self -sufficient.

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In other words, energetic life is not only taking (or counting) steps, it’s about how you’re feeling while taking them.

Aging is inevitable. But is getting old well? This is something that we are able to shape – step-by-step.

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This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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