Calling all my weightlifting women - we need to stick together. Between the reputation that people have about lifting weights, and some of the people we have to deal in the weight room, we all need to be on the same team. From my experiences as a girl that likes to lift weights, I have developed a list of the common struggles I go through, and if you're a girl that lifts weights I'm sure you're right there with me!
1. You have to deal with people thinking that weightlifting makes you look like the Hulk.
The number of times I have heard, "I'm going to use light weights because I just want to look toned." Ladies, I am here to tell you that curling those three-pound weights isn't going to get you anything, toned or otherwise. You have to challenge your muscles past what they are comfortable doing to see any results. But lifting heavy will not get you looking like the picture on the left - that requires spending hours at the gym while consuming ridiculous amounts of calories and protein and probably... other substances as well.
2. You have to deal with the steroid junkies.
Yes, I am there to work out. No, I am not there to hear you scream-grunt your way through your workout. Every gym has these guys, and when you have to work out right next to them in the weight room, it can get really old really quickly.
3. You also have to deal with "That guy."
These people may be worse than the steroid junkies, and when you're trying to get through a workout in a weight room that usually only has one or two of each machine, these guys can be a day ruiner. But seriously if this is you, just know you're probably getting dirty looks from everyone in the room.
4. You're hungry ALL THE TIME.
This is just one of the things that comes along with the hard work you're putting in at the gym, but that is a tough explanation when your friends are watching you inhale your second dinner of the night.
5. People might find you intimidating.
There is something about lifting the same amount of weight as the guy next to you that gives you a confidence, and sometimes that can come off as intimidating to those around you. I have been asked multiple times if I am listening to hard-core rap while I'm lifting, because apparently my exhaustion comes off as more of a scowl that may intimidate those around me a little.
6. Cardio is just so boring.
After lifting weights and feeling the surge of adrenaline, it is so hard to get back to boring, repetitive cardio. I mean, couldn't I just squat faster or something?
7. Looking presentable is difficult when you can hardly lift your arms.
I am a morning workout person which is great when I get my day started already feeling accomplished, but not so great when I am supposed to be putting in makeup for work and I can't even lift my arm long enough to put on mascara.
