The Myth of Lifting Heavy Weights Makes You Bulky 🏋️💪

Bri Ahlers
Aug 16, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Aug 17, 2022

We all have that dream physique we want for ourselves. We all have our own fitness and health goals. We all have an idea of how to reach that perfect versions of ourselves. So, what's the secret? How do we get that perfect body? The truth is that the journey can be different for every body.

I love hearing everyone share their fitness journeys, the things they've read, and the things they've seen. My clients and students love to share their stories and they love to ask questions.The most asked question I get as a trainer: should I be lifting weights? I don't want to get bulky.

It's commonly asked about heavy weight training, especially among my female clients, that lifting heavy weights will make you bulky. It’s true that lifting heavy weights will promote hypertrophy (an increase and growth of muscle cells) leading to a size increase. However, the idea that it leads to a “bulky" look is actually a myth.

So what does lead to that bulky look? The true answer: a higher percentage of body fat. An excessive amount of body fat is what causes both men and women to appear bulky. So how do you reach that desired physique? Have a fairly low body fat percentage. Believe it or not, lifting heavy weights can help accomplish this.

If you're still not convinced, that's okay! It can be mind over matter when it comes to reaching our fitness goals. If you don't want to lift heavy weights, for whatever reason, then don't! The best way to reach your health goal is to do something that you enjoy. If you enjoy it, you'll be consistent with it.

Looking for something different from heavy weight lifting? Are large franchise gyms, the heavy machinery, and intimating rack of weights not your style? Come try a low impact workout with us! Barre, yoga, Pilates, and more! We'll show you how to lose weight, build muscle, properly use light props, and you get to meet some amazing people. 👯‍♀️