Strength Training Books For Women

Knowing how to workout properly is critical for injury avoidance and long-term health. Women have not always been encouraged to participate in strength training exercises, mistakenly believing that they will develop bulky muscles. However, the hormonal physiology in women's bodies doesn't encourage the growth of large musculature. A good strength training book makes this information readily apparent, both in the text and photos or diagrams accompanying the information. In addition, a good strength training book for women takes into account the anatomical differences between men and women, ensuring the exercises are supportive of a woman's health and workout goals.

Significance

Strength training books for women can encourage proper exercise. Physiologically, women are more prone to certain injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, injuries. While it isn't entirely clear why a woman's knees are more susceptible to injury, strength conditioning of the quadriceps seems to lead to fewer injuries and helps correct any muscle imbalance. When searching for a strength training book for women, look for one that specifically identifies quadriceps strengthening exercises and appropriately illustrates correct form.

Considerations

Look for a book written by a certified or scientifically trained author. While the author needn't be a woman, it's helpful to find a book written by someone who understands the physiological and anatomical needs of a woman's body. An author trained in kinesiology or sports therapy can provide strong background in the provided training exercises. In addition, competitive female weightlifters who write in conjunction with a trained fitness professional can provide real-world experience to help bolster the content for you.

Warning

Avoid strength training books written decades ago. While some fitness professionals of this era have found significant success, many of these exercises are not appropriate for women's bodies and can lead to damaged joints. These classics are useful as tools to identify target exercises, base your workout on books that use current anatomical and scientific information of women's needs, not strength training in general.

Features

Strength training provides long-term benefits to women. Not only can it help minimize the potential for osteoporosis by building bone and muscle mass, but it can also help manage your weight as gaining muscle increases your metabolic rate. Books that encourage you to start a routine and provide clear instructions make strength training more accessible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, in recognition of the health benefits of weight training, offer a series of books called the "Strong Women" series that help women and communities focus on strength training.

Theories/Speculation

While strength training books for women are readily available, consider purchasing a book that incorporates dietary suggestions as well. While everyone needs to eat after a workout, the MayoClinic.com notes that women have particular nutritional needs, especially after strength training. They recommend that women eat more protein after strength training. Look for a book that incorporates this suggestion along with other healthy diet advice for women to make your strength training program as successful as possible.