Why lift weights?

I get asked this question a lot. And there is a misconception that lifting weights is only for men. Everyone (men, women, young, and old) can benefit from a weight training program. Especially if you want to lose fat and change your body one of the most important things you can do is lift weights. Diet and cardio are equally important, but when it comes to changing how your body looks, weight training wins hands down. If you've hesitated to start a strength training program, it may motivate you to know that lifting weights can:

• Help raise your metabolism. Muscle burns more calories than fat, so the more muscle you have, the more calories you'll burn all day long.
• Strengthen bones, especially important for women in preventing osteoporosis
  
• Make you stronger and increase muscular endurance
• Help you avoid injuries
• Increase your confidence and self-esteem
• Improve coordination and balance

There are all sorts of programs, machines, and routines so just start doing something. Ideally at least twice a week. If you don't have a gym membership you are not out of luck. Some of the best exercises you can do are push ups, sit ups, lunges, and squats.