Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus was a popular book released in the early 1990s about the differences, mostly in personality, between men and women. But does this saying need to be applied to the gym setting as well? Are there really big differences between the way men and women need to work out?
The simple answer is yes. Why? Mostly because of the reasons women want and feel they need to exercise-in particular strength training. The top two reasons I’ve heard women give for working out are: to lose weight and to prevent osteoporosis. When you train for these reasons, the exercises, you must seriously consider the pairings, sets, reps, and intensity you choose to get the most benefit from your time in the gym.
In starting a new exercise plan, I strongly suggest meeting with a trainer or coach to discuss your goals and properly evaluate your needs, even if you plan on implementing the routine by yourself. Trying to supplement your regular walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or other cardio routine is a difficult task while trying to balance a full-time job (that includes child rearing!) and other life challenges. The best chance of success is utilizing a plan that is feasible, both in time and difficulty, and has been formulated by an educated personal trainer.
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Brian Diaz, MPT, CSCS, is the head physical therapist and sports specialist at ActivEdge Fitness & Sports Performance in Durham and Chapel Hill. Brian sees athletes of all ages and sports for injuries as well as athletic enhancement. He sneaks in training every opportunity he gets since his son, Braden, was born in late August. For more information, please visit www.ExperienceTheEdge.com.
