In this article, we’re going to work hard to debunk that myth and show you just how beneficial strength training can be for moms. Additionally, we’re going to take a deep dive into what kind of movements you should incorporate and when you can start training postpartum. So, if you’re someone who wants to learn more about this topic, then allow us to dive right in. 

Is Strength Training Beneficial for Moms? 

There is a very common belief amongst women that strength training will 100% turn them into the female version of the Hulk. And that’s why they avoid it like the plague. However, this is one of the wildest and most factually wrong beliefs in the fitness world, as it’s practically impossible for women to get as big as men without taking any banned substances.

That’s due to the fact that women have lower testosterone than men, and that’s the hormone responsible for muscle growth and hypertrophy. Lower levels of testosterone generally mean that it’s impossible for women to gain as much muscle, and it’s also harder for them to do it, which is why, typically, women’s fitness progress is much slower than men's. 

With that said, there’s plenty that strength training can do for your body in order for it to be healthy and for you to feel better. Let’s take a look. 

Daily Tasks Will Become Easier

Resistance training helps you build muscle, which helps you get stronger, and that applies not only to your muscles but to your bones as well. As a result, you will find that daily tasks you face as a mother, such as carrying your kid, a stroller, laundry, and groceries, are becoming easier and easier. Along with that, you will find that your coordination and body awareness are improving, meaning you will feel much more comfortable moving your body, and you will be much more efficient when doing daily activities. 

You Will Feel Less Stressed

Your family is a source of great joy and happiness, but at times, it’s also a source of massive stress. Especially when your kids are little, and you need to find the time to balance between working and family life. Many women tend to burn out during this period as they dedicate a large portion of their lives to other people and don’t leave any time for themselves. 

Well, training, and more specifically, strength training, is a way to change that - it allows you to take an hour or two to yourself as alone time, and in that time, you can do movement, which naturally decreases cortisol levels and releases serotonin, so that you’re happy and content when you go home. 

It Makes You Feel Better 

Besides the obvious fact that when you train, you start to gain muscle, lose weight, and generally look better, training also makes you feel better. You’re doing something for yourself, you’re taking care of your body, and you’re setting a good example for your kids as to what they should be up to as they grow older. 

This feeling that you’re doing the right thing for yourself and you’re seeing results will give you newfound confidence and will make postpartum depression easier to handle. It will also give you a hobby that you can keep later when your kids grow and aren’t so dependent on you anywhere. 

What Do You Need for Strength Training? 

Another major misconception is that strength training can be done only at the gym or that it requires tons of specific equipment. The reality, however, is that you can do it in the comfort of your home with a pair of dumbbells, a kettlebell, some resistance bands, and a pull-up bar. In the beginning, that is all you will need to start developing muscles and increase your strength. As time goes by and you become stronger, you may alter your workouts by increasing reps, sets, and intensity. Along with that, besides the obvious training clothing, you will need a pair of proper workout shoes - ones that allow you to run, jump, and lift without risking any injuries. 

In Conclusion

If you’re a mom and you were wondering about starting strength training, hopefully, this article serves as your green light to go ahead and do it. Even if the beginning is difficult, soon, you will start repeating the benefits, and you will quickly become convinced that this is the best decision you have made in your life.