The Strength Shift: Why Lifting Weights Is the New Running (and How to Start)

5. Women Breaking Barriers in Weight Rooms

Forget the outdated belief that the weight room is only for men or that women who lift become "too muscular." The reality? Muscular “bulk” takes years of concentrated effort and specialized nutrition—a truth championed by both trainers and science. Elizabeth Davies, celebrated for her expertise in women’s strength training, puts it plainly: “Gaining visible muscle isn’t something that just happens; it’s the result of focused training and diet, not picking up weights a few times a week.” The shift is visible everywhere: more women than ever are making space for themselves on the gym floor, in classes, and in leadership roles. Gyms are responding, introducing women-friendly sessions, open instruction, and supportive environments that help everyone feel seen. This new landscape empowers women to build strength without fear—knowing they're investing in lifelong confidence, capability, and health.

6. Not Just for Athletes: Accessible Gains at Every Age

There’s no “perfect age” to start lifting weights. Recent research has pushed aside old myths about kids’ growth being stunted by strength training. When supervised and age-appropriate, even children and teens benefit—gaining bone density and coordination, not to mention a positive relationship with movement. Older adults, too, see some of the greatest rewards. Maintaining muscle keeps you mobile and independent, whether that means carrying groceries, playing with grandkids, or enjoying walks outdoors. Training at your own pace (and with accommodations for any health conditions) makes lifting a lifelong companion, not a fleeting habit reserved for athletes. No matter where you start, the path forward is welcoming. With patience and the right guidance, benefits are universal—all ages, all stages.