The Four Fallacies of Exercise and Femininity

1. Lifting weights or strength training will give you a masculine physique.

   For most women, building large muscles is very difficult. This is because of the fact that women have very low (but not actually zero) levels of the hormone testosterone. This hormone, which is more evident on males, influences muscle growth. These two things are the prerequisites for an individual to have a bulky body:

   • An adequate amount of androgenic hormones, primarily testosterone must be present in the bloodstream and
   • One must also consider the genetic potential available in the muscle itself.

   Long muscle bellies and short tendon attachments are also factors.

2. Exercise should be stopped when you are pregnant.

   This is true at least, during the last three months of pregnancy. Very little danger of miscarriage is imposed when a pregnant woman is running, jumping or even horseback riding (!) especially when she is accustomed to strenuous exercise.

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   But of course, there are some exceptions to this rule. Like when someone is suffering from abnormal pregnancy or has a heart disease.

3. Women who exercise tend to have smaller breasts etc.

   Women tend to build firmer –not bulkier– muscles. Another reason for this is the presence of a subcutaneous layer of fat. The body will retain the female contours or more — it will enhance them. Muscular development of the chest enhances the breast line; the hips and thighs are also slimmed by exercise.

4. It is unnecessary to continue a fitness program during menstruation.

   The question is why? The decision should be made with overall considerations of health and attitude rather than with your menstrual period.

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