Frequently Asked Questions - Strength

Q. Do I have to join a gym to perform strength training exercise?

Although obtaining guidance from a knowledgeable professional is important, joining a gym is not a prerequisite for starting an effective weight training program. Resistance training can be performed almost anywhere - it just requires some creativity. Using props such as stairs, stability balls, resistance bands and tubing can be extremely effective, and used right in your own home. If you're really serious about resistance training though, investing in a versatile, high quality home gym is recommended.

-- Jessica Smith, Fitness Consultant

Q. Will strength training make my muscles large and bulky?

The ability to increase the size of your muscles is highly dependent on hormone levels - namely testosterone. And since men have 20 to 30 times the testosterone levels of women, men will tend to build more muscle than women. It's important to keep in mind, however, that the type of strength training you engage in as well as genetics and individual differences will all play a role in the rate and degree to which you build muscle mass.

-- Jessica Smith, Fitness Consultant