I lift because... my husband has a seizure disorder and I wanted to make it my mission to be able to lift his bodyweight, in case I should ever need to! He's a big dude (6 foot and 215 pounds) and I'm quite little.... (5'2 - 125 lbs). We had an incident before I decided to lift, where he had a seizure while we were at a restaurant and getting him to floor from a seated position, safely, was incredibly difficult for me. I vowed to never not be able to take care for him/create a safe space for him, again. I've been lifting heavy for just over a year now, and have PR'd with a 150 pound back squat, and 205 deadlift (getting close to that goal!!) - it makes me feel incredibly empowered and secure! Even outside of that very personal goal, I've really come to LOVE lifting and recommend it to ALL of my female friends!
Your love and caring for your husband is beautiful. Think about the comfort in life he has knowing you are there for him. Paige you are awesome, keep lifting.
Shouldn't lift a person having a seizure until after the seizure is over. Best thing to do is clear the area and lie him on the floor moving everything away from him until the episode is over!!
myah084 don’t worry, I’m fully aware of this fact.... see above where I mentioned it was a struggle to safely get him to the ground, so to let him ride out the seizure without a fall added to the mix. ;) (coming from a seizure caretaker with years of experience)
Possible trigger warning I lift heavy because after I was raped lifting made me feel empowered & gave me a healthy outlet for my anger. It allowed me to use all the negative emotions & energy in a positive way.
I lift because as stefi cohen said; "be more concerned with what your body can do for you rather that what it can do for others" and lifting helps me appreciate my body more.
I'm a woman and I lift (heavy) because not only does it feel good but everyday life gets easier. Things like going up stairs, walking up hills, carrying groceries. Things being heavy and difficult is no longer a problem. I can do it myself and it feels great!
God bless you. My late mom was 69 when the most unforeseen thing happened resulting in her being confined to a wheelchair for the remaining 17 1/2 yrs of her life. Every year and month was a battle to make sure she could remain functional in the home. She was a fighter and enjoyed her time mostly even after her illness, but always feared nursing homes and being a burden. I kept her at the house until last 10 months of her life (went to assisted living [not nursing home] just two miles from home and I brought her home daily for those months). I think her time, however, would've been easier if she had undergone strength training but mom was a southern woman born in a rural county in 1931...some things a woman just didn't do!...Like sweat and even hint at grunting (not so any men might hear). If she had pursued that as a hobby or diligently for decades before her illness, I think her f ears, falls (two), etc., would've been much less of an issue. I couldn't even get her to work with the one and two pound dumbbells I bought her! She was so cute.
I started lifting after my unexpected divorce. I lived overseas, and had to come back to the states. I had nothing and my heart was in pieces. Lifting was my therapy. Lifting made me get out of bed on the hardest of days. I felt like it was a means of translating the internal healing I was doing into a physical progression. It gave me hope. It gave me community. I've made some great connections and friends at my gym--intense conversations regarding everything from love, to programming, to family struggles. I don't think I would've survived such a trying time in my life post-divorce without the safe space of my gym. Lifting healed my heart, and reminds me every session that I am stronger than any circumstance.
I lift because it is giving me the confidence to be a better version of myself. Since last October, I've lost 72 lb, left a mentally abusive relationship, and I'm in the process of working towards my Master's degree. I used to not really care that much about my health, and it wasn't until I started getting stress induced panic attacks that I started to take it more seriously. I like lifting because it gives me a physical goals to work towards. It's helped me with the anxiety and depression after I left that relationship, realize how far I've come in the past year, and helps propel me to live my life to the fullest.
Chris Daniela Thomas Love this! I carried my kids’ scooter and skateboard and helmets for five blocks while jogging with zero issues yesterday, thinking, “Damn girl. You buff...” the whole way. So satisfying. 😆💪🏼
I used to be a runner. I’d run all.the.time.- sometimes ten miles a day. I didn’t gain weight, but I didn’t lose either. I felt good, honestly. BUT, when I went overseas for work, I started weight lifting. Not only did I lose an entire pant size, dropping from a six to a four (not that I was worried about that, but I just accepted I couldn’t get smaller when I was running) but I became toned all over. And, the most important thing, I’ve become INSANELY strong. And, from my experience, my muscles only look the bulky people fear about, when I’m flexing. Otherwise I just look toned.
I hear you with the running. Ran 21.5k 3 x a week, even in the winter when it was snowy -6C (without a shirt) Weight would come off…but not all. I had to include 2hrs of 3 days a week upper body and I got back to my 70kg weight. (I’m 5’11.5”) That was at 45 Dropped the gym due to a couple reasons (none due to dislike of working out, enjoy it immensely) Weight came back - to a degree even with those long runs. In my 50th year, ponied up for $50 a month for our local, small, gym and now journal my experience on my channel. (Trying to get 150kg 330lb - currently at 100kg/220 2 reps) As for weight…it’s ok…I’m at 80kg, not my 70kg optimal, but in fairness my arms are larger…but won’t lie, still have comfort belly 😊 I kinda stopped the long runs 6months ago when I started the gym 5k 2xs a week doesn’t cut it…and I eat healthy, though can’t quite afford the salmon I would want. 😊 My daughter (grown- all 4 my kids are adults now) is interested in lifting heavy. She and I both are inspired by Jen Thomson who is in her 40s, weighs about 63kg, is about 5’5” and benches 330lbs. I watch Meg time to time as well as I’m inspired by women who go beyond what a guy thinks they could and should do. Jen went past my goal… 😊 Anyway…yeah, hear you with the running. Plus I get my mood lifted from lifting heavy more so than running. Always hated getting up in the winter to run. 😜
I lift because I want to be able to bend over without falling down when I'm older; I want to be able to play with my kids and my grandkids (I'm 38, so I'm getting a head start ;); I want to be able to lift my parents when/if they get to an age where they need more physical help; I want to feel strong doing my daily activities. Also, lifting is literally the only exercise that relaxes me. P.S. You have helped one more woman get a barbell in her hands....I'm getting my first barbell today!!!
"Lifting is cute" I LOVED THIS! Thank you for making these videos trying to empower women to lift heavy and drop the cardio addiction. I know because I was one of them. I've been weight training for 9 months now and I seriously cannot recommend it enough. Its so complete, sculpts your body, makes you stronger, leaves a "I'm a bad-ass" sensation that I cannot even begin to explain. 'I don't lift because I don't want to look masculine' is so overrated.
Exactly! I want to gain muscles to be able to do more stuff, no matter if it makes me look less attractive to men (truth is it isnt only women who are afraid to get muscular, they are afraid not to be attractive to dudes anymore because a LOT of guys says a lot of mean things about fit women. That is to blame too.) I'd rather be more independent, stronger, than being arm-candy...... I think all women should work out. Everyone gains from this. Everyone should be fit to potentially help anyone else in need...... If not only to be more apt to defens yourself when the need arises.
I lift because.... but first, a little about me: I’ve lifted for 20+ years - I’m 61 and started in my late 30’s when i weighed 213... I had to do something and found a great little book that said fuel your body and make it strong. That started the journey. (Meg - your channel is sooooo motivating - the journey continues!! 👍) Sometimes life got in the way and I’d miss a few weeks/months, but lifting has been my anchor throughout. I was hooked on how it worked - even did a variety of studying (NSCA & ACE), got my ACE CPT and started a wellness program at work 15 years ago. All that really motivated my lifting - it’s proven effective w/so many benefits over so many years!! My favorite NSCA study was a comparison between 20 year olds and 80 year olds - the body’s ability to respond to resistance training was EQUAL!!! Both groups muscle strength grew by the same percentage - WOW!!! Ok - back to why i lift... I lift because: > It got/keeps me fit and stay focused on ever-better nutrition until I‘d lost 65#. It really sucks to go into a workout on junk food and feel like crap!! 😂 > It rehabbed my back - i had a super bad back injury one year (horses and running), got cleared by my sports doc and found a book: Core Performance. It went from gentle rehab exercises to heavy lifting. I did it all and got into GREAT shape!! > It was my medicine - seriously, sometimes life is so hard and for a while I struggled with clinical depression. (Studies had proved that exercise was as effective as meds - and i stayed off meds for years by exercising) The alarm would go off and I‘d say to myself “time to take my medicine” and go lift. > It let me lift heavy things. My husband was quite ill for a very long time and had to use a scooter for the last 10 years. I would deadlift it into the back of my Subaru so that we could go places. > It helped me recover from a couple of surgeries. I’d donated a kidney to my husband and a year later had hip surgery. I lifted heavy going into the surgeries and then followed dr’s advice to resume lifting afterwards. Much easier healing a fit body. > It helped me help my hubby. He was so limited in his physical capability - the last couple years he ended up in a mechanized wheelchair just to move around our townhouse. As part of my ACE CEU I focused on fitness for the elderly and came back with a couple fitness activities that let him have FUN again!! There’s joy in moving!! 😃 > I’m a computer professional (since the 80s) and sit waaaay too much. Lifting saves my posture!!!! > I’m getting older - dang! Lifting keeps me from hurting. I suspect I’m getting arthritis and if I don’t keep moving, I hurt. Another benefit of strength training is FLEXIBILITY. Moving our joints through proper form and range of motion keeps them working well. > I love to garden - which means wheelbarrows, shovels and dirt. Lifting lets me keep doing the things I love. > and for those of us from northern climes, an NSCA study found that strength training was the ONLY exercise that reduces sudden heart attacks from shoveling heavy snow. It makes sense - sudden heavy, repetitve exertion. > oh - and the ENDORPHINS!!! There’s JOY in moving! There’s JOY in beating the challenge. There’s JOY in walking out of the gym, legs shaking, soaked in sweat and the mind clear of all the daily stresses. 😃😃😃
Amazing. All this plus what you do for your husband. So sick of toxic men telling us all that no woman cares about men, no woman can do this or that, only men have brains and only men etc etc etc. When we KEEP PROVING they are lying.
I started lifting this summer because I got my heart broken and I was angry. It evolved into so much more than an outlet for the anger. It empowers me and makes me feel good, both mentally and physically. It also makes me look better.
I lift because it’s the first form of exercise I ever truly enjoyed and actually look forward to. I was always a big girl so I figured might as well be a strong big girl. LOVE U MEG OMG OMG 😆
I lift because almost 3 yrs ago I was over 200 lbs and a heroin addict. I was not happy. I had a friend get me into working out and I found the happiness that you did in seeing how I can control how my body looks. I’ve never felt this strong and confident in my body.
I have had MS for 26 years. I was a competitive bodybuilder ( been competing for 8 years then) when I got diagnosed, my neurologist told me to keep lifting, that is what will keep me out of a wheelchair and keep MS under check. He didn't need to tell me twice hahahaha. I lift 5 days a week, whilst listening to my body, clean nutrition, plenty of sleep, I am on no MS medications, and feel great. Keep doing what your doing, lifting is the best thing you can do for MS!
@@abcdefghijklmnop0385 I did when I first started lifting, I would fluctuate between 5-10 lbs but my measurements went down and my body was changing. It was disheartening so I stopped weighing myself daily and went to once a month. Once my body got use to the training and eating I dropped in weight. I went up slowly as well, 1600, 1800, 2000, 2100. I messed with my carbs too until I felt like I wasn't holding onto a ton of water and had sufficient energy for my workouts. Right now I'm at about 200 carbs a day. That works for me. Move at your own pace. It's a big change and will seem like a ton of food but its definitely more sustainable. Good luck 👍💪😄
@@whitneyreed2684 im scared cause i messed myself sooo much...600cal and running 21k weekends and 15k weekdays no rest...now that ive eaten again ive gain 30lbs it shoot up at first..now im not losing probably in 1500cal..i want 2000... for sanity ive stop measuring, and weighting myself too..🥺🥺 im scared still
@@abcdefghijklmnop0385 your body WILL adapt. Trust the process. I dont know your measurements but I can say 1500 is probably not enough. Every few weeks go up 100 calories. Make sure your keeping your training intense and mess with your carbs, keeping your protien higher. I can guarantee its mostly water weight you gained. Your body will adapt though and your weight will start to drop. Plus with us being woman, our weight tends to fluctuate constantly. Trust the process. If you want some additional peace of mind. Look up reverse dieting stories. We all go through the initial weight spike. Keep up the good work (it's worth it) 👍😄
I lift because it makes me feel healthy, strong and confident. I lift for my mental health and for longevity, especially to maintain bone density as I get older. My regular routine of lifting weights weekday mornings keeps me sane, comfortable in my own skin, and investing in my future!
I lift for my sanity, lol! It’s my time that I don’t have to think about anything else going on; no stress allowed. I focus on feeling strong and centered....my daily, albeit momentary, mental freedom! :)
Omg so true!! I started lifting when I was finishing my PhD in a STEM field and job hunting simultaneously. The tremendous stress kept me awake at night and depressed during the day. I lost my concentration as a result, which caused more stress and the vicious cycle began. Ever since I started lifting, I HAD to drop everything else on my mind that day and concentrate on the plates in front of me. It helped not only effectively manage my stress level but also regulate my sleep. I seriously couldn’t have had survived that darkest period of my life without lifting!
I lift because it helped me overcome my binge eating disorder. I started to concentrate on the weight on the bar and not the weight on the scale. This inadvertently caused me to change my nutrition. Not due to deciding to lose weight...but because I wanted to be a better lifter and wanted to perform better in the gym. It was definately a domino effect. Lifting came first which affected my nutrition in a very positive way. For 10 years I was binging every month. Now Binge free for 7 months.
I've only just started lifting, but I love it already! I thought I was having back pain because I had something wrong with my back so became scared of lifting (especially deadlifts). I started slow and it turns out I just had a weak back and now my back pains have gone! Would recommend to anyone, makes you feel really good!
I'm a SA and DV survivor and powerlifting gave me physical and emotional strength to brave the world after learning to fear it. Being as stronger or stronger than the average man made me feel less afraid of them and less vulnerable around them. It also made me love my body in a whole new way, not just for the way it looks, but what it can do. And it makes for a cool party trick when you carry around grown men like lil babies.
I kinda started lifting for my general health, then "accidentally" got into much better shape. Now I lift to become even stronger and more confident. It really helped with my anxiety issues (now gotta lift it away 100%!!)
You are one of the reasons I started lifting so thank you! I started lifting last year... currently deadlift 110kg and squat 90kg.. I lift for health but I really really enjoy it. Going to the gym is the best part of my day
Lifting makes me feel like a badass. It also improved my relationship with food. I used to feel guilty when I eat carbs and I was so obsessed with the number on the scale. Now, I happily eat my carbs and look at weight gain positively (gainsss).
Great points! I was doing keto, but I couldn't find the energy to train hard. I finally ate some carbs and upped my protein wayyyy higher than before and I'm doing great! Still incrementally dropping weight and feeling stronger 💪🏾
I was a stick but bulking and lifting heavy gave me pretty feminine strong curves. 💪 didnt wanted to mention it first but even my multiple sclerosis cant stop me, it lets me feel normal and that i can still do things. Lifting also improved my stability since i barely had it from an ms attack. But i never gave up on it and im back on the racks 😄
Not to get too personal but, i have an obese friend who also has MS. Is there any insight or tips you can offer to help him train effectively and safely?
@@Questionable_Talent Hey! Depends on what type of multiple sclerosis he has but it took me a while to accept it but... rest! That one was crucial for me. Instead of one minute rest between sets. I have to take two minutes rest. Also inform the gym staff. When i get the spinnies during an exercise i try to focus on lets say a dot on the wall till my vertigo is over so i can continue. When i have a lesser day...i use the smith and cable machine for safety. But rest is key. It is possible to lift but its gonna be rough but he will get so much benefits from it in the long run...more resistance, stability will improve,... Also i learned a lot and got tips and help from going to a recovery center/physical therapy. I hope i could help you and i wish him all the support.
Started lifting 2 years ago together with HIIT classes when was told I had osteoporosis. I’m 59 years old and my body has changed in that time ( it takes way longer than I thought, so needs commitment). Daily living, stairs, cleaning the house, gardening are all less exhausting these days so it’s totally worth it. Love watching you .....so inspirational x
I love cardio and lifting but lifting is always my first choice. I love being able to do so much more than I ever could and I love the feeling of the pump! I like how my body has changed too. In my gym I'm one of few people of colour who works out so I want to show all the POC and non-POC that we can do anything and we can be anything.
I started lifting around a year ago and I fell in love with it! It has given me so much confidence and it has transformed my body. I also do it to manage my stress since I am a mommy of 4. Feeling strong, empowered, and beautiful! Thanks for your great advice you are goals!
I lift to be better than I used to be, anything active keeps me so sane but there’s something about being able to move big weights and progressively getting better that makes me feel so mentally strong. Lifting is all mind over matter and that reflects into every other aspect in my life- it’s helped me with confidence and self efficacy both in and out of the gym and really powerlifting for me is much much more of a mental game than physical. I cant even begin to describe the positive impact it’s had on my everyday life, I guess that’s why I’m addicted, I love it!! 💞
I lift for confidence. Like you said, there is nothing like walking away from a gym session knowing that you just lifted a whole bunch of heavy stuff. All on your own. I also wanted to say thank you for pointing out that "heavy" is relative. ❤🦵🏋️♀️😁💪
Been lifting for almost 2 years now and I love it because not only do I love the feeling of getting stronger every session, but I also love it because it helps combat my anxiety and depression. Love you Meg!
I lift because it makes me feel so badass! I can't believe how much I can lift today compared to some years ago. Plus I get in some sort of meditate state in my season, which helps my anxiety LOVE YOU MEG OMG OMG
I'm a beginner lifter, and I do it because it truly makes me feel better... the fact that I'm in control of my body makes me happy. The energy it gives me, as well as the strength. AND it does help w/ anxiety a ton!!
I lift to prove to myself I can get better. My job is challenging and abstract, and it's not always clear what I need to be doing or whether I'm getting better. With lifting, I have a program, I know exactly what to do, and there's no doubt I'm stronger than when I started. Side bonuses: I stave off osteoporosis, which is in my family, and it turns out I love feeling strong and capable! I'm excited to pick up my big suitcase from baggage claim because I know it will be easy, and if my friend asks me to help them move? Hell yeah! I love not having to ask for help, and instead being asked for help. Sounds small, but I love it!
It’s hard to put into words just how amazing lifting has made me feel! It gives me such confidence, resilience and mental perseverance! And I got my first pull-up last week, which is not something I ever thought I would be strong enough to do ❤️
Ever since I started lifting I noticed that I had become more self-assured with myself. I don't second guess my decisions now (when before I would be stuck forever deciding on something). And when I do make wrong decisions, I don't berate and punish myself like I once did. I just take a step back, re-focus, and try to see what I can do to fix it (and accept if there's nothing I can do). Some people may say that it's just maturity, but I honestly think my experience in lifting (3 years now!) is the most significant source of this change. It seems ridiculous to chalk all this up to weightlifting, but when you think about it, whenever you approach the bar with a weight that feels insurmountable, the amount of focus you need to have in order to actually even attempt to lift it can easily translate to how you approach things in life. And when you actually lift that weight off the ground? BEST FEELING EVER. You've proven to yourself that you CAN do it, that you ARE capable. Aesthetics are nice, but quite honestly, the mental and emotional benefits strength training gives me are remarkable. 🙌🏋🏻♀️🙌
I’m so happy I found your channel. I’m in my 40s, female. I just started lifting heavy. I love bar bells, and kettle bells. But the majority of the time I lift using the barbell. I don’t do any cardio. I love being the middle age chick that knows how to rack and use the equipment. Ladies you’ll be surprised at how many men get intimidate by a woman lifting. I no longer feel uncomfortable I feel empowered at my age. And I don’t mind you watching me because I’ve built my confidence up. Ladies come to the weight section.. I work out 5 days a week. Thank you this video.
My husband talked me into it. He had been lifting for years. He was always telling me how great it was. I finality gave it a try at age 45 and he was right. I love lifting heavy.
I started lifting in my 20's and on and off over the years, Was a very skinny and got bullied a lot, most of my life. After a couple of months of lifting started putting on some good size, there was no more bulling. My gold was to bench press my body weight 3 sets of 12, and got to 180 lb. and dead lift two times my body weight, and at the age of 65 was still able to do this, but started dropping strength after and at 70 finding it very hard to keep it up even so I keep trying but loos intreat after a few months as lack of progress, Will be 75 in a month or so and hopping to get back in to it and keep it up. Ran a half marathon at 64 and hopping to be able to do it to celebrate being 3/4 of a century old. So thanks for your videos.
For anyone else returning to this video for a refresher, here is the list with timestamps! What does heavy lifting mean? (2:07) 1. More muscle = more calories burned (6:56) 2. Lifting helps burn calories and fat (7:52) 3. Lifting changes your body composition (8:59) 4. Lifting will give you confidence (12:20) 5. Lifting = fountain of youth! (13:32) 6. Resistance training is good for your bones! (14:29) 7. Growth hormone (16:04)
I can say I've been lifting pretty consistently since the age of 25. BUT now at 47, I gotta say didn't lift AT ALL during this whole last year... -> WORST "decision" ever, and probably one of my worst year ever as well, physically, mentally, professionally and emotionally. I just wanna say out loud that I am starting to lift again tomorrow, using that "Best Beginners Program" you shared a couple weeks ago to start with. That's how I feel, a beginner, back to square one, I can't believe how out of shape I am... I want my strength/power and self-esteem/confidence back! If this body's gonna ache, it's gotta ache from moving shit up and down, not from sitting on the couch for too long! THANK YOU for all your videos, you're a true badass !
I started lifting with kettlebells when I was 31, almost four years ago, and now I have a set of dumbbells that range from 5 lbs. to 50 lbs. I lift for all the health benefits and also to have visible muscle definition. I'm a clerk at a grocery store and when guys offer to lift heavy things for me I tell them, "No, I've got it." Then I show off my biceps. :D
So many reasons, to tone out, to feel more comfortable in my skin, to feel like a badass, to grow my butt, to flatten my tummy, to challenge myself, it eases my mind from anxiety etc the list goes on! I’m in the army so I have to be physically fit, but I really really want to learn how to LOVE myself.
I lift because it makes me feel good. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and for years I have dealt with pain. I started lifting weights and my pain has diminished SO MUCH. I don't have as many flare ups and I don't get migraines or headaches every day anymore. Lifting weights has changed my life. Watching you was one of the main reasons why I started lifting a little less than a year ago. Thank you Meg
Lifting makes me feel amazing! It helps with my work (moving heavy patients around) and every day life. Plus, it makes my butt look amazing! Huge confidence booster and therapy.
I lift for so many reasons...Top 5 - Mental and Physical Health, feeling like way strong/confident, the feeling when you are so pumped it hurts but in a good way, lifting heavier than men(so good-makes me smile) and bringing more women over to the dark side and pushing men out of in front of the mirror when lifting-so cool xo another awesome video Meg YAY xo
I lift because I love it, it makes me feel strong and confident, and it helps my mental health! I also like how it's made my body look and that I get to eat so much more
I switched to power lifting after finishing a solid running racing career. I love it. It's still a challenge and I'm looking at your programming as my coach is retiring from coaching to focus on her new job
I'm 48 and just rejoined the gym. Ironically I ran an Anytime fitness for 11 years and quit lifting because the thing I loved became my job and that sucks. Anyway I quit in November and joined a different gym. I'm lifting as heavy as I can three times a week because my dad had a stroke 11 years ago and is completely handicapped and it is up to me to manage his care and sometimes care for him myself. His wife has Ms and is morbidly obese and I'm also responsible for her. He's on hospice now and is down to about 165 lb but dead weight is hard to lift so I need to be as strong as I can for myself and for him. Love your videos you are a beautiful inspiring woman! You know, the day I started lifting again I was in the gym alone and I started crying because I missed it so much! The gym is my church. I'm also prioritizing protein for the first time in my life and eating like it's my job. 🥩 My mama died at my house last summer and she was only 68 but her horrible lifestyle habits took her out. I refuse to go the way of my parents and I am taking complete responsibility for my health. I feel powerful AF lately!
I am a military wife and have a 5 year old son i started lifting heavy after having him. I felt weak after baby due to being on bed rest and feeling helpless while hubby was deployed so i turned to weights to feel empowered and strong and to manage stress plus i love my body more and take better care of myself overall
I lift for all those reasons you meantioned, tbh. But I especially enjoy those psychological ones. Whenever I help people to carry stuff, I feel great, because I can actually carry those things with ease now, while a few years ago, I couldn't even lift them. So it happened, that I actually enjoy picking up and carrying stuff (groceries, moving boxes, furniture, my mom's border collie etc.). I'm still a beginner though, like... 40kg deadlift 5x5 but I actually started with 10kg and felt really uncomfortable doing this. But I am excited to see that number grow over time. It's a fun journey to me.
I just started lifting about 6 months ago. I'm 62 and love it. Bench press is the hardest. My PR is only 85 lbs. 😐 But my PR for a Dead List is 185 and Squat PR 145. I'm only 4' 11 and weigh 123. I really really like it and want to compete in my age group someday.
I did it to get out of my depression. I've been lifting weights for about 2-3 years and I gained 10kg of muscle and my body fat went from 26% to 18%. I was always skinny so I don't know where that fat was hiding honestly. And yeah it's been a big confidence booster and even though it doesn't totally fix having bad days, you're able to cope better
I lift because for a long time I was the girl always only doing cardio at the gym but never seeing a change in my body shape. I started to realise that it wasn't doing what I wanted for my body, and on top of that, I was so weak! Especially my upper body! I had to admit that I needed to lift weights. Now I can't believe what I was missing for so long ! !
I lift heavy because it makes me feel strong and badass! I also love lifting because it keeps me engaged while in a workout routine, as opposed to the mundane cardio I used to do. I HATED fitness for most of my life. Absolutely despised it. And lifting heavy has change that for me! Its like a new fun game that keeps me wanting to do more to accomplish more.
I lift because I love seeing what my body is capable of doing. It has also really helped my overall health in that I have a fun hobby that helps me release stress and also improves my physical health! There are so many reasons to lift, and I can't even picture my life without it now. I'm 4'11", 112 pounds, and my goal is to squat twice my body weight. I recently reached that goal on deadlift. I need about 20 more lbs on my squat, but I'll get there eventually! I'm also working on improving my bench. Slowly but surely. After all, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Awesome video Meg!
I lift because there is a form of progression for everyone. From being diagnosed with cervical spondylisis at 17 and not being able to lift anything above my shoulders to lifting almost my body weight, lifting truly changed my life.
I lift because it makes me feel strong in my body and accomplished. Last year I was diagnosed with colon cancer at 28 years old. I am currently cancer free but I underwent chemo for 6 months. I have never felt more week and helpless in my life than when my body was poisoned with that medicine. I needed something to make me feel healthy and strong again. So as soon as I recovered from all of that I decided to start lifting I have been at it now for 5 months and it is very rewarding. Thank you for your videos they have definitely taught me things along the way to help me with my form and technique. Keep up the good work Meg.
I lift because after 40 years on the planet, I discovered it’s something active that I’m actually good at (I HATE cardio...), and the visible and physical results motivate me to keep going. AND because I WILL NOT be one of these frail, hunched older women I see around me all the time, one fall away from a hospital stay. That is not the life I want ahead of me. Gettin’ that BONE DENSITY, hunny 🎉💪🏼🏋🏻♀️🎉
2 years later a comment 😂. I love this response. I am 52 and l also lift because I am good at it. I stopped for a long time…let work and kids and life get in the way. I am back and I remember that I am very good at it!
@@hollyday4628 Get it mama! 🖤 I’m still at it, two years later. Got me a backyard set up, and setting an example for my kids every other day 😂 Keep up the good work! 👏🏼
Lol - hate cardio as well. At 45 I would run 21.5k 2xs a week and 10k once. Hit the gym 3xs a week for 2 hrs for upper body. In 6 months I hit my optimal weight of 70kg/155lb Had to quit the gym…(small gym, crowded, and $50 a month) So I stepped up to running 21.5k 3 x a week God I hated getting up for that…summers 4 in the morning due to the heat (I’m a night person) Winters stayed in bed till noon for it to warm up. 😜 Seriously dreaded it, I would run in the snow in -6C without a shirt (Gloves and hat though) - you know the whole cold is good for you craze. Have videos of old snow runs and very old videos of when I reached 70kg. Now 50th year…running by itself doesn’t cut it… So I’m paying the extortion fee at the gym 😊 And it’s been 6months Difference this go around… I’m 80kg 175lb, I small stomach to hide my abs 😜 …but I dropped off running when I took up the gym At least long distance I do a 5k about 2xs a week, on treadmill. Nothing fancy, about 25 min. My focus has been on my bench. I’m at 100kg 2 reps (220lb) trying to get my 300lb bench. (Journaling it on my channel) My daughter (grown) is interested in powerlifting and we both have been inspired by Jen Thomson who is in her 40s, 5’5” about 63kg and benches 330lb. Anyway- good luck with the training
@@sherrymiller8167 I've PRed 200lb deadlift; 150lb back squat; 140lb bench; 70lb overhead press - but I've gone up and down a ton depending on life circumstances.
I lift because it makes me happy. It makes me feel so powerful. I’m only 19 and I deadlift 315. I’ve always felt so ashamed about how strong I was I use to play volleyball in highschool and it was definitely an insecure of mine to do any form of weight because well I would use the excuse that I’m a girl and it’s really boyish or manly to lift heavy. I’ve gotten a lot of confidence and I mean a lot of confidence from my boyfriend and you MEGSQUATS my queen!!❤️ I genuinely love weight training and being badass. Please make more videos!!!! YOU ARE MY INSPIRATION TO KEEP TRAINING. ❤️
Thank you Meg for being on youtube and posting your videos/sharing your message. A few years a go I was lucky enough to come across your channel and have been a subscriber ever since. You helped me through a point in my life where I felt lost and didn't know what to do with my body. I found that after years of being recovered my eating disorder had come back. Strength training and the mindset of "let's focus on what your body can actually do" rather than losing weight was a huge shift for me. The weightless came naturally. I lift heavy because I like to see results. I feel them! I like being strong and feeling strong. I like setting goals for myself for strength and crushing them! I feel better all around. THANK YOU!
I started lifting because I’m an aspiring nursing student and currently caring for the elderly. Strength is a must when working in healthcare especially nursing, so the individuals I care for motivate me to get stronger so I can support them more. One particular individual I cared for who passed away in September, he was my rock. He wanted me to become the best version of myself in my studies and whatever I do in life. He was a bodybuilder himself, even though he had Parkinson’s disease ( a disease that affects movement which causes tremors) he kept pushing 💪🏽 he was my inspiration and even on my days off someone in my head keeps telling me “Aps go to the gym, get that workout done, get them gains” I am naturally petite (5ft and 117 pounds) but lifting weights and incorporating that into my workouts has allowed me to get fitter, stronger and more motivated to do stuff outside the gym like study. I never thought I’d get into strength training but I do not regret it one bit!! Girls lift! No matter it be 5kg or 50kg you can do it and you’ll look like a badass.
Lifting is seriously my favorite way to deal with menstrual rage. While I'm feeling like the irritable sulk, nothing helps me like channeling the incredible Hulk. Hehe. I lift heavy for my health and also because it makes me feel badass. No shame there :P
I lift because it reduces my PCOS symptoms. I was over training and stressing my body out causing my PCOS symptoms to flair up and since we have been in lockdown in Sydney Australian I have been focusing on my compound lifts. It’s awesome that you have this program and I’m going to try.
I am 61 years old and I still love to lift in competitive powerlifting meets as well as training for the meets. I agree that more women should lift heavy and I would love to see more women compete in powerlifting, its just as much a women's sport as it is a man's sport. I have had elite women powerlifters in the past who have helped me at meets and in my training to help me get my strongest. I will always be grateful for that help and always be supportive of women powerlifters. Keep up the good work Meg!
I got back into weight lifting as a way to navigate out of grief after my mum passed away a couple of years ago. I also have endometriosis, & exercise is so important with pain management. So, for reasons of both physical & emotional pain, I started lifting again (I had done it previously a few years earlier, but stopped). It makes me mentally & physically stronger. I'm learning to accept & love my body, through the changes I can see happening & the positive benefits I get out from showing up all the time. Plus I love muscles on a female body, & I want that too! :) Great video Meg!
I lift because I want to be more of me, not less of me 💪😘 Lifting heavy makes me feel so powerful and has totally changed my relationship with my body!
I started to lift because I wanted to be stronger for doing massages. My goals have since changed and now I lift because I love how I feel. I love how strong I am. I love how it has change me not only physically, but mentally and that’s what keeps me going.
I started lifting heavy because I don't like cardio and the only way my trainer would let me out of doing hours of cardio was to lift more. Now I'm addicted. I enjoy it and look forward to doing it and have to force myself to not lift heavy on rest days or deload week.
MEG!!!! A former cardio queen you inspired me to lift. Seriously. I feel like a bad B*&C! in the gym because I'm putting more plates on the barbell than the guys next to me. I feel strong and powerful and will always be sooooo thankful for what you do!
I lift because... my husband has a seizure disorder and I wanted to make it my mission to be able to lift his bodyweight, in case I should ever need to! He's a big dude (6 foot and 215 pounds) and I'm quite little.... (5'2 - 125 lbs). We had an incident before I decided to lift, where he had a seizure while we were at a restaurant and getting him to floor from a seated position, safely, was incredibly difficult for me. I vowed to never not be able to take care for him/create a safe space for him, again.
I've been lifting heavy for just over a year now, and have PR'd with a 150 pound back squat, and 205 deadlift (getting close to that goal!!) - it makes me feel incredibly empowered and secure! Even outside of that very personal goal, I've really come to LOVE lifting and recommend it to ALL of my female friends!
Amazing reason to work out
Your love and caring for your husband is beautiful. Think about the comfort in life he has knowing you are there for him. Paige you are awesome, keep lifting.
Shouldn't lift a person having a seizure until after the seizure is over. Best thing to do is clear the area and lie him on the floor moving everything away from him until the episode is over!!
myah084 don’t worry, I’m fully aware of this fact.... see above where I mentioned it was a struggle to safely get him to the ground, so to let him ride out the seizure without a fall added to the mix. ;) (coming from a seizure caretaker with years of experience)
You are amazing. That is all.
Possible trigger warning
I lift heavy because after I was raped lifting made me feel empowered & gave me a healthy outlet for my anger. It allowed me to use all the negative emotions & energy in a positive way.
So powerful. Thank you for sharing! ❤
I hope you’re alright. Wishing you love and safety and power 🌸
Wow! Thank you for sharing! You are great💕
💪🏽👌🏼🤲🏼💞👏🏼
You are very strong for being able to turn such a traumatic event into something positive.
I lift for my mental health. Lifting heavy makes me feel beautiful and powerful. Nothing better than that!
Same girl💪🏻❤️
sameee:)
I agree I've been so focused on being skinnyburt now I just want to be strong and I feel it helps my mental health ❤
💖💯💖💪💪💪
I lift because as stefi cohen said; "be more concerned with what your body can do for you rather that what it can do for others" and lifting helps me appreciate my body more.
Omg. I love that
I'm a woman and I lift (heavy) because not only does it feel good but everyday life gets easier. Things like going up stairs, walking up hills, carrying groceries. Things being heavy and difficult is no longer a problem. I can do it myself and it feels great!
I lift because no matter how big my dog gets, i want to lift him to hug him.
WOW this is an inspiration to us all
...best goal
I feel this, top motivational comment 🙌🏻😂
The most important reason to lift for sure
Im a boy im 12 annnnd IM 120LBS also bullied i want to lift to terrify my bullies
I lift because it's helping me beat my eating disorder. Can't build them sweet muscles if I don't eat! :)
Marija Jordanoska yas!!! Love this attitude
That is awesome!!
Me too! I’ve struggled with restriction my entire life and getting stronger is so encouraging to eat. That and the appetite boost!!! ❤️❤️
Same :)
Ditto!! Early stages but it is helping so far :)
I lift because I'm in a wheelchair and I have to get myself in and out of my chair daily. Love your channel
God bless you. My late mom was 69 when the most unforeseen thing happened resulting in her being confined to a wheelchair for the remaining 17 1/2 yrs of her life. Every year and month was a battle to make sure she could remain functional in the home. She was a fighter and enjoyed her time mostly even after her illness, but always feared nursing homes and being a burden. I kept her at the house until last 10 months of her life (went to assisted living [not nursing home] just two miles from home and I brought her home daily for those months). I think her time, however, would've been easier if she had undergone strength training but mom was a southern woman born in a rural county in 1931...some things a woman just didn't do!...Like sweat and even hint at grunting (not so any men might hear). If she had pursued that as a hobby or diligently for decades before her illness, I think her f ears, falls (two), etc., would've been much less of an issue. I couldn't even get her to work with the one and two pound dumbbells I bought her! She was so cute.
I love that 💪
very important to get off your buttocks. and its hard toi be in a w/c-use gloves?
I lift because I hate cardio!
Nice😄
THIS!!!! I want to change my answer! 🤣 I absolutely hate cardio.
Same.
If you hate cardio you are just lazy and jumping on the anti cardio bandwagon. You will get heart issues in the future without it.
Same 😂
I lift because it’s badass, I’m healthier, fitter, leaner and stronger than 90% of the men in my gym, not bad for a 49yr old. 🏋🏼♀️
it is 100% badass :-)
so.. you lift to compare yourself to others?? that cannot be healthy for you
El Ramaxx someone who is one of 90% of the men in her gym
@@랄라룰루-n1u haha what a comeback! Now my self esteem is in shambles. You really showed me :(
Why is your photo upside down?
I lift because I like feeling strong and it keeps my anxiety manageable
Same girl. Same
Yesss. It’s either lifting or meds, I’ll take lifting 💪🏻
Girl, me too
Yep! Same here!
I started lifting after my unexpected divorce. I lived overseas, and had to come back to the states. I had nothing and my heart was in pieces. Lifting was my therapy. Lifting made me get out of bed on the hardest of days. I felt like it was a means of translating the internal healing I was doing into a physical progression. It gave me hope. It gave me community. I've made some great connections and friends at my gym--intense conversations regarding everything from love, to programming, to family struggles. I don't think I would've survived such a trying time in my life post-divorce without the safe space of my gym. Lifting healed my heart, and reminds me every session that I am stronger than any circumstance.
What a beautiful message from a beautiful soul!
I lift because it is giving me the confidence to be a better version of myself. Since last October, I've lost 72 lb, left a mentally abusive relationship, and I'm in the process of working towards my Master's degree. I used to not really care that much about my health, and it wasn't until I started getting stress induced panic attacks that I started to take it more seriously. I like lifting because it gives me a physical goals to work towards. It's helped me with the anxiety and depression after I left that relationship, realize how far I've come in the past year, and helps propel me to live my life to the fullest.
Wow - thats a whole lot of positive change. Kudos to you - YOU STRONG!!!!
@@Megsquats Thank you! What your doing is great and the hard work you put into your channel is really an inspiration to me.
YAY!!! You’re strong and amazing!!! Good for you!!
Im proud of you!!
I lift so I can carry our groceries upstairs on ONE TRIP! (goal achieved)
Chris Daniela Thomas Love this! I carried my kids’ scooter and skateboard and helmets for five blocks while jogging with zero issues yesterday, thinking, “Damn girl. You buff...” the whole way. So satisfying. 😆💪🏼
lol my daughter and I have a saying in our house, "one trip or no trip"
Me too
I used to be a runner. I’d run all.the.time.- sometimes ten miles a day. I didn’t gain weight, but I didn’t lose either. I felt good, honestly. BUT, when I went overseas for work, I started weight lifting. Not only did I lose an entire pant size, dropping from a six to a four (not that I was worried about that, but I just accepted I couldn’t get smaller when I was running) but I became toned all over. And, the most important thing, I’ve become INSANELY strong. And, from my experience, my muscles only look the bulky people fear about, when I’m flexing. Otherwise I just look toned.
I hear you with the running.
Ran 21.5k 3 x a week,
even in the winter when it was snowy -6C
(without a shirt)
Weight would come off…but not all.
I had to include 2hrs of 3 days a week upper body and I got back to my 70kg weight.
(I’m 5’11.5”)
That was at 45
Dropped the gym due to a couple reasons
(none due to dislike of working out, enjoy it immensely)
Weight came back - to a degree even with those long runs.
In my 50th year, ponied up for $50 a month for our local, small, gym
and now journal my experience on my channel.
(Trying to get 150kg 330lb - currently at 100kg/220 2 reps)
As for weight…it’s ok…I’m at 80kg, not my 70kg optimal,
but in fairness my arms are larger…but won’t lie, still have comfort belly 😊
I kinda stopped the long runs 6months ago when I started the gym
5k 2xs a week doesn’t cut it…and I eat healthy, though can’t quite afford the salmon I would want. 😊
My daughter (grown- all 4 my kids are adults now) is interested in lifting heavy.
She and I both are inspired by Jen Thomson who is in her 40s, weighs about 63kg, is about 5’5”
and benches 330lbs.
I watch Meg time to time as well as I’m inspired by women who go beyond what a guy thinks they could and should do.
Jen went past my goal… 😊
Anyway…yeah, hear you with the running.
Plus I get my mood lifted from lifting heavy more so than running.
Always hated getting up in the winter to run. 😜
I lift because I want to be able to bend over without falling down when I'm older; I want to be able to play with my kids and my grandkids (I'm 38, so I'm getting a head start ;); I want to be able to lift my parents when/if they get to an age where they need more physical help; I want to feel strong doing my daily activities. Also, lifting is literally the only exercise that relaxes me. P.S. You have helped one more woman get a barbell in her hands....I'm getting my first barbell today!!!
"Lifting is cute" I LOVED THIS! Thank you for making these videos trying to empower women to lift heavy and drop the cardio addiction. I know because I was one of them. I've been weight training for 9 months now and I seriously cannot recommend it enough. Its so complete, sculpts your body, makes you stronger, leaves a "I'm a bad-ass" sensation that I cannot even begin to explain. 'I don't lift because I don't want to look masculine' is so overrated.
Exactly!
I want to gain muscles to be able to do more stuff, no matter if it makes me look less attractive to men (truth is it isnt only women who are afraid to get muscular, they are afraid not to be attractive to dudes anymore because a LOT of guys says a lot of mean things about fit women. That is to blame too.)
I'd rather be more independent, stronger, than being arm-candy......
I think all women should work out. Everyone gains from this. Everyone should be fit to potentially help anyone else in need......
If not only to be more apt to defens yourself when the need arises.
I lift because.... but first, a little about me: I’ve lifted for 20+ years - I’m 61 and started in my late 30’s when i weighed 213... I had to do something and found a great little book that said fuel your body and make it strong. That started the journey. (Meg - your channel is sooooo motivating - the journey continues!! 👍) Sometimes life got in the way and I’d miss a few weeks/months, but lifting has been my anchor throughout. I was hooked on how it worked - even did a variety of studying (NSCA & ACE), got my ACE CPT and started a wellness program at work 15 years ago. All that really motivated my lifting - it’s proven effective w/so many benefits over so many years!! My favorite NSCA study was a comparison between 20 year olds and 80 year olds - the body’s ability to respond to resistance training was EQUAL!!! Both groups muscle strength grew by the same percentage - WOW!!! Ok - back to why i lift...
I lift because:
> It got/keeps me fit and stay focused on ever-better nutrition until I‘d lost 65#. It really sucks to go into a workout on junk food and feel like crap!! 😂
> It rehabbed my back - i had a super bad back injury one year (horses and running), got cleared by my sports doc and found a book: Core Performance. It went from gentle rehab exercises to heavy lifting. I did it all and got into GREAT shape!!
> It was my medicine - seriously, sometimes life is so hard and for a while I struggled with clinical depression. (Studies had proved that exercise was as effective as meds - and i stayed off meds for years by exercising) The alarm would go off and I‘d say to myself “time to take my medicine” and go lift.
> It let me lift heavy things. My husband was quite ill for a very long time and had to use a scooter for the last 10 years. I would deadlift it into the back of my Subaru so that we could go places.
> It helped me recover from a couple of surgeries. I’d donated a kidney to my husband and a year later had hip surgery. I lifted heavy going into the surgeries and then followed dr’s advice to resume lifting afterwards. Much easier healing a fit body.
> It helped me help my hubby. He was so limited in his physical capability - the last couple years he ended up in a mechanized wheelchair just to move around our townhouse. As part of my ACE CEU I focused on fitness for the elderly and came back with a couple fitness activities that let him have FUN again!! There’s joy in moving!! 😃
> I’m a computer professional (since the 80s) and sit waaaay too much. Lifting saves my posture!!!!
> I’m getting older - dang! Lifting keeps me from hurting. I suspect I’m getting arthritis and if I don’t keep moving, I hurt. Another benefit of strength training is FLEXIBILITY. Moving our joints through proper form and range of motion keeps them working well.
> I love to garden - which means wheelbarrows, shovels and dirt. Lifting lets me keep doing the things I love.
> and for those of us from northern climes, an NSCA study found that strength training was the ONLY exercise that reduces sudden heart attacks from shoveling heavy snow. It makes sense - sudden heavy, repetitve exertion.
> oh - and the ENDORPHINS!!! There’s JOY in moving! There’s JOY in beating the challenge. There’s JOY in walking out of the gym, legs shaking, soaked in sweat and the mind clear of all the daily stresses. 😃😃😃
Amazing.
All this plus what you do for your husband.
So sick of toxic men telling us all that no woman cares about men, no woman can do this or that, only men have brains and only men etc etc etc.
When we KEEP PROVING they are lying.
Lifting has transformed how I handle stress, it boosts my mood & gives me an outlet! It is also my number 1 way to get over a breakup:)
Strong enough to yeet the whole ex
It’s how I got over a break up too!
That's what I'm doing now!!! Got dumped after 8yrs about 5wks ago and now I cant stay out the gym
I started lifting this summer because I got my heart broken and I was angry. It evolved into so much more than an outlet for the anger. It empowers me and makes me feel good, both mentally and physically. It also makes me look better.
I lift because it’s the first form of exercise I ever truly enjoyed and actually look forward to. I was always a big girl so I figured might as well be a strong big girl. LOVE U MEG OMG OMG 😆
😂😂😂 OMG OMG
Same!
I lift because almost 3 yrs ago I was over 200 lbs and a heroin addict. I was not happy. I had a friend get me into working out and I found the happiness that you did in seeing how I can control how my body looks. I’ve never felt this strong and confident in my body.
I lift because I have Multiple Sclerosis and I want to get as strong as I can while I still have the ability to ❤️❤️❤️
I have had MS for 26 years. I was a competitive bodybuilder ( been competing for 8 years then) when I got diagnosed, my neurologist told me to keep lifting, that is what will keep me out of a wheelchair and keep MS under check. He didn't need to tell me twice hahahaha. I lift 5 days a week, whilst listening to my body, clean nutrition, plenty of sleep, I am on no MS medications, and feel great. Keep doing what your doing, lifting is the best thing you can do for MS!
Lisa Graham thankyou for your reply that fills me with hope! Xxx
@@satanette8562 ❤❤
Inspiring!!
Yup, me too!
☺
I lift because it helps with my depression and anxiety. It also makes me feel confident and gives me more energy.
me too
Oh yeah and I eat 2400 calories a day which is 1000 calories more than when I didn't lift and just did cardio. BOOM! I love food
did you gain??im getting there
@@abcdefghijklmnop0385 I did when I first started lifting, I would fluctuate between 5-10 lbs but my measurements went down and my body was changing. It was disheartening so I stopped weighing myself daily and went to once a month. Once my body got use to the training and eating I dropped in weight. I went up slowly as well, 1600, 1800, 2000, 2100. I messed with my carbs too until I felt like I wasn't holding onto a ton of water and had sufficient energy for my workouts. Right now I'm at about 200 carbs a day. That works for me. Move at your own pace. It's a big change and will seem like a ton of food but its definitely more sustainable. Good luck 👍💪😄
@@whitneyreed2684 im scared cause i messed myself sooo much...600cal and running 21k weekends and 15k weekdays no rest...now that ive eaten again ive gain 30lbs it shoot up at first..now im not losing probably in 1500cal..i want 2000...
for sanity ive stop measuring, and weighting myself too..🥺🥺
im scared still
@@abcdefghijklmnop0385 your body WILL adapt. Trust the process. I dont know your measurements but I can say 1500 is probably not enough. Every few weeks go up 100 calories. Make sure your keeping your training intense and mess with your carbs, keeping your protien higher. I can guarantee its mostly water weight you gained. Your body will adapt though and your weight will start to drop. Plus with us being woman, our weight tends to fluctuate constantly. Trust the process. If you want some additional peace of mind. Look up reverse dieting stories. We all go through the initial weight spike. Keep up the good work (it's worth it) 👍😄
@@whitneyreed2684 thank you😊😊🥰
hearing stories and seeing videos appeases me if not help me go through this...
I lift because it makes me feel healthy, strong and confident. I lift for my mental health and for longevity, especially to maintain bone density as I get older. My regular routine of lifting weights weekday mornings keeps me sane, comfortable in my own skin, and investing in my future!
I lift for my sanity, lol! It’s my time that I don’t have to think about anything else going on; no stress allowed. I focus on feeling strong and centered....my daily, albeit momentary, mental freedom! :)
Omg so true!! I started lifting when I was finishing my PhD in a STEM field and job hunting simultaneously. The tremendous stress kept me awake at night and depressed during the day. I lost my concentration as a result, which caused more stress and the vicious cycle began. Ever since I started lifting, I HAD to drop everything else on my mind that day and concentrate on the plates in front of me. It helped not only effectively manage my stress level but also regulate my sleep. I seriously couldn’t have had survived that darkest period of my life without lifting!
I lift because it helped me overcome my binge eating disorder. I started to concentrate on the weight on the bar and not the weight on the scale. This inadvertently caused me to change my nutrition. Not due to deciding to lose weight...but because I wanted to be a better lifter and wanted to perform better in the gym. It was definately a domino effect. Lifting came first which affected my nutrition in a very positive way. For 10 years I was binging every month. Now Binge free for 7 months.
that's awesome! I just started on a very similar journey and i hope to see good results as well. I'm very happy for you!
I've only just started lifting, but I love it already! I thought I was having back pain because I had something wrong with my back so became scared of lifting (especially deadlifts). I started slow and it turns out I just had a weak back and now my back pains have gone! Would recommend to anyone, makes you feel really good!
I lift to burn fat, build muscle and feel like a general badass.
I lift because I’m tired of being weak (in every aspect)
I'm a SA and DV survivor and powerlifting gave me physical and emotional strength to brave the world after learning to fear it. Being as stronger or stronger than the average man made me feel less afraid of them and less vulnerable around them. It also made me love my body in a whole new way, not just for the way it looks, but what it can do. And it makes for a cool party trick when you carry around grown men like lil babies.
I kinda started lifting for my general health, then "accidentally" got into much better shape. Now I lift to become even stronger and more confident. It really helped with my anxiety issues (now gotta lift it away 100%!!)
You are one of the reasons I started lifting so thank you! I started lifting last year... currently deadlift 110kg and squat 90kg.. I lift for health but I really really enjoy it. Going to the gym is the best part of my day
Lifting makes me feel like a badass. It also improved my relationship with food. I used to feel guilty when I eat carbs and I was so obsessed with the number on the scale. Now, I happily eat my carbs and look at weight gain positively (gainsss).
Great points! I was doing keto, but I couldn't find the energy to train hard. I finally ate some carbs and upped my protein wayyyy higher than before and I'm doing great! Still incrementally dropping weight and feeling stronger 💪🏾
Struggled with eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder) for years and lifting has helped me and my mental health hugely!
I lift because I want to show my daughter that she can be strong in more ways than one!
I was a stick but bulking and lifting heavy gave me pretty feminine strong curves. 💪 didnt wanted to mention it first but even my multiple sclerosis cant stop me, it lets me feel normal and that i can still do things. Lifting also improved my stability since i barely had it from an ms attack. But i never gave up on it and im back on the racks 😄
I do enjoy the power to choose how you want to mold your body when it comes to lifting.
@@Megsquats me too 😄
Not to get too personal but, i have an obese friend who also has MS. Is there any insight or tips you can offer to help him train effectively and safely?
@@Questionable_Talent Hey! Depends on what type of multiple sclerosis he has but it took me a while to accept it but... rest! That one was crucial for me. Instead of one minute rest between sets. I have to take two minutes rest. Also inform the gym staff. When i get the spinnies during an exercise i try to focus on lets say a dot on the wall till my vertigo is over so i can continue. When i have a lesser day...i use the smith and cable machine for safety. But rest is key. It is possible to lift but its gonna be rough but he will get so much benefits from it in the long run...more resistance, stability will improve,... Also i learned a lot and got tips and help from going to a recovery center/physical therapy. I hope i could help you and i wish him all the support.
@@MissNathalie81 thank you.
Started lifting 2 years ago together with HIIT classes when was told I had osteoporosis. I’m 59 years old and my body has changed in that time ( it takes way longer than I thought, so needs commitment). Daily living, stairs, cleaning the house, gardening are all less exhausting these days so it’s totally worth it. Love watching you .....so inspirational x
I love cardio and lifting but lifting is always my first choice. I love being able to do so much more than I ever could and I love the feeling of the pump! I like how my body has changed too.
In my gym I'm one of few people of colour who works out so I want to show all the POC and non-POC that we can do anything and we can be anything.
I started lifting to get rid of back pain. I continued lifting because i loved the feeling of pushing myself
Did it help get rid of your back pain?
I started lifting around a year ago and I fell in love with it! It has given me so much confidence and it has transformed my body. I also do it to manage my stress since I am a mommy of 4. Feeling strong, empowered, and beautiful! Thanks for your great advice you are goals!
I lift to be better than I used to be, anything active keeps me so sane but there’s something about being able to move big weights and progressively getting better that makes me feel so mentally strong. Lifting is all mind over matter and that reflects into every other aspect in my life- it’s helped me with confidence and self efficacy both in and out of the gym and really powerlifting for me is much much more of a mental game than physical. I cant even begin to describe the positive impact it’s had on my everyday life, I guess that’s why I’m addicted, I love it!! 💞
I lift for confidence. Like you said, there is nothing like walking away from a gym session knowing that you just lifted a whole bunch of heavy stuff. All on your own.
I also wanted to say thank you for pointing out that "heavy" is relative. ❤🦵🏋️♀️😁💪
Been lifting for almost 2 years now and I love it because not only do I love the feeling of getting stronger every session, but I also love it because it helps combat my anxiety and depression. Love you Meg!
I lift because it makes me feel so badass! I can't believe how much I can lift today compared to some years ago. Plus I get in some sort of meditate state in my season, which helps my anxiety
LOVE YOU MEG OMG OMG
I love that - I'm not surprised, but I'm so happy to see that so many comments say they find lifting meditative! I'm IMPRESSED!
I'm a beginner lifter, and I do it because it truly makes me feel better... the fact that I'm in control of my body makes me happy. The energy it gives me, as well as the strength. AND it does help w/ anxiety a ton!!
I lift to prove to myself I can get better. My job is challenging and abstract, and it's not always clear what I need to be doing or whether I'm getting better. With lifting, I have a program, I know exactly what to do, and there's no doubt I'm stronger than when I started.
Side bonuses: I stave off osteoporosis, which is in my family, and it turns out I love feeling strong and capable! I'm excited to pick up my big suitcase from baggage claim because I know it will be easy, and if my friend asks me to help them move? Hell yeah! I love not having to ask for help, and instead being asked for help. Sounds small, but I love it!
I lift to fix my knees and I like to be stronger💪 than the boys in my class (by the way, I'm 13 years old). Love you Meg❤️
You go, grrrrl!
What a great attitude! Keep lifting
It’s hard to put into words just how amazing lifting has made me feel! It gives me such confidence, resilience and mental perseverance! And I got my first pull-up last week, which is not something I ever thought I would be strong enough to do ❤️
I lift because it helps me focus on what my body can do instead of how it looks!💪
Ever since I started lifting I noticed that I had become more self-assured with myself. I don't second guess my decisions now (when before I would be stuck forever deciding on something). And when I do make wrong decisions, I don't berate and punish myself like I once did. I just take a step back, re-focus, and try to see what I can do to fix it (and accept if there's nothing I can do). Some people may say that it's just maturity, but I honestly think my experience in lifting (3 years now!) is the most significant source of this change. It seems ridiculous to chalk all this up to weightlifting, but when you think about it, whenever you approach the bar with a weight that feels insurmountable, the amount of focus you need to have in order to actually even attempt to lift it can easily translate to how you approach things in life. And when you actually lift that weight off the ground? BEST FEELING EVER. You've proven to yourself that you CAN do it, that you ARE capable. Aesthetics are nice, but quite honestly, the mental and emotional benefits strength training gives me are remarkable. 🙌🏋🏻♀️🙌
I’m so happy I found your channel. I’m in my 40s, female. I just started lifting heavy. I love bar bells, and kettle bells. But the majority of the time I lift using the barbell. I don’t do any cardio. I love being the middle age chick that knows how to rack and use the equipment. Ladies you’ll be surprised at how many men get intimidate by a woman lifting. I no longer feel uncomfortable I feel empowered at my age. And I don’t mind you watching me because I’ve built my confidence up. Ladies come to the weight section.. I work out 5 days a week. Thank you this video.
I lift to feel strong, to feel confident and to see what my body can do when pushed to the limit!!!👏🏻
My husband talked me into it. He had been lifting for years. He was always telling me how great it was. I finality gave it a try at age 45 and he was right. I love lifting heavy.
I lift because it's badass. Moving heavy weights, developing strength, power, and explosiveness is fantastic
I started lifting in my 20's and on and off over the years, Was a very skinny and got bullied a lot, most of my life. After a couple of months of lifting started putting on some good size, there was no more bulling. My gold was to bench press my body weight 3 sets of 12, and got to 180 lb. and dead lift two times my body weight, and at the age of 65 was still able to do this, but started dropping strength after and at 70 finding it very hard to keep it up even so I keep trying but loos intreat after a few months as lack of progress, Will be 75 in a month or so and hopping to get back in to it and keep it up. Ran a half marathon at 64 and hopping to be able to do it to celebrate being 3/4 of a century old. So thanks for your videos.
For anyone else returning to this video for a refresher, here is the list with timestamps!
What does heavy lifting mean? (2:07)
1. More muscle = more calories burned (6:56)
2. Lifting helps burn calories and fat (7:52)
3. Lifting changes your body composition (8:59)
4. Lifting will give you confidence (12:20)
5. Lifting = fountain of youth! (13:32)
6. Resistance training is good for your bones! (14:29)
7. Growth hormone (16:04)
I can say I've been lifting pretty consistently since the age of 25. BUT now at 47, I gotta say didn't lift AT ALL during this whole last year... -> WORST "decision" ever, and probably one of my worst year ever as well, physically, mentally, professionally and emotionally. I just wanna say out loud that I am starting to lift again tomorrow, using that "Best Beginners Program" you shared a couple weeks ago to start with. That's how I feel, a beginner, back to square one, I can't believe how out of shape I am... I want my strength/power and self-esteem/confidence back! If this body's gonna ache, it's gotta ache from moving shit up and down, not from sitting on the couch for too long! THANK YOU for all your videos, you're a true badass !
I started lifting with kettlebells when I was 31, almost four years ago, and now I have a set of dumbbells that range from 5 lbs. to 50
lbs. I lift for all the health benefits and also to have visible muscle definition. I'm a clerk at a grocery store and when guys offer to lift heavy things for me I tell them, "No, I've got it." Then I show off my biceps. :D
So many reasons, to tone out, to feel more comfortable in my skin, to feel like a badass, to grow my butt, to flatten my tummy, to challenge myself, it eases my mind from anxiety etc the list goes on! I’m in the army so I have to be physically fit, but I really really want to learn how to LOVE myself.
I love lifting heavy!! I started in 2015 weight training and it has made me feel way more confident!!
I lift because it makes me feel good. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and for years I have dealt with pain. I started lifting weights and my pain has diminished SO MUCH. I don't have as many flare ups and I don't get migraines or headaches every day anymore. Lifting weights has changed my life. Watching you was one of the main reasons why I started lifting a little less than a year ago. Thank you Meg
Lifting makes me feel amazing! It helps with my work (moving heavy patients around) and every day life. Plus, it makes my butt look amazing! Huge confidence booster and therapy.
I lift for so many reasons...Top 5 - Mental and Physical Health, feeling like way strong/confident, the feeling when you are so pumped it hurts but in a good way, lifting heavier than men(so good-makes me smile) and bringing more women over to the dark side and pushing men out of in front of the mirror when lifting-so cool xo another awesome video Meg YAY xo
I lift because I love it, it makes me feel strong and confident, and it helps my mental health! I also like how it's made my body look and that I get to eat so much more
I switched to power lifting after finishing a solid running racing career. I love it. It's still a challenge and I'm looking at your programming as my coach is retiring from coaching to focus on her new job
I love progression and I lift to accomplish my goals, I love watching how my body changes and lifting makes me happy. Its one of my passions in life.
I'm 48 and just rejoined the gym. Ironically I ran an Anytime fitness for 11 years and quit lifting because the thing I loved became my job and that sucks. Anyway I quit in November and joined a different gym. I'm lifting as heavy as I can three times a week because my dad had a stroke 11 years ago and is completely handicapped and it is up to me to manage his care and sometimes care for him myself. His wife has Ms and is morbidly obese and I'm also responsible for her. He's on hospice now and is down to about 165 lb but dead weight is hard to lift so I need to be as strong as I can for myself and for him. Love your videos you are a beautiful inspiring woman! You know, the day I started lifting again I was in the gym alone and I started crying because I missed it so much! The gym is my church. I'm also prioritizing protein for the first time in my life and eating like it's my job. 🥩 My mama died at my house last summer and she was only 68 but her horrible lifestyle habits took her out. I refuse to go the way of my parents and I am taking complete responsibility for my health. I feel powerful AF lately!
I love how informative and humorous you are! Keeps me entertained and more educated haha 💜
I am a military wife and have a 5 year old son i started lifting heavy after having him. I felt weak after baby due to being on bed rest and feeling helpless while hubby was deployed so i turned to weights to feel empowered and strong and to manage stress plus i love my body more and take better care of myself overall
I lift for all those reasons you meantioned, tbh. But I especially enjoy those psychological ones. Whenever I help people to carry stuff, I feel great, because I can actually carry those things with ease now, while a few years ago, I couldn't even lift them. So it happened, that I actually enjoy picking up and carrying stuff (groceries, moving boxes, furniture, my mom's border collie etc.). I'm still a beginner though, like... 40kg deadlift 5x5 but I actually started with 10kg and felt really uncomfortable doing this. But I am excited to see that number grow over time. It's a fun journey to me.
I just started lifting about 6 months ago. I'm 62 and love it. Bench press is the hardest. My PR is only 85 lbs. 😐 But my PR for a Dead List is 185 and Squat PR 145. I'm only 4' 11 and weigh 123. I really really like it and want to compete in my age group someday.
I did it to get out of my depression. I've been lifting weights for about 2-3 years and I gained 10kg of muscle and my body fat went from 26% to 18%. I was always skinny so I don't know where that fat was hiding honestly. And yeah it's been a big confidence booster and even though it doesn't totally fix having bad days, you're able to cope better
I lift because for a long time I was the girl always only doing cardio at the gym but never seeing a change in my body shape. I started to realise that it wasn't doing what I wanted for my body, and on top of that, I was so weak! Especially my upper body! I had to admit that I needed to lift weights. Now I can't believe what I was missing for so long ! !
I lift heavy because it makes me feel strong and badass! I also love lifting because it keeps me engaged while in a workout routine, as opposed to the mundane cardio I used to do. I HATED fitness for most of my life. Absolutely despised it. And lifting heavy has change that for me! Its like a new fun game that keeps me wanting to do more to accomplish more.
I lift because I love seeing what my body is capable of doing. It has also really helped my overall health in that I have a fun hobby that helps me release stress and also improves my physical health! There are so many reasons to lift, and I can't even picture my life without it now. I'm 4'11", 112 pounds, and my goal is to squat twice my body weight. I recently reached that goal on deadlift. I need about 20 more lbs on my squat, but I'll get there eventually! I'm also working on improving my bench. Slowly but surely. After all, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Awesome video Meg!
I lift because there is a form of progression for everyone. From being diagnosed with cervical spondylisis at 17 and not being able to lift anything above my shoulders to lifting almost my body weight, lifting truly changed my life.
I lift because it makes me feel strong in my body and accomplished. Last year I was diagnosed with colon cancer at 28 years old. I am currently cancer free but I underwent chemo for 6 months. I have never felt more week and helpless in my life than when my body was poisoned with that medicine. I needed something to make me feel healthy and strong again. So as soon as I recovered from all of that I decided to start lifting I have been at it now for 5 months and it is very rewarding. Thank you for your videos they have definitely taught me things along the way to help me with my form and technique. Keep up the good work Meg.
I lift because after 40 years on the planet, I discovered it’s something active that I’m actually good at (I HATE cardio...), and the visible and physical results motivate me to keep going. AND because I WILL NOT be one of these frail, hunched older women I see around me all the time, one fall away from a hospital stay. That is not the life I want ahead of me. Gettin’ that BONE DENSITY, hunny 🎉💪🏼🏋🏻♀️🎉
2 years later a comment 😂. I love this response. I am 52 and l also lift because I am good at it. I stopped for a long time…let work and kids and life get in the way. I am back and I remember that I am very good at it!
@@hollyday4628 Get it mama! 🖤 I’m still at it, two years later. Got me a backyard set up, and setting an example for my kids every other day 😂 Keep up the good work! 👏🏼
How much weight did u lift
Lol - hate cardio as well.
At 45 I would run 21.5k 2xs a week and 10k once.
Hit the gym 3xs a week for 2 hrs for upper body.
In 6 months I hit my optimal weight of 70kg/155lb
Had to quit the gym…(small gym, crowded, and $50 a month)
So I stepped up to running 21.5k 3 x a week
God I hated getting up for that…summers 4 in the morning due to the heat
(I’m a night person)
Winters stayed in bed till noon for it to warm up. 😜
Seriously dreaded it, I would run in the snow in -6C without a shirt
(Gloves and hat though) - you know the whole cold is good for you craze.
Have videos of old snow runs and very old videos of when I reached 70kg.
Now 50th year…running by itself doesn’t cut it…
So I’m paying the extortion fee at the gym 😊
And it’s been 6months
Difference this go around…
I’m 80kg 175lb, I small stomach to hide my abs 😜
…but I dropped off running when I took up the gym
At least long distance
I do a 5k about 2xs a week, on treadmill.
Nothing fancy, about 25 min.
My focus has been on my bench.
I’m at 100kg 2 reps (220lb) trying to get my 300lb bench.
(Journaling it on my channel)
My daughter (grown) is interested in powerlifting and we both have been inspired by
Jen Thomson who is in her 40s, 5’5” about 63kg and benches 330lb.
Anyway- good luck with the training
@@sherrymiller8167 I've PRed 200lb deadlift; 150lb back squat; 140lb bench; 70lb overhead press - but I've gone up and down a ton depending on life circumstances.
I lift because it makes me happy. It makes me feel so powerful. I’m only 19 and I deadlift 315. I’ve always felt so ashamed about how strong I was I use to play volleyball in highschool and it was definitely an insecure of mine to do any form of weight because well I would use the excuse that I’m a girl and it’s really boyish or manly to lift heavy. I’ve gotten a lot of confidence and I mean a lot of confidence from my boyfriend and you MEGSQUATS my queen!!❤️ I genuinely love weight training and being badass. Please make more videos!!!! YOU ARE MY INSPIRATION TO KEEP TRAINING. ❤️
I lift because I’m a nursing student who doesn’t want to hurt my back in the field. It also makes me feel confident and stronger than I thought.
Thank you Meg for being on youtube and posting your videos/sharing your message.
A few years a go I was lucky enough to come across your channel and have been a subscriber ever since. You helped me through a point in my life where I felt lost and didn't know what to do with my body. I found that after years of being recovered my eating disorder had come back. Strength training and the mindset of "let's focus on what your body can actually do" rather than losing weight was a huge shift for me. The weightless came naturally.
I lift heavy because I like to see results. I feel them! I like being strong and feeling strong. I like setting goals for myself for strength and crushing them! I feel better all around.
THANK YOU!
I lift because I like to not just look and feel strong but also BE STRONG!!
I started lifting because I’m an aspiring nursing student and currently caring for the elderly. Strength is a must when working in healthcare especially nursing, so the individuals I care for motivate me to get stronger so I can support them more.
One particular individual I cared for who passed away in September, he was my rock. He wanted me to become the best version of myself in my studies and whatever I do in life. He was a bodybuilder himself, even though he had Parkinson’s disease ( a disease that affects movement which causes tremors) he kept pushing 💪🏽 he was my inspiration and even on my days off someone in my head keeps telling me “Aps go to the gym, get that workout done, get them gains”
I am naturally petite (5ft and 117 pounds) but lifting weights and incorporating that into my workouts has allowed me to get fitter, stronger and more motivated to do stuff outside the gym like study. I never thought I’d get into strength training but I do not regret it one bit!! Girls lift! No matter it be 5kg or 50kg you can do it and you’ll look like a badass.
Lifting is seriously my favorite way to deal with menstrual rage. While I'm feeling like the irritable sulk, nothing helps me like channeling the incredible Hulk. Hehe.
I lift heavy for my health and also because it makes me feel badass. No shame there :P
Thank you my Gf had this misconception and I showed her this video. Now she lifts with me. We are so much happier.
I left for improving my body, confidence, it helps my deal with stress and anxiety and On top of that I have a passion about it
I love the way you explain things. Thank you. My son recommended that I watch your videos.
I lift to keep my mind and body strong. It is the ultimate stress reliever.
I lift because it reduces my PCOS symptoms. I was over training and stressing my body out causing my PCOS symptoms to flair up and since we have been in lockdown in Sydney Australian I have been focusing on my compound lifts. It’s awesome that you have this program and I’m going to try.
I lift because it makes me feel confident and strong in everything I do! And it hurts so good!! 💪🏼🥵🤯🥰
I am 61 years old and I still love to lift in competitive powerlifting meets as well as training for the meets. I agree that more women should lift heavy and I would love to see more women compete in powerlifting, its just as much a women's sport as it is a man's sport. I have had elite women powerlifters in the past who have helped me at meets and in my training to help me get my strongest. I will always be grateful for that help and always be supportive of women powerlifters. Keep up the good work Meg!
I lift because it makes me feel strong, capable, unstoppable, limitless, and grateful ♥️☺️💪🏻 lifting makes me feel like my true self!
I got back into weight lifting as a way to navigate out of grief after my mum passed away a couple of years ago. I also have endometriosis, & exercise is so important with pain management. So, for reasons of both physical & emotional pain, I started lifting again (I had done it previously a few years earlier, but stopped). It makes me mentally & physically stronger. I'm learning to accept & love my body, through the changes I can see happening & the positive benefits I get out from showing up all the time. Plus I love muscles on a female body, & I want that too! :) Great video Meg!
I lift because I want to be more of me, not less of me 💪😘 Lifting heavy makes me feel so powerful and has totally changed my relationship with my body!
I started to lift because I wanted to be stronger for doing massages. My goals have since changed and now I lift because I love how I feel. I love how strong I am. I love how it has change me not only physically, but mentally and that’s what keeps me going.
I started lifting heavy because I don't like cardio and the only way my trainer would let me out of doing hours of cardio was to lift more. Now I'm addicted. I enjoy it and look forward to doing it and have to force myself to not lift heavy on rest days or deload week.
Yep - this is a huge reason why I switched to lifting and fell more and more in love with it :-)
MEG!!!! A former cardio queen you inspired me to lift. Seriously. I feel like a bad B*&C! in the gym because I'm putting more plates on the barbell than the guys next to me. I feel strong and powerful and will always be sooooo thankful for what you do!
I lift because I'm nearing 50 and want to keep my srength. Also it impresses my young adult children.