One thing I’ll never ever shut up about is the importance of lean muscle mass, especially for women. I think we’ve given the bodybuilding community too much credit for owning the ‘muscle building’ image, because most women that I know are not interested in getting bulky and therefor avoid muscle building altogether. Well it’s 2025, and we know too much to stay quiet about it — it’s time to reframe.
I’m in a phase of life that maintaining lean muscle is more important than ever, even though it’s getting to be more difficult all the time. I’m in my 30’s, 10 months postpartum, and I have such little time to myself. But, I credit my commitment to muscle building prior to getting pregnant for a healthy pregnancy, my birth experience, and my postpartum experience so far. It makes all the difference for endurance, stamina, and overall energy levels.
I’ve personally experienced how transformative building muscle can be, and I know that I’ll continue to lean on strength training through every phase of my life. Building muscle can completely transform not just bodies, but energy levels, mood, metabolism, and confidence—especially for women.
Myth: “Lifting Weights Will Make Me Bulky”
This one needs to be retired for good. SPOILER ALERT! No it actually won’t. Women don’t have the testosterone levels required to pack on muscle the same way men do. What lifting actually does? It builds lean muscle, which makes you look more toned, strong, and healthy—not bulky.
Why Muscle Matters (Especially for Women)
Building muscle isn’t just about aesthetics. It:
- Boosts your metabolism (muscle burns more calories at rest)
- Supports hormone balance and reduces symptoms of PCOS, PMS, and menopause
- Improves insulin sensitivity, helping stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes
- Protects bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis
- Builds confidence and reduces anxiety and depression
How to Start (Without Feeling Intimidated)
Start At Home
If you’re new to working out and feeling intimidated by the idea of lifting weights and going to the gym, I highly recommend you start with my At-Home series. There are 3 guides to choose from and all the workouts can be done from the comfort of your home. Getting started at home is a great way to start muscle building for women (and building confidence) before you ever step foot in a gym! These guides got me (and so many of you!) through the pandemic.
Start In The Gym
My recommendation for building lean muscle mass is my gym-based Strength series. Seriously LIFE CHANGING! These guides utilize progressive overload, which focuses on gradual increases over time to keep your body out of plateau. I totally understand being intimidated by the gym, but I promise I packed these guides full of information, education, and tips for navigating a gym. Be brave, it’ll be worth it!
The Real Glow-Up
Lifting isn’t just about reshaping your body—it reshapes how you feel in it. You become more energized, resilient, and empowered. Muscle is your friend, your fuel, and your future.
If you’ve been hesitant to start strength training, consider this your gentle nudge. Your body (and your future self) will thank you.
Read More About Strength Training & Muscle Building:
5 Ways To Build Muscle Mass in 2025
