Why more women are lifting weights

Written by Charlotte Gretton from ForgedFit Gyms

For years, weightlifting has been seen as the domain of men.

The heavy plates, chalk-covered hands, and barbell racks often felt off-limits to women—especially those navigating big life shifts like motherhood, perimenopause, or retirement. But that’s changing.

More and more women are discovering the transformative power of strength training—not just for their bodies, but for their minds, social lives, and even their careers.

At ForgedFit Burton, we’ve seen first-hand how lifting weights can be life-changing. And it’s not just about what happens in the gym—it’s about what happens outside it too.

The physical benefits: Strength, stability and longevity

Let’s start with the obvious: strength training makes you stronger. But it’s so much more than building muscle.

For women, lifting weights helps:

• Preserve and build lean muscle mass, which naturally declines with age
• Improve bone density, crucial for reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures—especially after menopause
• Support joint health, reducing everyday aches and stiffness
• Increase metabolic rate, helping with body composition and weight management
• Boost balance, posture, and coordination, which are key to staying active and independent into later life

Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, it’s never too early or too late to start. The benefits are both immediate and long-term.

The mental benefits: Confidence, resilience and mental health

Weightlifting doesn’t just change your body—it changes your mindset.

Many women report feeling more:

• Confident—not just in how they look, but in how they carry themselves
• Empowered—realising they can lift more than they ever thought possible
• Mentally resilient—each session proves they can do hard things
• Less anxious and more energised, thanks to the mood-boosting effects of regular, purposeful exercise

For women dealing with hormonal shifts—during perimenopause, menopause, or even post-pregnancy—these benefits are critical.

Strength training helps regulate sleep, improves mood, and reduces the feelings of overwhelm that often come with life transitions.

The social benefits: Belonging, support and friendship

One of the most underestimated benefits of joining a gym like ForgedFit is the community.

Fitness doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. In fact, we believe it shouldn’t be. Our women-only weightlifting courses create a space where women of all backgrounds and ability levels can:

• Learn the basics of lifting in a non-intimidating, welcoming space
• Celebrate each other’s wins, big or small
• Form real friendships and connections through shared progress

Over time, many of our course graduates go on to join our wider classes—becoming part of a thriving, uplifting gym community where support is just as important as the sets and reps.

The professional benefits: Healthier, happier employees

Employers take note: encouraging women to engage in strength training isn’t just good for the individual—it’s good for business.

Women who lift weights tend to:

• Have better energy levels throughout the day
• Report lower stress and better sleep
• Experience fewer sick days and injuries
• Show higher self-confidence and productivity at work

Companies that invest in the well-being of their staff—especially women navigating menopause or long working hours—are rewarded with a more engaged, resilient workforce.

Supporting gym memberships, wellness programs, or even workplace fitness partnerships can pay huge dividends in terms of morale and long-term health.

A new way in: The ForgedFit women’s weightlifting course

At ForgedFit, we created our women-only weightlifting course to be more than just a fitness class.

It’s a gateway—a chance for women to build strength and confidence in a space designed for them.
There’s no pressure, no judgment—just expert coaching, friendly faces, and real results.

Whether you’ve never touched a dumbbell or you’ve tried gyms before and felt out of place, this course is for you. It’s about feeling strong again, not just physically, but in every area of your life.

And when you’re ready, there’s a whole community here waiting to cheer you on as you continue your journey.

Final thoughts: Strong women change the world

We believe every woman deserves to feel strong, capable, and connected—at every age and stage of life. And we’re proud to be part of a growing movement that’s breaking the old fitness rules and redefining what strength looks like.

Ready to lift? Your future self will thank you.

For more details contact - 07467 063873