October Opposites: Getting Bulky

By Cameron Horsfall, MS, CSCS

Lifting weights will not make you “bulky” unless you are trying to look “bulky”. One of the most common reasons for gym-goers to ignore resistance training is they are afraid of putting on mass that they do not want for aesthetic purposes. Unfortunately, putting on mass in the gym is a rather lengthy process and does not come around accidentally.

Depending on who you ask in your gym, everyone will have different goals. Powerlifters aim for maximal strength while bodybuilders aim for size and aesthetics. Anyone that has trained as a bodybuilder before will tell you that it is quite difficult to put on mass without having your entire routine (diet, sleep, training, lifestyle) in check. Resistance training is generally aimed at strengthening and growing your muscle tissue. Strength is one of the most important factors in life once age starts setting in.

The earlier you can get into the gym to begin strengthening your body, the better! Do not steer clear of the weight room due to being worried about looking like you lift weights! Lifting weights can greatly benefit all areas of your life, in ways that you may not realize.