Weight training kills many birds with one stone—it improves strength, power, endurance, cardiovascular health, body composition, balance, and flexibility.
Yes, flexibility!
Many women avoid lifting weights because they believe it will make them tight and stiff. But research proves the opposite—when performed through a full range of motion, weight training can significantly enhance flexibility.
The Science Says Otherwise
A 2015 study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging examined the effects of resistance training on flexibility in older women:
🔹 Participants: 53 women (60+ years old) trained either two or three times per week for 12 weeks.
🔹 Exercises: Eight movements, 10-15 reps per set.
🔹 Results:
✅ Increased flexibility in multiple joints, including hip flexion and cervical extension.
✅ Training three times per week led to greater hip flexion gains than twice per week (+12.8% vs. +3.0%).
✅ No significant difference in muscle gain between two or three days of training.
Read the full study: Click here
Busting the Flexibility Myth
The myth that weight training makes women inflexible is simply not true. Proper strength training—using a full range of motion—improves flexibility, not hinders it.
For more insight on this topic, check out my Stretch For Strength presentation.
![Stretch for Strength [Video Presentation]](https://theelitetrainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stretch-for-Strength-Video-and-Slide-Presentation.jpg)
Stretch for Strength [Video Presentation]
The most concise compilation of material on the subject of stretching that has ever been presented. Stretch for Strength is a must-see for all fitness enthusiasts, healthcare practitioners, personal trainers and strength coaches. The video presentation is 104 minutes long and comes with a 101-page slide presentation in PDF format.