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Nov 6, 2009
Hi Smoothy00. That is actually a great question that I have asked myself. Women do not have the genetics to build a lot of muscle. So if you want to get toned you will obviously start off with lighter weights (whatever you are comfortable with, even if it is heavier than 10 lbs) but once your muscles start getting used to it, you will have to increase the amount you are lifting. I lift weights, anywhere between 5 lbs to 55 lbs for upper body and 70 lbs - 90 lbs for lower body. I am far from big and bulky. You don't want to lift anything that is too light, as you may not see that toned look you would like to get. I hope that helps. I wish you all the best!
char is 100 percent correct...women do not produce nearly as much testosterone as men and that's what makes them able to bulk up like that. It's physically impossible, no matter how much weight you lift, to "bulk up" unless obviously dangerous steroids and or other drugs are part of that equation. So start slow and work your way up. good luck! ~Maria
to build lean muscles, light weight more reps are more important. instead of increasing your weight increase your number in your reps, or increase your reps.