In today's episode of the Pulling Curls podcast, Hilary Erickson is joined by fitness expert Kaleigh Cohen to discuss the importance of strength training for women. They dive into the benefits of resistance training, especially for bone health and overall functionality as we age. Hilary shares personal stories and insights, while Kaleigh offers practical tips on how to get started and find the right weights for your workouts. Tune in for an empowering discussion that could transform your exercise routine and health trajectory.

Big thanks to our sponsor Family Routines -- if you want to get some strength training in your life -- this is the key!

Today's guest is Kaleigh Cohen. Kaleigh has two YouTube channels, Kaleigh Cohen Cycling & Kaleigh Cohen Strength. She creates indoor cycle & strength programs that will transform you into an unstoppable force.

Links for you:

Kaleigh's other episode on exercise in pregnancy (episode 248)

Timestamps:

00:00 Pulling Curls podcast: pregnancy, parenting, routines, YouTube.

06:05 Start with basic weights; focus on form.

07:24 Working out despite weight challenges; gradual progress.

10:23 Workouts help me discover and surprise myself.

Keypoints:

• Discussion on the importance of strength training for women's overall health, especially as they age.

• Introduction of guest Kaleigh Cohen, who runs two YouTube channels focused on strength training and cycling.

• Personal anecdotes from Hilary about her mother's severe bone issues and how it motivated her to take strength training seriously.

• Explanation of how resistance training helps increase bone density and overall strength.

• Clarification that strength training won't lead to unwanted bulking up due to different testosterone levels in women.

• The misconception that walking alone isn't sufficient for comprehensive strength training benefits.

• Recommendations for starting weights for beginners: light (5 lbs), medium (10 lbs), and heavier (15 lbs) sets, emphasizing good form.

• Encouragement for even small, consistent efforts in strength training, such as 10 minutes, three times a week.

• Personal insights from Kaleigh on how exercising helps her manage life's challenges and improve other aspects of life.

• Call to action for women to start strength training, regardless of age, to avoid future bone-related health issues and maintain functionality.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

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