A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF WOMEN ENGAGED IN STRENGTH TRAINING

Abstract

Background- Although the well-established health benefits of regular physical exercise and structured training programs are indisputable, women remain underrepresented in gym settings, with an even smaller proportion participating in strength and resistance training. Diverse motivations drive women to initiate such regimens, yet they encounter distinct barriers and influencing factors that shape their adherence. Engagement in resistance training often prompts notable physiological adaptations and shifts in body image and self-perception among women. Contemporary societal norms increasingly endorse women's pursuit of physical challenges, including strength training. Scientific evidence and advocacy have fueled rising awareness and acceptance of resistance training among women, empowering greater numbers to attain its key health and performance advantages. Objectives and Aim- This study aims to explore self-reported health benefits such as improvements in muscle strength, body changes, and metabolic health among women. The objectives are to identify these benefits from participants' practices Method- This quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study surveyed 384 women engaged in strength training (≥2 sessions/week for ≥6 months) across fitness centers in the Delhi NCR, India. Data were collected using a validated, self administered Likert-scale questionnaire (Cronbach’s α = 0.92) and analyzed using descriptive statistics via SPSS. Result- Participants reported profound multi-dimensional health gains, with psychological and metabolic improvements significantly overshadowing traditional aesthetic motivations. The highest levels of agreement were observed in increased body confidence (95%), enhanced mental resilience (93%), increased lifting capacity (92%), higher daily energy levels (90%), and improved sleep quality (87%). Conversely, reduction in body fat (72%) showed comparatively lower agreement. Demographically, the majority of participants were highly educated (72.9% holding undergraduate degrees or higher), privately employed (43.8%), and consistently trained 3-4 times per week (38.0%). Conclusion- Strength training serves as a holistic health intervention for women, yielding substantial psychological empowerment, functional autonomy, and metabolic vitality. However, despite these undeniable benefits, sustaining long-term adherence requires overcoming systemic obstacles such as occupational fatigue and work-family time constraints. Public health strategies must shift toward fostering flexible, inclusive fitness environments and workplace wellness initiatives to promote lifelong musculoskeletal health in women.