1. Cardio is not the secret to burning calories.

Source: @courtneyannfit

The more muscle you have, the more calories your body will burn every day. If you just do cardio day-in and day-out, you’re not building any new muscle, and your metabolic rate will pretty much stay the same. After a day of strength training though, your body continues to consume oxygen for hours and even days afterward. Consuming more oxygen means burning more calories and increasing your metabolic rate.

2. Because curves are sexy.

Source: @cynthialeu

Not all girls who lift have "crazy" hulk bodies. In actuality, women who weightlift love showing off firm butts (thanks, squats) and a nice chest too (thanks, bench). Lifting creates and sustains muscles that can give your body some really nice curves.

3. You'll get a better night’s sleep.

Source: @squatspo

Weight training leads to a longer, deeper night’s sleep with less waking up in between. If you have problems with insomnia, try getting into strength training. You might see a huge difference in the quality of your sleep.

4. It helps you maintain strong bones and a healthy heart.

Source: @jenzaroni

As women age, we are more prone to muscle and bone mass loss. Weightlifting prevents osteoporosis and strengthens your bones. The earlier you pick up some weights, the higher the chance you have to maintain healthy bones later in life. Pumping iron is even a recommended form of exercise from the American Heart Association for those at risk for heart disease.

5. You'll feel more confident about yourself.

Source: @ericafitlove

Weightlifting requires a lot of discipline and challenges your body physically and mentally. As you see yourself picking up heavier weights each week, you’ll have a higher appreciation for the hard work you put into making your body healthier and stronger. There isn’t an excuse when you can get in shape, look great, be healthy, and most importantly, feel more positive about yourself and life in general.