Benefits of weightlifting for women include burning more calories, building stronger bones

FALLBROOK – Many women steer clear of the free-weight areas inside their gyms, opting instead for treadmills and other cardio machines. Some women may not know how to use weights correctly, while others simply don't want to add any bulk to their frames.

But research shows that women who adhere to moderate strength-training programs two to three times per week can benefit in a variety of ways.

Burn more calories

Many people exercise to burn calories and shed fat, and weight training is an efficient way for women to do just that.

Resistance training is a great way to burn calories, as after a he...