Would it be okay if I lift 12-15 times instead of 8 times, for 1-2 sets, 3 days per week? I am a muscular woman and tend to bulk up very easily. I watch my diet and am trying to slim down a bit. I understand the importance of both lifting weights and aerobic exercise, but in my case, the 8-repetition recommendation might be a little too heavy because it seems like it makes me bulkier. Thanks for all your help and for the wonderful books.

While there is no scientific evidence that lifting an amount of weight sufficient to fatigue your muscles by 8-repetitions will cause you to “bulk up”, anecdotal information suggests this may be true for a few individuals. For the majority of women, lifting this amount strengthens and tones muscles and actually causes them to drop a dress size or two.

However, there are some individuals (like yourself) who may build muscle more easily than others. If you prefer to lift a slightly lighter amount of weight - one which you can lift 12-15 times in good form before needing a rest - that is fine. You will still strength your muscles and bones, and enjoy the slimming effects of lifting weights regularly.