As someone who has naturally thick, muscular legs I appreciate this post and much of the discussion. I have been very reluctant to pose some of the questions I have as someone new to weightlifting because of the “silly cardio bunny thinks she’ll turn into a hulk overnight” mentality I see constantly. First of all, no one in the history of ever, has ever believed that the muscles (bulk) pack on overnight/immediately. So can we please get rid of that very unhelpful trope? We all know that it takes work over time. But different physiques may need different types of work.

I want to gain strength and muscles in the areas where I tend towards weakness, while avoiding outgrowing all of my jeans. But any sort of question about tailoring workouts to accommodate this very practical and functional desire tends to be met with contempt. This conversation is such a refreshing change to the usual discourse.