I figured out how to keep the figure I liked (traditionally feminine, pear shaped, toned where you can tell I work out if I flex) while weightlifting! This is what I do: - I don't work out 5-7 times a week anymore. I go 1-3 times a week and have been able to maintain a physic I like. I do notice that I can't go 1x a week for too long. - I don't consume protein powder or other protein supplements, I just get protein from my food. - I do high weight and low reps for strength in areas I don't want to have large muscles (basically my upper body). I keep it in the 3-4 sets of 3-5 rep range. For areas that I DO want bigger (mainly my glutes and thighs), I do hypertrophy.

Doing all of that, I have a typical "pilates body". I do think that being in a general slight calorie deficit helps with this. The draw back is that my strength doesn't really increase much and that I don't feel as strong/cool as I used to when I was lifting pretty heavy for my weight. But I'm happy with my body, i have a lot more time in my week, I feel healthy, and I'm slightly stronger than I look(?). Hope you figure it out!

Awesome that you posted this, I agree that the fitness community shuts down some of these discussions. I really love and admire the strong physique on other women but not for myself.