First of all, if you’re a woman who does not really want a new bulky look, you need not be worried about it; you will not specifically bulk up unless you are really specifically trying to do so. Strength-building techniques can be used without producing such an effect. Whatever your exact goals, you should make sure to use correct form, and keep in mind that your weights might be too heavy if you are not able to safely exercise using your correct form. How often you exercise should vary depending on your exact goals; if you want to become bigger and stronger, you will actually want to workout a little less often, while if the goal is to become leaner or increase the definition of your muscles, you will want to workout more. Either way, don’t be discouraged from working out if you are only able to do a little, as even a little is better than none and will bring you substantial health benefits.
As a general rule, you should start with more reps and weights that are lighter, and then gradually build over a matter of a few weeks, preferably four weeks. As you are able to lift more, decrease the number of reps and increase the weight of what you are lifting as is appropriate. As a general rule, you should be using a routine that leaves you fatigued after 10-12 reps. You’ll want to make sure you are choosing the proper resistance size in order to accomplish this and make your workout work better for you.
Using a few general tips, you should be able to see the benefits of a strength-building workout in no time.