weight training: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral, common in both semi-formal (fitness advice) and informal (gym) contexts.
Quick answer
What does “weight training” mean?
A form of strength training using weights (such as barbells, dumbbells, or weight machines) to increase muscular strength, endurance, and size.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A form of strength training using weights (such as barbells, dumbbells, or weight machines) to increase muscular strength, endurance, and size.
The systematic practice of performing exercises against resistance to condition and develop the muscles; often part of an overall fitness program and used by athletes, bodybuilders, and general fitness enthusiasts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term identically. 'Lifting weights' or 'weightlifting' are more common informal synonyms in both, though 'weightlifting' can specifically refer to the sport of Olympic weightlifting.
Connotations
None.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “weight training” in a Sentence
do [weight training]incorporate [weight training] into somethingbe into [weight training]use [weight training] for somethingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “weight training” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He weight-trains three times a week.
- She has been weight-training for years.
American English
- He weight trains three times a week.
- She's been weight training for years.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used as an adverb; 'train with weights' is preferred.)
American English
- (Rarely used as an adverb; 'train with weights' is preferred.)
adjective
British English
- She follows a strict weight-training regimen.
- The gym has excellent weight-training equipment.
American English
- She follows a strict weight training regimen.
- The gym has excellent weight training equipment.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In the fitness industry, e.g., 'Our gym offers premium weight training facilities.'
Academic
In sports science literature, e.g., 'The study examined the effects of periodized weight training on adolescent athletes.'
Everyday
Casual conversation, e.g., 'I'm going to the gym for some weight training later.'
Technical
In coaching or physiology, specifying sets, reps, load, e.g., 'Hypertrophy-specific weight training requires 8-12RM loads.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “weight training”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “weight training”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “weight training”
- Using 'weightlifting' as a perfect synonym (it's more specific). Saying 'I do a weight training' (uncountable, no article).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Bodybuilding is a sport focused on maximizing muscle size and symmetry. Weight training is a method used by bodybuilders, but also by athletes and general fitness enthusiasts for strength and health.
Yes. It increases muscle mass, which raises your resting metabolic rate, helping you burn more calories throughout the day, especially when combined with a good diet and cardio.
Typically 2-3 times per week on non-consecutive days to allow muscles time to recover and adapt.
Not necessarily. You can start with dumbbells or resistance bands at home, but a gym provides a wider range of equipment for progressive overload.
A form of strength training using weights (such as barbells, dumbbells, or weight machines) to increase muscular strength, endurance, and size.
Weight training is usually neutral, common in both semi-formal (fitness advice) and informal (gym) contexts. in register.
Weight training: in British English it is pronounced /ˈweɪt ˌtreɪ.nɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈweɪt ˌtreɪ.nɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No specific idioms, but part of phrases like 'hit the weights'.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of TRAINing your muscles to bear more WEIGHT.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE BODY IS A MACHINE THAT CAN BE BUILT/STRENGTHENED (building muscle, forging strength).
Practice
Quiz
Which term is the BROADEST category that includes 'weight training'?