Rock climbing inspired me to begin weight lifting. I got muscles in my arms and back from climbing 'boy' climbs (over-hung, steep, long routes). When i developed arthritis in my thumb, i couldn't climb as consistently as i wanted to. Climbing requires stamina, flexibility,knowledge, technique and a strategic strength-to-weight ratio doesn't hurt. I find the same qualities in weight training, and like climbing, i'm always, ultimately competing with myself.
I love bodybuilding for he discipline, the practice, the attention to form. My guiding question is "what am i capable of?" and i like using lifting to try to answer that question.
Strength training is an investment in both the present and the distant future. I want to be healthy and strong now, but even more so when i'm much older.
As a woman, i find that i carry myself like a strong person, i look strong and that makes an impression on folks who might not take women seriously. If folks wear certain styles of clothing to express themselves or make an impression, having a well-muscled form is another way to make an impression.