Why women should lift weights.

• Position: What's New? - Danskin Starter Strength & Toning Set - Brief Article

Danskin, Inc., has been the world's leading manufacturer of dance-, leg-, and activewear since 1882. Ah, but two century clicks have taken place since the company was founded, and it's a whole new world out there for women. That fact has not escaped Danskin or its authorized licensee, Fitness EM, Sutton, Mass., which has put together the Danskin Starter Strength & Toning Set ($49.99), a complete training package adapted to a female's physiology.

Don't believe the myth that strength training will make you big and bulky. This package of weights is engineered to tone and tighten a woman's body. Lean muscle increases metabolism, and higher metabolism burns more calories. Remember, women's fitness no longer is just about dieting and weight loss.

That said, the set includes two lightweight dumbbell bars, which, unlike men's, are padded with durable foam to protect skin and prevent callusing. This design...