The Confusion About Weightlifting, Bodybuilding, And Lifting Weights (Part 1) :

1. Lifting Weights: This can include weightlifting, bodybuilding, and/or weight training. By the way, when I use the term "weight training", I am going to include just about any sort of resistance training. With free weights (barbells and dumbbells mainly), and "weight machines" the resistance is gravity. Some machines, however, provide resistance by such means as springs, steel rods (Bowflex), or even your own bodyweight (Total Gym).

Bodybuilders, weightlifters, professional athletes, high school football players, golfers, gymnasts, and people who just want to get fit or lose weight may lift weights as part of their overall training program. This is simply "weight training". The great thing about lifting weights is that the number of possible exercises is large, the types of exercises are varied, and the training program can be easily tailored to the individual's capabilities, needs, and goals simply by varying the exercise, the weight used for each exercise, the number of repetitions performed of each exercise, and the number of groups of repetitions (sets) performed. A 180 pound, male tennis player can select one set of exercises, weights, repetitions, and sets; while a 110 pound housewife can select another.

3. Bodybuilding