Strength training/Weightlifting

I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

Replies

  • Sam_I_Am77
    Sam_I_Am77 Posts: 2,093 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

    This is meant to be snippy in any way. Why focus on just one? If your goal is weight management and just general fitness then why not do some strength training and cardio? It's good to have a balance of strength and conditioning. If you're limited on time, perhaps do strength training 2 or 3 days per week and do cardio 2 or 3 days per week. Just whatever you do strength-training wise, make sure you follow a well-structured program that's available via ebook or by a good personal trainer.
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    I don't have the money in my budget for a trainer, as much as I'd love one. Do you have any recommended programs for a newbie?
  • giantrobot_powerlifting
    giantrobot_powerlifting Posts: 2,598 Member
    edited November 2015
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio?
    Start now. Cardio will help you burn fat, but muscle will help you metabolize calories at rest.

    Others will undoubtedly chime in on what programming you should use -- and I say this as a powerlifter -- you do not have to necessarily train like a powerlifter to see benefits of training with weights.
  • jacklifts
    jacklifts Posts: 396 Member
    It'll take 4-6 months for your body to adapt to lifting weights, i.e. learning the movements safely, becoming efficient at them, etc. before you get strong enough to be able to add substantial muscle. If you start now, by the time you're ready to really start, you can hit the ground running.
  • Sam_I_Am77
    Sam_I_Am77 Posts: 2,093 Member
    There are a few good programs, just off the top of my head...

    - New Rules of Weight Lifting
    - Starting Strength
    - StrongLifts
    - IceCream Fitness
    - Beyond 5/3/1

  • rileysowner
    rileysowner Posts: 8,329 Member
    To recommend programs, it would be helpful to know what you have available to you. Do you go to a gym with a weight room? Do you workout at home? If at home, do you have any equipment available?
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    I have a gym membership, so I have access to machines and free weights. I cannot afford a trainer, as much as I'd love that. To be honest, I'm extremely intimidated to use the free weights at the gym since I'm so new to all of this and it's always full of very fit people who seem to know what they're doing. However, that might be my only option as I don't have a ton of equipment at home...just some dumbells ranging from 1lbs to 25lbs, a jump rope, and a pullup bar...(which I cannot even do yet).
  • LKArgh
    LKArgh Posts: 5,178 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

    I would personally not invest time in exercise that had as goal to achieve a certain look, in a limited period of time, and then quit, since it would mean whatever accomplishment was made it would just be lost once the routine is finished. So, unless training for an event, I would do nothing that should accomplish X in Y weeks, that would have me burn out or that I would not plan to stick with for a while.
    For exercise to be beneficial on the long run, it needs to be become a part of your routine. Find whatever you think you can stick with, something that sounds interesting and affordable and start now. Do not see it as a means of looking a certain way and then giving up, because this is pointless after a while. If it is worth doing, then start now. If it is a chore or an inconvenience, then most likely it will not be doable on the wrong run.
    Ideally you need both cardio and strength training, either in separate routines, or an activity that combines both. Figure out what you can do and are willing to do for a while and start now.
  • rileyes
    rileyes Posts: 1,406 Member
    I would add a 10-15 minute bodyweight circuit to keep or perhaps build strength.

    4 sets of 10-15 reps:

    A.
    Static Lunges (each side)
    Plank
    Step-ups (es)
    Suspension rows

    B.
    Squats
    Push-ups (wall or chair or floor)
    Suspension rows
    Sit-ups
    Bridges

    Dedicate at least one month to these circuits. In 30 days, you can see the change. As you lose weight, you can add in some Dumbbells or Kettlebells.
    Keeping as much LBM as you can may help you with the weight loss and fitness process.
  • jemhh
    jemhh Posts: 14,261 Member
    jacklifts wrote: »
    It'll take 4-6 months for your body to adapt to lifting weights, i.e. learning the movements safely, becoming efficient at them, etc. before you get strong enough to be able to add substantial muscle. If you start now, by the time you're ready to really start, you can hit the ground running.

    Your first sentence sounds like nonsense.

    OP, here are several programs. With the equipment you have on hand, you might want to try the bodyweight version of Strong Curves to start.

    Strength training programs
    * Strong Curves - http://bretcontreras.com/wp-content/uploads/Strong-Curves-Workout-Templates.pdf
    * All Pro's - http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=4195843
    * NROLFW - http://www.thenewrulesoflifting.com/nrol-for-women
    * Stronglifts - http://stronglifts.com/
    * 5/3/1 (get the book but this is a calculator) - https://blackironbeast.com/5/3/1/calculator
    * Greyskull - http://strengthvillain.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=89
    * Fierce 5 - http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=159678631
    * Lyle McDonald's barbell and machine routines - http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/muscle-gain/beginning-weight-training-part-4.html/
    * A Workout Routine (beginner) - http://www.aworkoutroutine.com/the-beginner-weight-training-workout-routine/
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    aggelikik wrote: »
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

    I would personally not invest time in exercise that had as goal to achieve a certain look, in a limited period of time, and then quit, since it would mean whatever accomplishment was made it would just be lost once the routine is finished. So, unless training for an event, I would do nothing that should accomplish X in Y weeks, that would have me burn out or that I would not plan to stick with for a while.
    For exercise to be beneficial on the long run, it needs to be become a part of your routine. Find whatever you think you can stick with, something that sounds interesting and affordable and start now. Do not see it as a means of looking a certain way and then giving up, because this is pointless after a while. If it is worth doing, then start now. If it is a chore or an inconvenience, then most likely it will not be doable on the wrong run.
    Ideally you need both cardio and strength training, either in separate routines, or an activity that combines both. Figure out what you can do and are willing to do for a while and start now.

    I'm looking for overall fitness and health as a lifestyle. However, I cannot say I don't wish to see physical improvements either. In any case, I have done plenty of diets in the past and I'm not looking for short term anymore. Because this is a big change, though, I'm starting somewhat slow so that I don't burn out and can maintain the things I implement. I've already started, just looking for advice on the right track.
  • KaiUneeda
    KaiUneeda Posts: 46 Member
    Fit Girls Guide or Way of Gray. I am not sure about the cost, but it is worth looking into.
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    rileyes wrote: »
    I would add a 10-15 minute bodyweight circuit to keep or perhaps build strength.

    4 sets of 10-15 reps:

    A.
    Static Lunges (each side)
    Plank
    Step-ups (es)
    Suspension rows

    B.
    Squats
    Push-ups (wall or chair or floor)
    Suspension rows
    Sit-ups
    Bridges

    Dedicate at least one month to these circuits. In 30 days, you can see the change. As you lose weight, you can add in some Dumbbells or Kettlebells.
    Keeping as much LBM as you can may help you with the weight loss and fitness process.

    Thank you!
    jemhh wrote: »
    jacklifts wrote: »
    It'll take 4-6 months for your body to adapt to lifting weights, i.e. learning the movements safely, becoming efficient at them, etc. before you get strong enough to be able to add substantial muscle. If you start now, by the time you're ready to really start, you can hit the ground running.

    Your first sentence sounds like nonsense.

    OP, here are several programs. With the equipment you have on hand, you might want to try the bodyweight version of Strong Curves to start.

    Strength training programs
    * Strong Curves - http://bretcontreras.com/wp-content/uploads/Strong-Curves-Workout-Templates.pdf
    * All Pro's - http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=4195843
    * NROLFW - http://www.thenewrulesoflifting.com/nrol-for-women
    * Stronglifts - http://stronglifts.com/
    * 5/3/1 (get the book but this is a calculator) - https://blackironbeast.com/5/3/1/calculator
    * Greyskull - http://strengthvillain.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=89
    * Fierce 5 - http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showthread.php?t=159678631
    * Lyle McDonald's barbell and machine routines - http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/muscle-gain/beginning-weight-training-part-4.html/
    * A Workout Routine (beginner) - http://www.aworkoutroutine.com/the-beginner-weight-training-workout-routine/

    Fantastic! Thanks!
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    KaiUneeda wrote: »
    Fit Girls Guide or Way of Gray. I am not sure about the cost, but it is worth looking into.

    Will do! thanks.
  • rybo
    rybo Posts: 5,424 Member
    Do not wait.
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    as a matter of general fitness, I focus on both. i usually ride 4-5 days per week and lift 3x weekly.
  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    Sam_I_Am77 wrote: »
    There are a few good programs, just off the top of my head...

    - New Rules of Weight Lifting
    - Starting Strength
    - StrongLifts
    - IceCream Fitness
    - Beyond 5/3/1

    Thank you!
  • janet0513
    janet0513 Posts: 564 Member
    Definitely start now. If you have never lifted, maybe start with the machines until you get the form down. Some gyms offer some free training or orientation. If you are limited in time, then alternate cardio with weights. I do 3 days weights and run 3 days. Whatever you will stick to. Good luck.
  • rileysowner
    rileysowner Posts: 8,329 Member
    If you have a gym with a weight room, I would think something like Stronglifts 5x5 would be a good program as there are few exercises that make it up thus meaning you only have to learn proper form on a small number of exercises. I would suggest your fear of the "fit" people in the weight room is likely misplaced. Usually they are quite willing to be helpful. I would suggest youtube and this site are a wonderful source for working on getting your form correct.
  • LKArgh
    LKArgh Posts: 5,178 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    aggelikik wrote: »
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

    I would personally not invest time in exercise that had as goal to achieve a certain look, in a limited period of time, and then quit, since it would mean whatever accomplishment was made it would just be lost once the routine is finished. So, unless training for an event, I would do nothing that should accomplish X in Y weeks, that would have me burn out or that I would not plan to stick with for a while.
    For exercise to be beneficial on the long run, it needs to be become a part of your routine. Find whatever you think you can stick with, something that sounds interesting and affordable and start now. Do not see it as a means of looking a certain way and then giving up, because this is pointless after a while. If it is worth doing, then start now. If it is a chore or an inconvenience, then most likely it will not be doable on the wrong run.
    Ideally you need both cardio and strength training, either in separate routines, or an activity that combines both. Figure out what you can do and are willing to do for a while and start now.

    I'm looking for overall fitness and health as a lifestyle. However, I cannot say I don't wish to see physical improvements either. In any case, I have done plenty of diets in the past and I'm not looking for short term anymore. Because this is a big change, though, I'm starting somewhat slow so that I don't burn out and can maintain the things I implement. I've already started, just looking for advice on the right track.

    Great attitude, which is why I think you should focus on interesting. People who commit long term (and I do not mean a couple of years as long term) to an active lifestyle or to an exercise routine, they are doing because they have found out something they love (or several somethings over the course of years). Focus on interesting, and the rest will follow.
  • rileyes
    rileyes Posts: 1,406 Member
    aggelikik wrote: »
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    aggelikik wrote: »
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    I know starting this early is important as this journey is not just about cardio and diet but also about being fit and toned. At what weight/milestone would you guys recommend I begin focusing on more strength training and muscle building rather than cardio? I absolutely need cardio tight now as I'm in crappy shape, but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment. I also don't want to burn out. I was thinking I'd like to get into the 100s before really starting to focus in strength training. That gives me 34 more pounds to lose first. What do you all think?

    I would personally not invest time in exercise that had as goal to achieve a certain look, in a limited period of time, and then quit, since it would mean whatever accomplishment was made it would just be lost once the routine is finished. So, unless training for an event, I would do nothing that should accomplish X in Y weeks, that would have me burn out or that I would not plan to stick with for a while.
    For exercise to be beneficial on the long run, it needs to be become a part of your routine. Find whatever you think you can stick with, something that sounds interesting and affordable and start now. Do not see it as a means of looking a certain way and then giving up, because this is pointless after a while. If it is worth doing, then start now. If it is a chore or an inconvenience, then most likely it will not be doable on the wrong run.
    Ideally you need both cardio and strength training, either in separate routines, or an activity that combines both. Figure out what you can do and are willing to do for a while and start now.

    I'm looking for overall fitness and health as a lifestyle. However, I cannot say I don't wish to see physical improvements either. In any case, I have done plenty of diets in the past and I'm not looking for short term anymore. Because this is a big change, though, I'm starting somewhat slow so that I don't burn out and can maintain the things I implement. I've already started, just looking for advice on the right track.

    Great attitude, which is why I think you should focus on interesting. People who commit long term (and I do not mean a couple of years as long term) to an active lifestyle or to an exercise routine, they are doing because they have found out something they love (or several somethings over the course of years). Focus on interesting, and the rest will follow.

    So true. And I think you always have to create new goals to keep it interesting. I play tennis and workout to make my game better. But I'm at a point where I need to step it up a notch--maybe compete. Others may sign up for a Marathon or Spartan Race.

    I think you just have to start somewhere. Dedicate 30 days (a good goal). Once you get momentum and build confidence you may find it easier to find your direction.
  • mirrim52
    mirrim52 Posts: 763 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    To be honest, I'm extremely intimidated to use the free weights at the gym since I'm so new to all of this and it's always full of very fit people who seem to know what they're doing.

    Everyone in there was in there for the first time once. Try not to be intimidated :)

  • KetoNurse77
    KetoNurse77 Posts: 10 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    ...but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment.

    With your limited time, have you checked in to HIIT? I've read something that really highly intense exercise can show benefits in a fraction of the time as regular "cardio".

  • squeeeyk
    squeeeyk Posts: 165 Member
    squeeeyk wrote: »
    ...but I have limited time and cannot implement a ton of training aong with my cardio at the moment.

    With your limited time, have you checked in to HIIT? I've read something that really highly intense exercise can show benefits in a fraction of the time as regular "cardio".

    I've looked into tabata and hiit before, but I'm not advanced enough to be able to do these programs safely or effectively yet. Maybe someday in the future.