Advice on Switching from weight machines to free weights

MCinSoCal

I've been wondering about this a lot lately. I feel like I've hit peak with the cardio equipment and weight pulley machines, they are really good for support though and show you what and how to use them. Not that I've maxed out on weight or anything, just I think you'd get more range and a better overall workout with the free weights.

My big concern is I have some back problems that tend to act up, so I do have to be careful with posture and twisting wrong, but I am feeling a lot stronger now and ready to switch things up.

So going into the free weight area, how does anyone know where to start if they've never lifted like that before?
I use small weights and dumbbells at home sometimes, but I think it's different?
I'm wondering if this would be a situation where you'd buy a training session or two at the gym or just dive right in? or if you should just research and try it on your own?

Also I have to say, it's a bit intimidating looking in there at all the buff dudes who all seem to know what they're doing and where everything is, goes and is for. I feel like I'd be a bit lost but want to try.

Any advice about all this would be great!
Thanks

jennifer_417

Bump...I want advice, too!

halleymw

Everyone here will point you to either stronglifts 5x5 or new rules of lifting. There are many videos of the exercises on youtube and you can review those before you start. So you think you can deadlift, so you think you can squat etc are good.
Certainly a session or 2 with a trainer could be helpful to help with your form, But you can do it on your own. Some people will take their phone and record their workout to ensure they maintain form during their workout.

A summary of stronglifts: 2 groups of exercises A and B. Do A one day, B 2 days later, A again etc. Each time you go to the gym, add weight. Start with the empty barbell and go up from there. Form is key. ..

A Squat, Bench Press, Bent Over Row
B. Squat, Overhead Press, Deadlift

http://stronglifts.com/stronglifts-5x5-beginner-strength-training-program/

Mike

alisonlynn1976

I'm taking a bodypump class, which uses barbells. This has been a good way for me to get started. Now I know how to do things like squats, bench presses, and overhead presses with a barbell.

MCinSoCal

Thank you both!
I will look up that stuff and check it all out.
I did take one Bodypump class about a year ago and everyone was really helpful, I just got so anxious, but that's a good idea, I think I'll try it again and keep going, gonna look up the class schedule at my gym.

Wildflowers70

Thank you for the very helpful info.

Tony_Brewski

Ask the trainer at your gym.