Can I Just Do the Circuit?

sabinaholtby

I've neared gw and starting to see how I'll look if I don't start growing muscle. I've seen slim lifts and other programs recommended, but can I just walk into Planet Fitness with a notebook and do the circuit, record my weights and try to increase then over time? This will be the beginning of my strength training. About 15 to gw.
Would this be a good way for my dad to start? Active job, about 50 to lose, 55, has an active job.
Do I need to split up cardio and weights?

I do apologise us these questions are repetitive or ignorant. I did try to search before posting.

Thank you very much.

stanmann571

sabinaholtby wrote: »

I've neared gw and starting to see how I'll look if I don't start growing muscle. I've seen slim lifts and other programs recommended, but can I just walk into Planet Fitness with a notebook and do the circuit, record my weights and try to increase then over time? This will be the beginning of my strength training. About 15 to gw.
Would this be a good way for my dad to start? Active job, about 50 to lose, 55, has an active job.
Do I need to split up cardio and weights?

I do apologise us these questions are repetitive or ignorant. I did try to search before posting.

Thank you very much.

If you've got a friend, or access to a trainer to compare your form with the standard, that's a plus, but otherwise, you've nailed it. As far as cardio+ weight training, that depends on how many days you have available and whether your goal is general fitness or a particular aspect.

No reason you can't do 20-30 minutes of moderate cardio(walk/run/bike/elliptical) on the same days you're lifting... If it's "leg day" squats/deads... you probably want to make it closer to light then moderate...

sabinaholtby

@stanmann571 thank you. This stuff is simple, but some people try to make it so hard!

rybo

sabinaholtby wrote: »

@stanmann571 thank you. This stuff is simple, but some people try to make it so hard!

I'm also thinking the 2 of you are on separate pages. You are talking about using machines correct? I believe he's thinking actual free weights where form is important.
The simple answer is yes you can go in and just do the circuit on the machines...it just may not be the optimal plan. But if you are happy with it, then have at it.

sabinaholtby

Thanks. Yes, I'm thinking machines. Why is it not optimal?

beanz744

sabinaholtby wrote: »

Thanks. Yes, I'm thinking machines. Why is it not optimal?

what u r thinking with doing a machine circuit is FINE. free weight from a purist perspective is 'better' because it requires u to use ur stabilizer muscles as well but it is harder to get into n i dont recommend it without a trainer. its like would u rather learn to drive in a corolla or in a van? still u should get someone to show u how to use the machines properly at least once.

PS i only use free weight so i dont have anything against it but i dont think every problem needs a hammer.

stanmann571

beanz744 wrote: »

sabinaholtby wrote: »

Thanks. Yes, I'm thinking machines. Why is it not optimal?

what u r thinking with doing a machine circuit is FINE. free weight from a purist perspective is 'better' because it requires u to use ur stabilizer muscles as well but it is harder to get into n i dont recommend it without a trainer. its like would u rather learn to drive in a corolla or in a van? still u should get someone to show u how to use the machines properly at least once.

PS i only use free weight so i dont have anything against it but i dont think every problem needs a hammer.

Form still matters with a machine. Also, PF(I'm a member... it's my umbrella) has a circuit "room" with 15 or 20 machines, and a timer.... basically it's a "full body" workout circuit in 30 minutes... you can jump on at any spot, and work around the room.. It's a good training wheels kind of thing. But as with anything, you get out what you put in.