Getting back into the gym

kellsey4955

I’m hoping to get back into the gym when I restart uni in October, I used to be a big runner cardio freak.. so, how do you bridge the scary gap into strength training? I’ve always been so afraid to try because I am ‘weak’, I struggle to lift a heavy jug of water let alone weights... what’s a good starting point to overcome my fear?

jemhh

Either New Rules of Lifting for Women or Strong by the same authors may be helpful.

Remember, you don't have to be strong in order to start strength training. Just like you don't have to be an accomplished pianist in order to take piano lessons. As a beginner, it is normal and expected that you're weaker than you'll be with training under your belt. Nothing to be nervous about.

JessAndreia

Don't be afraid to start with 5 pound dumbbells, or set machine weights on the lowest if that's all you can handle. I started strength training after 4 years of being very sedentary so I didn't have much strength either, and all I could handle was 7.5 pound dumbbells for 10 reps of chest press, and could only do body weight squats (due to my stability and mobility not being the best, too). Eventually, I was able to do chest press with a 60-pound barbell at least, and goblet squats with 25 pound dumbbell.

Kenda2427

You are a beginner, start with body weight exercises, then add low weights and just progress from there. Don’t start heavy and injure yourself

frida001

Take classes that incorporate weights such as Power Pilates, circuit strength classes, etc. I also started with a personal trainer to make sure that my form was right.

frida001

I also agree with @jessandreia92 - it's helpful that your body starts to get familiar to the movements it's going to do (such as squats) before you incorporate weights.