Advice on where to start with weights

eleanorblack

I'm sure people ask the same question a lot so please feel free to direct me to another thread!

I've lost about 50lbs (from 310 to 260) and would now like to start getting some more exercise going. I'm pretty strong - I used to do ocean sailing - I'm not especially cardio-fit but live a generally active life and don't belong to a gym (and don't want to!) I have no health issues or problems with joints or my back or anything.

I hear that free lifting is the way to go - so what I wanted to know is if anyone could suggest any good DVDs/equipment I'll need to get me started at home? And any fun cardio ones to help me get a bit less breathless when chasing my son round the park!

I'm in the UK, so only things I can order here please :-)

AestheticStar

Most fitness trainers say you should start with a low weight, maybe 3 to 5 pounds for beginning, & build up from there. I started with 5 pounds, because that's all I currently own. I need to buy some heavier ones to build up. Resistance bands are also really good, & tend to be more effective than actual weights/dumbbells. So you could look into those.

There are some DVDs that build up strength training, like Jillian Michaels "30 Day Shred". You mostly use weights, & bodyweight, & there's some cardio involved.
If you'd like to check a channel out on YouTube that has TONS of free workout videos you can use on your laptop that either require minimal equipment or just your own bodyweight, check out Fitness Blender on YouTube. They have loads of cardio videos, from beginners to intermediate & harder ones. Plus strength training videos, & pilates/yoga. They are worth checking out. I work out to their stuff a lot.

lauren3101

Stonglifts 5 x 5 is what I started on - it's easy to follow for beginners (and it's free!). You could also check out New rules of lifting for women.

As for equipment, obviously you need the weights, most certainly a weight bench, and ideally, a squat rack. I bought my weight bench from someone on a facebook selling page for £40, and you can get squat racks for a little over £100 on ebay. It's a big layout in the beginning, but when you consider the cheapest gym membership is probably £40, that equipment pays for itself very quickly.

Good luck!

meerkat70

I'd go with one of the good beginner's programmes - strong lifts or starting strength are both easy to get your head around. If you're naturally strong, I reckon these will be fun for you. If you have a decent instructor at your gym, get them to show you the basic lifts needed for this. You could also try the New Rules of Lifting for Women. Have to say, while there's a lot of good info in there, I found it a bit fussy for my busy mind.

Don't start with lots of reps and piddly weights. It's dull, and it achieves relatively little.

RebekahR84

If you can swing it, I recommend booking just a few appointments with a personal trainer. They'll help you gauge your fitness level, max-out your weights, and make sure you're using the correct form.