Strength Training: Starting point?

rainandwood93

I'm at a point where I'd like to think I'm relatively cardiovascularly fit at this point (6-7 days a week of either couch to 5k training or elliptical) but I'm realizing that I should take the advice from these boards and start with gaining strength (particularly because I have to run the Warrior Dash on April 5th).

I have ZERO upper body strength, but I've never done any strength training. I have access to my university's weight room, and I was wondering if anyone here could guide me through which machines to use, and how many reps to start with to begin to build some upper body strength(at this point I'm a little terrified of those big free weights, and don't have anyone to spot me). Hopefully with your help I can make working out in front of all of the male athletes in the weight room less uncomfortable by knowing what I'm doing!

Thanks!

3laine75

I'd try to use free weights if you can. 'Starting strength' is a great place to start if you can get your hands on a barbell (and smaller/lighter bars at the beginning if need be).

GradatimFerociter

You shouldn't really need a spotter at this point for anything you do in the free-weights room (you can even use dumbbells, which you can drop). This said, if you have decided machines are the way to go - which is your prerogative - I would just google "beginner machine workouts" and pick one you like the look of. If you don't like something, change it.

JoRocka

starting strength
strong lifts
new rules of lifting
strong curves


use a broom or pvc pipe if you think the bar is too heavy- but practice form and go from there.

Beeps2011

New Rules of Lifting for Women actually has a "group" here on mfp, if that's your pleasure - check it out! --->>> http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/102-new-rules-of-lifting-for-women-nrol4w