New, female trying to build some muscle!

charlton200

Hi all!

Been a lurker for a while, but thought I would be brave and post!

I started at the gym 3 years ago, mainly for rehab, as I had pretty bad accident (fractured spine and multiple pelvic fractures among use the many injuries!), and for the first 2 and a half years, it was all about training to walk normally and over longer distances. I'm pretty much as healed as I'm gonna be now, and maintaining that's not a challenge.

So......6 months ago, I took up cycling (on road), which is great, but I then decided I wanted to tone up as well! So about 2 months ago I began using the weight machines at the gym, and I love it!!!!!!!! My slightly bizarre goal is to be able to do chin ups. I would like to move on to free weights, just a bit concerned about getting the technique right, as my back is still a bit dodgy. Hoping to put sone cash aside and get a PT for a few weeks to teach me properly hopefully that will be in July.

Anyone with and tips or advice........much appreciated!

And thank you all for what I have been reading over the last few months!

gmhenry2014

Hi there. I'm a female based in the UK & have been lifting weights for the past three years. It's one of the most rewarding things I've ever done! Congrats on what you have achieved so far. Chin ups are still one of my ultimate goals. I agree it's a great idea to get a PT. Even if it' s only for a few sessions. Keep aiming high!

jlvanderstoel

Having a PT to get you started sounds like a great idea, best of luck, lifting weights is awesome!

frood

You might also want to check with your doctor to see if there are any specific weight-bearing exercises that you should avoid. For example, I have a friend who front squats because her shoulder injury doesn't allow her to back squat.

When you meet with the PT, you might wish to have an outline of possible exercises to focus on. Stronglifts 5x5 has a bunch of info on its website - maybe look through there and see if that's the sort of thing you want to bring up with the trainer.

Good luck! :flowerforyou:

LiftHeavyWeights

Hi, I lift weights & love it. I believe compounds lifts are the way to go. squats, bench press, overhead press. deadlift

I managed to do 2 chin ups today. Still working on pull ups. Been working on chin ups/ pull ups many months. It is challenging, but doable with a steady, progressive approach and a lot of patience. www.fitness666.com to see progressions.

Sounds like you have accomplished a lot. I'm sure with your determination you can & will conquer your other goals.

geekyjock76

I agree that you may want to get cleared - if you haven't already - with a specialized to ensure there aren't any contraindicative exercises.

Regarding the Personal Trainer, I'd come up with a few key questions and interview them. Like any profession, some are reputable, learned individuals whose education is backed by peer reviewed journals and capable of instructing various lifting techniques while others aren't.

You can also look into Starting Strength and Strong Lifts. Searching Mark Rippetoe on youtube is a great resource, too, for watching proper form on many major lifts.

charlton200

Thanks all! Im fine with weights, only thing I cant do is high impact - so no running for me!

Never thought about interviewing PT's, but it makes sense!