Completely lost . . .

becky_turcotte

I have joined the local gym. Actually did that in March, but haven't tried the weights. I go every day, but stick to the cardio machines. To be honest, it comes down to the fact that I don't want to look stupid. Any suggestions for web sites or the like for a plan?? Any help would be greatly apprecated.

JessicaMarie9382

I feel you there! I SO wanna use the weigh training machine, but I haven't the first clue about them! And I also have that fear of looking stupid....I would appreciate tips too!

alienblonde1

Does the gym offer personal trainers at all? If so even one lesson with one will help.

ceschwartz

Ask if your gym has someone who can teach you or if you get a free session with a personal trainer/fitness assessment (lots of gyms offer them).

datzun

I actually feel the same way. I stick with small weights/push ups/crunches at my place because of it.

And this is in my building's gym, so there are no trainers.

mjhuff1121

I use WorkoutBOX.com. It;s a purchase program, but I got mine for less than a 1.20 per week (each program is a 26week program, you purchase at once)! I've only used for a month now (I started July 1st) but so far it's been good for me. It does cardio, then resistance training. Pretty cool, I think!

becky_turcotte

They do not have trainers. I am friends with the owner, but he is only there during the work day, and since I work full time. That's not an option. My brother was going to help, but he left for a yr deployment on Friday. :frown:

kkova811

I recommend looking up Scott Herman Fitness on youtube. He was on the Real World a few years ago as a fitness model and now he is dedicated to helping people learn to work out and get in shape. He has his website (which is pay-for), free youtube videos, and advice on his facebook and twitter account.

methetree

Ask the gym if there is someone available to demonstrate the machines so that you know how to use them properly.
They usually have someone who will go over them with you, show you how to change the weights, etc.

jamie78

The New Rules of Lifting for Women: Lift Like a Man, Look Like a Goddess by Lou Schuler
This is an awesome book! It gives you step by step instruction and tips...

teri1956

They do not have trainers. I am friends with the owner, but he is only there during the work day, and since I work full time. That's not an option. My brother was going to help, but he left for a yr deployment on Friday. :frown:

We'll keep your brother in our thoughts during his deployment. My son is in the Army and it can be a worrisome time.

ickybella

I like bodybuilding.com

brookbanter

I so feel your pain! My recommendation is to pick a machine you want to know more about. Just walk over and look at it. Read the instructions. Check out what you can adjust (weights, seat, handles, whatever.) Basically just scope it out with complete confidence like you know exactly what you're doing. You won't look silly because all these machines have slight-to-significant differences. Pretend you're an expert and just visiting a new gym with different equipment. Then you could either look up that machine online to see how it works, or you could watch someone else using it to get an idea. Also, biggest tip I have for actually using them is to use slowish, smooth strokes, and don't let the weights clank together. Good luck!

starracer23

Are you talking about the machines or the free weights?
On most machines there is a diagram and a description on how the machine works and how to use it, have you checked to see if there is one on the machines at your gym?

LeeKetty1176

run keeper

SamiSamiBoBlammy

Post an ad on craigslist asking for an experienced workout buddy ?

ninerbuff

Most people in the gym are pretty kind. If you see someone using it, when they are done you could ask them. This is initially how I got started (we didn't have internet in the 80's) and when some one asked me, I would obliged. Don't be afraid to ask.

jamie78

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/dumbbellexercises.html
This is also a really good website...
It gives you complete instruction.

gjrie

Here's a site that may help. It's free. http://weighttraining.about.com/od/exercisegallery/Exercise_Gallery_of_Weight_Training.htm

NeedANewFocus

I like bodybuilding.com

I second that! However, if you use this site, dont get caught up in what the people look like (that's usually my problem :ohwell: ). Use it as a guide for great strength training exercises and pay special close attention to technique and form. Form is everything. Don't get caught up with how much weight. Choose a weight that challenges you, especially on the last few reps within your set. You'll see great results and improvements from week to week. :happy:

dragonflydi

If you joined a gym, they should automatically offer you training on the machines, even if you don't sign up for personal training. I would ask ... the worst they can do is say no right ... and I don't think they will

Edit: OK, sorry, missed the post about not having someone there other than the owner, who is not there when you are. Realistically, for liability purposes, there should be someone there who knows those machines any hour the gym is open to the public. Maybe the owner can talk to a 'regular' there who knows what they are doing that might be able to meet you there during the time you normally workout??

becky_turcotte

Thanks guys for the info. I'll check out the sites mentioned. Asking other's isn't one of my easiest actions, I'm not much of a people person, but it may be time to step out of my confort zone and bite the bullet. Thanks again!!! -B

RunHardBeStrong

The New Rules of Lifting for Women: Lift Like a Man, Look Like a Goddess by Lou Schuler
This is an awesome book! It gives you step by step instruction and tips...

^^^this!! I love this book, it is my bible!! I also use bodybuilding.com they have great plans and videos to show proper form and technique! Good Luck! Once I started I lifting I fell in love and prefer it over cardio any day!