Help with creating a beginning weight lifting routine

alhoward8

I would love to have a trainer, but I'm saving my money for when my car goes kaput so while my health is important my cash reserve is more vital at the moment.

I have joined a gym and I've spent the last week getting back into the habit of getting off the couch and DOING something. I have been doing cardio usually about 20-25 minutes before I get bored out of my mind.

I have used the weight machines before but never really in any sort of habit. What would you guys recommend as a good starting point? I would like to lift 2-3 times a week.

Thanks!

Stats: Female, 30 years old, 196 pounds, 5 ft 3 in

usmcmp

Check out bodybuilding.com. You can pick a plan based on gender, age and goal. They not only outline a routine but they have videos showing you how to do everything. Best part is: it's free, you don't even have to make an account.

Libby81

I just bought the book New Rules of Lifting for Women. Basically it advocates that women should lift heavy, gives nutritional advice on how to support workout recovery, helps you work out your own calorie intake, oh and gives you a work out plan in 7 stages that covers about 25 weeks give or take the time out in between. I'm starting it properly on Monday, but I'm really excited after reading the book

In the meantime, weighted squats and lunges, you can use the dumbells or body bar over your shoulders either way works and is effective

shamr0ck

Don't be afraid to lift heavy - i've been working with a trainer for about six months, and i am in love with lifting! *DO* make sure you are using correct form, however - don't hurt yourself. Keep your routines varied and interesting, and make sure you train alternating muscle groups for balance. Don't neglect your core! it's amazing what you can do with just your own bodyweight, as well.

Good luck, and let us know how it goes.