Strength Training?!?

Pinkdueces2
Pinkdueces2 Posts: 48 Member
edited October 5 in Motivation and Support
I am 23 years old, 5'3, and 138 lbs. As I am losing weight, I would love to start building up some muscle. I just joined a gym, but I am terrified of all the weights. I want to just walk right over and use them, but I am so scared that I will do it wrong. I know that the gym is no place to be scared or embarrassed but I am. Weights have never been my thing, but I want them to be. I need to build up some muscle definition and I know that's the way to do it. So I guess my question is...should I ask someone for help, or search online for tips?!? What did you do?!? Thanks!!

Replies

  • taso42
    taso42 Posts: 8,980 Member
    I guess the most ideal would be to have somebody very competent give you an introduction to weight training and show you the proper form.

    Reading and watching videos can be the next best thing.

    "Starting Strength" by Mark Rippetoe is awesome.

    I've heard very good things about "New Rules of Lifting for Women".
  • ansonrinesmith
    ansonrinesmith Posts: 741 Member
    Check with your Gym for a personal trainer. I signed up and got 4 sessions for just that reason, so they could walk me through and show me proper use/technique.
  • missyyclaire
    missyyclaire Posts: 572 Member
    A session or two with a trainer would totally allay your fears. It's perfectly natural to feel a little out of sorts in a new space like that....I know cuz I just started going back to do the same thing you're wanting to do, build some muscle. I'm gonna take a few refresher lessons in the next week or so. Back in the 90's I had a trainer and she taught me great form and technique that I still remember. Still, a little reminder sure will help.

    Good for you for going!
  • engineman312
    engineman312 Posts: 3,450 Member
    read this: http://nerdfitness.com/blog/2011/07/21/meet-staci-your-new-powerlifting-super-hero/
  • tigerblue
    tigerblue Posts: 1,526 Member
    Most gyms have some sort of "oreintation" class that you could sign up for. They will show you how to use all the machines.

    I remember being very intimidated by EVERYTHING in the gym. It helped that I had a friend who joined with me, and we learned together. You DO have to get over feeling like everyone is watching you. Most people are way too involved in their own workouts to even look your way! Think about it--do you really watch people that much when you are there? The important thing is you are doing something good for yourself!

    Hope that helps.
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