At the gym

LemonJADE

When I go to the gym how do I determine how much weight I should lift on the weight machines to go along with my usual cardio exercise?

ubermensch13

You'd like to be able to get 8-10 reps out of each set. So, add as much weight so it is hard, but not impossible, to do 8-10 sets.

ubermensch13

Reps I mean.

LemonJADE

Thank you!

yo_andi

You should use enough weight that it's difficult for you to crank out the last two reps of each set.

FullOfWin

I recommend you look at this http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/744311-free-weights-vs-machines-holy-crap

and then this http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/686963-large-collection-of-info-for-beginners

bikhi

i know free weights are better than machines but i have no one to spot for me. i'll use the machines because they're better than nothing.

FullOfWin

i know free weights are better than machines but i have no one to spot for me. i'll use the machines because they're better than nothing.

The gym should have a power rack which would allow you to lift safely alone. Alternatively you can ask any random for a spot on bench press at least since it is the most dangerous to do alone. I ask randoms frequently, and they are always happy to help. I also offer to spot randoms myself.

ahamm002

While free weights are much better, it's easiest to start out on machines. Aim to do 2-4 sets of each exercise. Aim for b/w 6-10 reps for each set. You should reach muscle failure by the end. The key is to progress. If you do 10 reps for 3-4 sets, then it's time to up the weights.