Adding Strength Training to Cardio

Julie_Donahue

Where do I start?

Me:
Female, 43, SW 306, CW 302, GW 150?

I started walking on January 1st (seriously, actually did a little before that). I'm walking 2 miles almost every day except Sunday. I've completed 30 miles this year. Pace about 2.5-3.0 (according to the treadmill). Added Zumba (x30 minutes) 2 times a week.

I know I need to add some weights. I don't have a traditional gym membership, but I have access to a "Cardio Room" at the adult center in town. In addition to treadmills, bikes, and ellipticals, there are 2 of the "total gym" systems.

Looking for suggestions for where to start?
How much weight?
How many reps?
Where do I target?

If you know a good app (iPhone) that would be great!

Thanks!

mairinosteen

I am about the same weight as you SW 310, CW 306 and 5'8.5''

I don't know if this will help but here it is anyway:
I haven't used a total gym system but when I took a weight lifting class in college (I was about the same size then) my teacher recommended that I start with low weights (in some just using the machine without any weights added) doing 2 sets of 10 reps. You rest for about 30 secs in-between the sets. Gradually increase the weight as you are able.

Julie_Donahue

Thanks. I'm going to play around with them today. Maybe I'll figure them out!