Lifting... when, where and how to begin?

I have a LOT of weight still left to lose and my workouts generally consist of cardio workouts. But I keep reading about how important lifting is as well, especially as someone who doesn't want to look like skin is hanging off of me when all is said and done. But I literally have NO idea where or how to even begin? Should I start now? How do I know what weights to start at, etc. I mean, I am clueless. I can Google it but thought some direct experience may be more beneficial (or maybe there's a great beginner lifting post somewhere?).

Thanks all!

Replies

  • JenMc14
    JenMc14 Posts: 2,389 Member
    Get New Rules of LIfting or New Rules of Lifting for Women. Go to muscleandstrength.com or bodybuilding.com and look at the programs they hav eon there as well as some of the articles. They also have videos to show correct form. Knowing how much weight to lift is a lot of trial and error. A good rule to start with is to start light and perfect form. Then, just keep adding weights until you can't do more than 10 reps for 2 sets without compromising your form. If you're completely new to lifting, you may progress up in weights fairly quickly. Definitely lift now, it will help you preserve muscle as you lose, and you'll feel great. If you belong to a gym, perhaps spring for one session with a trainer, specifically asking for them to show you how to properly use the free weights and have good form for the big, basic lifts like deadlifts, military press, squats, etc.
  • ladyjh578
    ladyjh578 Posts: 207
    Bodybuilding.com for Jamie Easons LIVEFIT 12 week program.
  • ThisGirl2013
    ThisGirl2013 Posts: 220 Member
    Maybe it doesn't count but honestly, I just started Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred and am using 5lb weights. It's def baby steps but I can tell that I DO want to get more in to it. However, I like to do all or nothing so if I start small and work my way and interest up slowly, I am more likely to STICK WITH IT :) I think I am going to check out the links the above poster mentioned and possibly just talk to a trainer once for ideas at the gym! I also have a friend that used to lift a lot and she offered to go the gym and provide pointers as well..
  • liftingbro
    liftingbro Posts: 2,029 Member
    Get New Rules of LIfting or New Rules of Lifting for Women. Go to muscleandstrength.com or bodybuilding.com and look at the programs they hav eon there as well as some of the articles. They also have videos to show correct form. Knowing how much weight to lift is a lot of trial and error. A good rule to start with is to start light and perfect form. Then, just keep adding weights until you can't do more than 10 reps for 2 sets without compromising your form. If you're completely new to lifting, you may progress up in weights fairly quickly. Definitely lift now, it will help you preserve muscle as you lose, and you'll feel great. If you belong to a gym, perhaps spring for one session with a trainer, specifically asking for them to show you how to properly use the free weights and have good form for the big, basic lifts like deadlifts, military press, squats, etc.

    New Rules of Lifting for women is perfct for any woman looking to start out.
  • MrGonzo05
    MrGonzo05 Posts: 1,120 Member
    Pick a good beginner program and start now. Follow the program. Follow the program.
  • aleesh_
    aleesh_ Posts: 137 Member
    I bought New Rules of Lifting for Women on my kindle, I just haven't gotten around to reading it yet. Also I went to Walmart to get some dumbells but they didn't have any 10 pound ones so I bought a resistance band and a fitness ball instead. They both came with a sheet showing how to do some simple exercises, but I went online to see it I could find more and I found this http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/wotw10.htm

    So that is where I am going to start! Also I plan on buying a barbell and some plates eventually, my husband said that Big 5 has deals on sets for $100 sometimes.