Beginners weight lifting

Mr_Steve_V

I've joined a gym, done a few cardio classes, done the treadmill, and now I am ready to lift weights. I haven't lifted weights in 15+ years, so I want to gain strength but I want the look to be toned and not just a lump of muscle. Any pointers? Also when I was in high school we followed a pyramid system. I think it was like 5 sets increasing weights, then 3 reps decreasing sets and if you finished all without help then you move up on the scale. Can anybody tell me where I can find something like this and would this work also with curls also? thanks for any help

grantdumas7

A couple of suggestions are strong lifts and starting strength. These are basic fullbody workouts 3xper week.
http://stronglifts.com/stronglifts-5x5-beginner-strength-training-program/
http://startingstrength.wikia.com/wiki/The_Starting_Strength_Novice/Beginner_Programs

Starting strength does have power cleans. If you aren't comfortable with them you could replace them with barbell rows.