New - what's a gym?!

brandihardin
brandihardin Posts: 2
in Fitness and Exercise
So I'm new to myfitnesspal and the whole nutrition/workout scene. I obviously know what a gym is (haha), and I've been a few times however I feel...lost. I don't have a routine at all, nor do I know what I should be doing or not doing for that matter.

I am 5'3, 140 lbs. Had a baby a year ago (c-section) so my stomach is one of my major target areas.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. The lifestyle of a busy, single mom isn't easy but gotta stay fit somehow!

Replies

  • brandihardin
    brandihardin Posts: 2
    I am also on the herbalife products :)
  • redraider08
    redraider08 Posts: 33 Member
    Good job on getting started, Brandi!

    Personally, I think gyms are overrated and there's so much you can do at home that an actual gym isn't even needed. If you have no experience training at all, then I'd suggest purchasing a follow-along, at-home workout program. There are some really decent ones out there. You could also purchase a TRX Suspension trainer for the fraction of the costs of a gym membership (which are usually based on 2-3 contracts) and use your own body as your gym. The base model comes with a follow-along workout and is easily to adjust to the level of the person using it.

    That said, if you really completely clueless (I say that in all candor), then it might be a good idea to hire a PT for a couple of sessions and learn proper form for basic exercises, i.e. squats, lunges, rows, presses.
  • bcattoes
    bcattoes Posts: 17,299 Member
    Does your gym offer personal trainer services. It might be a good investment to work with one to at least establish a routine.

    If that's not an option I'm sure you could find good routines online. Or if you are looking for weight training a lot of women on MFP seem to like New Rules Of Lifting for Women or Stronglifts 5x5. I've never tried either so I can't give an opinion. I just know they are popular.
  • christynek
    christynek Posts: 152 Member
    I would definitely get a PT or join some sort of workout class type thing. I've done both, and I love them equally!
  • mike_littlerock
    mike_littlerock Posts: 296 Member
    depends on YOU.. I personally LOVE going to my gym, I cant easily match the setup at home easily and I also love working out with my group. my gym would be considered bare bones by most people in here, as its just free weights and olympic lifting pits, but that is what i enjoy. I have friends that hate going to the gym, but have the discipline to get in their workouts at home. I also have a larger number of friends that hate going to the gym so they just dont do any workouts. lol

    In my mind, the BEST workout without doubt is the one that you do and can continue to do on a consistent basis. What comprises that workout, and WHERE you do that workout is less important. find something that you enjoy, and that fits in your schedule, and simply do that workout on a consistent basis.

    I do agree with the above posters that indicated that you might want to try a gym if you are a total newbie, just to learn the proper form and then make your decision from there. If interested in lifting, i would suggest Rachel Cosgrove's book "the female body breakthrough". I bought it for my wife and she loves it.

    best of luck to you and if you have any questions I can help you with i would be happy to help you (or anyone)
  • bunbunzee44
    bunbunzee44 Posts: 592 Member
    ask the gym personnel, they often have services like making you a gym program and they will answer all your questions :3
  • love4fitnesslove4food_wechange
    love4fitnesslove4food_wechange Posts: 6,897 Member
    I'd say start taking fitness classes...just to get a schedule set up. Or but the book "New Rules of Lifting for Women."
  • KenosFeoh
    KenosFeoh Posts: 1,837 Member
    Bodybuilding.com is a good site to check for workout plans. You can answer questions about your fitness goals, and a variety of fitness routines will be generated. You can print out a plan for each day, and some of them are even possible to do at home if you can invest in some basic fitness equipment (like a set of barbells).
  • CJ_Holmes
    CJ_Holmes Posts: 759 Member
    Depends what you like to do, but I rely on iphone apps.

    There are so many that can keep you going forever! I like "You are your own gym" which has endless body-weight exercises at all different levels. They are great because you get strong without needing any equipment. The routines are intervals, so you get cardio and strength at the same time. I don't actually follow the routines since I like to be outside, but I get my ideas there and learn new exercises.

    I also do "simply yoga" for flexibility- you can build your own routine or choose 20, 40, or 60 minute sets.

    Find stuff you like. Even 20 minutes will make a difference, especially body weight exercises. The basics rule- pushups, lunges, squats, jumping jacks.... and your kids can do them too.

    Have fun!!!

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