Lost over 60 pounds and need to tone up - Where do I begin?

Reinventi0n
Reinventi0n Posts: 71 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I have lost over 60 pound and have just a little bit of weight left to lose. I think I am at a point where I need to really start focusing on body composition and toning. However, I am a total beginner when it comes to this and am not sure where to start. I don't have a gym membership but I am debating getting one. Currently I walk/jog sporadically, but don't do a whole lot besides that.

Any suggestions on where to begin? Ideally, I'd like to focus most on my upper body / arms but I am open to all suggestions.

Im a 23 year old guy, 5'10 and currently 162 pounds.

Thank you!!

Replies

  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    resistance/strength training. A gym membership would be great if you'll think you'll use it, but it's certainly not required. A bench and some dumbbells in your garage/basement can be more than fine, body weight exercises can be good, resistance bands can be a good start.

    Once you decide on where you'll be working out, then you'll know what equipment you'll have access too. Once you know that, we can make some more solid suggestions.
  • Reinventi0n
    Reinventi0n Posts: 71 Member
    Right now, I would probably prefer to workout at home. As much as I want to join the gym I worry that I won't keep up with it.
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    Reinventi0n wrote: »
    Right now, I would probably prefer to workout at home. As much as I want to join the gym I worry that I won't keep up with it.

    Do you have any equipment at home? Are you able/willing to purchase some basic stuff (a bench and some adjustable dumbbells) to start?

  • Reinventi0n
    Reinventi0n Posts: 71 Member
    I have a few hand weights, but that is about it. Yes, I am will to purchase some basic equipment to start.
  • cw106
    cw106 Posts: 952 Member
    edited November 2014
    Reinventi0n wrote: »
    Right now, I would probably prefer to workout at home. As much as I want to join the gym I worry that I won't keep up with it.

    gym would definately be a great starting point.
    many gyms do 1 month,6 week or 3 month memberships so people can try out before they commit to a contract.
    also many pay monthly no contract gyms too.
    all the equipment/ expertise is available on site.
    joined new gym on 3 month membership, got a health assesment and full 90 min induction with personal trainer who also set me up with a starter strength training plaining plan and ongoing full body cardio plan.all included in membership.
    best money i have spent in years!
  • JaneECS
    JaneECS Posts: 71 Member
    Do as much cooking from scratch as you can - as well as helping you keep your calories under control, all that chopping, stirring and (hand) whisking is a good basic workout. We also walk as much as we can, as part of our normal day - apparently my bum is much more toned now.
  • jeremywm1977
    jeremywm1977 Posts: 657 Member
    Reinventi0n wrote: »
    Right now, I would probably prefer to workout at home. As much as I want to join the gym I worry that I won't keep up with it.

    Your body is your best equipment. Body weight exercises are some of the best strength/resistance exercises, and elevating a part of the body or doing single limb movements is the best way to increase the difficulty.

    Pound for pound, nothing beats a pushup. Spread your hands further apart, or elevate your legs, or even raise one leg, and you've got even harder pushups.
    Squats and lunges (done right) are just as good. Grab a few water gallon jugs around the house for added resistance.

    No gym required.
  • jeremywm1977
    jeremywm1977 Posts: 657 Member
    Reinventi0n wrote: »
    I have a few hand weights, but that is about it. Yes, I am will to purchase some basic equipment to start.

    Adding on to my pushup filibuster, use those hand weights as pushup stands.......you'll get a few more inches of depth on your pushup, adding even more to the workout.
  • auddii
    auddii Posts: 15,357 Member
    jeremywm1977 wrote: »
    Reinventi0n wrote: »
    Right now, I would probably prefer to workout at home. As much as I want to join the gym I worry that I won't keep up with it.

    Your body is your best equipment. Body weight exercises are some of the best strength/resistance exercises, and elevating a part of the body or doing single limb movements is the best way to increase the difficulty.

    Pound for pound, nothing beats a pushup. Spread your hands further apart, or elevate your legs, or even raise one leg, and you've got even harder pushups.
    Squats and lunges (done right) are just as good. Grab a few water gallon jugs around the house for added resistance.

    No gym required.

    This if you want to work out at home. A progressive resistance program is your best option, and there are several bodyweight programs that incorporate more difficult moves as you improve your strength. Look into You Are Your Own Gym and Convict Conditioning.
  • 47Jacqueline
    47Jacqueline Posts: 6,993 Member
    I believe in gym memberships. But I also know that when I began, the gym location was key. I joined one that was a block away from my apartment. Now I'll travel anywhere. It's harder to motivate yourself by yourself.

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