Lifting

I started simple - I want stronger arms. Standing bicep curls. 4 sets of 8-10 reps were the last rep takes some effort. Then I do triceps extensions with the rope on a machine. same deal. Then I go to seated incline curls - and lighter weight and do 15 or so; being seated helps keep me from cheating.

Are you part of a gym? It's absolutely okay to ask other folks there...or the staff.

You can download the stronglifts 5x5 app, which is often recommended as a good place to start, and it will guide you through amount of weight and reps to do in each exercise which takes the work out of it for you.
Not sure how little they have when you say the weights aren't extensive but pretty much all you need for the program is a barbell, weights, bench and squat rack, if they don't have at least these things it might be time to find another gym.

Honestly, if you ask the staff at the gym or other people (let them finish their set), for advice, I found that most people are willing to help. People are a lot nicer at gyms than one might think. I was doing a particular lift wrong, and a very large, intimidating man came walking over to me. In the nicest voice he told me I was doing it wrong, and then helped me start doing it right.

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/1308750/so-you-want-to-start-lifting-great/p1

I just posted a couple of links I've found helpful. I'm just dipping my toe in as well, but have found helpful info at bodybuilding.com. There are lots of gifs and videos by trainers demonstrating proper form. I also want to read the books @RoseTheWarrior recommended. I've heard they are great places to start.

JPBgrad98 wrote: »

Honestly, if you ask the staff at the gym or other people (let them finish their set), for advice, I found that most people are willing to help. People are a lot nicer at gyms than one might think. I was doing a particular lift wrong, and a very large, intimidating man came walking over to me. In the nicest voice he told me I was doing it wrong, and then helped me start doing it right.

I know that sounds helpful, and it can be and perhaps it depends on the location, but I find that absolutely everyone assumes themselves to be a fitness pro and gives advice unsolicited. They always come up to me and say, "I'm a professional fitness trainer, let me show you how to do that". These days, "everyone" is a fitness trainer, and they all give very different advise. Plus, coming up to people and telling them how to do something better likely makes (some) people feel uncomfortable - confirming that they are indeed being watched and judged - the very reason (some) people avoid gyms in the first place.