Strength Training for Beginners - Advice?

I have similar problem of basically not being able to get too/afford a gym membership right now.

I have been doing pull ups on the tree in the garden, close arm pushups, tricep dips using the edge of my bed, planking and various other no equipment needed type exercises.

I have to say its been super effective, and to keep things challenging I now do these things with a rucksack on with 4 milk jugs full of water in it.

I honestly don't miss the gym at all. I even beat my buddy in an arm wrestle who goes down the gym religiously 4-5 times a week and has a pretty impresive physique

Where there is will and determination, there is a way!

The only problem here is that two of the larger muscle in your body (quads and hamstrings) are not getting much, if any real work. Throw on your rucksack and start incorporating some jump squats (jump as high as you possibly can), and lunges.

For books. I usually search books on Amazon, then try to borrow it from the library (including using the inter-library loan). If you like, then buy it. There are good books like:

* Maximum Strength: Get Your Strongest Body in 16 Weeks with the Ultimate Weight-Training Program
* Body for Life: 12 Weeks to Mental and Physical Strength
* The Women's Health Big Book of Exercises: Four Weeks to a Leaner, Sexier, Healthier YOU!
* 101 Workouts for Women: Everything You Need to Get a Lean, Strong and Fit Physique
* The New Rules of Lifting for Women: Lift Like a Man, Look Like a Goddess

For DVDs:
* P90x have awesome strength training workout (cheaper than paying PT, go to eBay or craiglist)
* Bob Harper: Pure Burn Super Strength
* ... the list go on

Online:
* http://www.bodyrock.tv/ (my favorite)