gym help

AnvilHead wrote: »

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10332083/which-lifting-program-is-the-best-for-you/p1

Lifting programs are great to help you retain muscle. I'd also add something for even better cardio health/Fitness - pick something you enjoy that gets you moving more, and your heart rate up!

It's a good idea to try out different things and see what you enjoy. The best programme is one that you'll stick with, and if you hate it you're much less likely to do it! If your gym offers fitness classes, you could try out a couple and see if you like them. You could also try out local sports clubs and activities - these may feel less like "exercise" and can also be a great way to meet new people and develop new interests.

I'd also recommend taking things slow to start with if you're new to exercise. No point going too hard/too long/too heavy at the start and risking an injury! For cardio, don't be afraid to start out just walking (you could do this on the treadmill at your gym, or outside if the weather's nice and you have nice scenery where you live). You can work up to jogging/running in time, no need to rush. You don't need to go to the gym every day - work out what's sustainable for you and what fits into your lifestyle and schedule. The best advice (on diet and exercise) that I've ever been given is "find out what works for you" - because it's much easier to stick to something that doesn't conflict with your likes, goals and everyday life. Good luck!

Often times gyms will offer personal training either free or cheap. Depending on where you live, there are probably personal trainers in the area that you could work with just a few times to get started. They can provide you with a few routines and ensure you’re doing the excercise safely and in a way to maximize results.

When I started, I simply told myself to go to the gym and walk 30 minutes at whatever speed I felt comfortable at.

Setting myself up for doing 'something' that wasn't intimidating and overwhelming kept me motivated to get to the gym. That was 99% of the battle for me.

30 minutes usually turns into 60 minutes for me if it's a simple gym day, walking led to interval training, which led to jogging, which led to weightlifting, which led to kickboxing.

Still, every day I tell myself 'at least 30 minutes'. Even if you are in the worst mood possible and don't feel like doing anything, I guarantee once you start moving and making it a habit, you'll enjoy it and feel better.

Mike4739 wrote: »

the biggest question is what is a good workout routine at the gym and what equipment should I be using there along with how much should I be using them?

Like with buying food at the supermarket, there are countless options, and your goals and preferences determine what to do. But for general fitness, the typical plan includes cardio & strength training, and possibly flexibility too. If your job is mostly sitting, I would do some cardio daily or almost daily to compensate. The type of cardio isn't that important, and it doesn't need to be at a gym - you can climb stairs at work. Whatever you do, start small and increase gradually each workout.
For strength training, a good health-oriented program is New Rules of Lifting for Life. Or hire a good trainer - but realize that most trainers are underqualified (regardless of their physique).
Oh and if you have health issues, get your Dr's approval before exercising.