Weight Training - Home vs Gym?

kopmom
kopmom Posts: 491 Member
edited November 12 in Fitness and Exercise
Ok I will start out saying I know nothing about "weight training".
I am at goal weight and really want to get the best toning results I can by Memorial Day (so about 2 months). Is it possible to do this at home?

Also what would be a good plan to follow to lower body fat and tone? Is it necessary 5-6 days a week (I am also training for a half marathon). Again, looking for what will give me the best results over the next two months

For the record right now I run 3x a week and do at home dvd's (usually Jillian)

Thanks

Replies

  • FlyByJuly
    FlyByJuly Posts: 564 Member
    Bump. I'm interested in what people might suggest. Good question.
  • yesthistime
    yesthistime Posts: 2,051 Member
    Strength training groups to start you off:

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/2553-new-rules-of-lifting-for-women
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/807-strength-training
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/771-women-strength-training
  • yesthistime
    yesthistime Posts: 2,051 Member
    Half marathon training groups:

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/94-long-distance-runners
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/1788-half-marathon-training-group
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/1339-mfp-half-marathon
  • Punktorian
    Punktorian Posts: 224 Member
    If you are not weight training already you do not need a gym most likely. Body weight stuff will be plenty sufficient for someone starting out.
  • finchase
    finchase Posts: 174
    You might consider purchasing a couple of resistance bands. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to store away, and they are quite versatile for strength training. I like the ones that I bought at the sporting goods store that's name rhymes with Mick's (MFP won't let me enter the name because it thinks it's obsene). They contain a DVD that demonstrates a few exercises you can do with the bands.
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 49,026 Member
    Depends on your goals. I'd never be able to put together a home gym I want without gutting my 3 car garage out and making it a home gym. So gym for me.

    For others, having just a TRX system is enough.

    A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer
    IDEA Fitness member
    Kickboxing Certified Instructor
    Been in fitness for 28+ years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
  • ladytinkerbell99
    ladytinkerbell99 Posts: 970 Member
    bump for later
  • neverstray
    neverstray Posts: 3,845 Member
    I've been doing p90x program at home. Been through twice, have massively modified the program and am considering converting my garage into a gym. I like working out at home. I can play whatever music I want without the annoying headphones in my ears. I'm at home. I'm comfortable. I don't have to share my shower. Etc, etc.

    I have to do it on a very low budget, so I'm scouring CL ads and asking friends for stuff.
  • indrani1947
    indrani1947 Posts: 178 Member
    bump for later, gym out of the equation so have to find something for home
  • Lusadi
    Lusadi Posts: 79
    Home vs Gym...both have pros and cons..

    If you're just starting out doing weight training, there are tons of body weight only exercises that are very effective and free. Other home equipment can include a few free weights, a weight bench, resistance bands, kettle weights, medicine balls, etc. Most are very inexpensive and readily available. The internet is full of websites to provide information and exercise routines. The flip side of the home workout is making the time and avoiding the distractions, finding the motivation to do the workout after you get home. Enter the gym...

    The gym has a lot of equipment that can make weight training easier. Sometimes using a weight machine can help with getting good form (sometimes they make it worse...matter of opinion there). Most gyms have professional trainers on staff that can help you get started and set you up on a routine suited to your fitness level. Plus, it can be motivating to exercise around others and having accountability to your wallet/trainer can help get you to go. The gym removes the distractions that lurk in the house to derail fitness routines. The cons are that gym memberships can be pricey and you have to make the time to go! Also, you need to pick a gym with a supportive environment. Some gyms just don't have a favorable atmosphere for women in the weight room.

    It really comes down to preference. The great thing about weight training is that it is fun, versatile, and will eventually give you great returns in your overall body strength. Good luck!
  • adr810
    adr810 Posts: 18
    bump
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