lifting weights for beginners

[Guest guest]

, this was one of the best summaries for beginning a weight lifting program that I've ever seen. Thanks a million for putting this together for us. This would be a good one for the list files for easy access--my opinion.

I want to reiiterate the most important thing that said (my opinion again): "There really isn't one best way to lift--there are very many ways to lift weights, and each lifter has his or her preferred program."

Also, we might add that if you don't/can't belong to a gym, there are many bodyweight exercises you can begin with at home, before you even consider buying a set of weights. The basic push-up, for instance, can be done standing against a wall. When that gets too easy, do them on an incline with your hands on a piano bench. Graduate to the floor, and rest your body on your knees. And finally, do push-ups with your weight up on your toes. Still not ready to buy some dumbbells? OK, now elevate your FEET on the piano bench and do the push-ups with your hands on the FLOOR.

For legs, walking lunges are excellent. As you learn to coordinate this move, keep your body upright like a piston going up and down in a cylinder. Don't gooseneck forward as you lunge.

Any home fitness store sells a myriad of inexpensive gizmos such as rubber cords and big fitness "Swiss" balls that come with clear directions. Most of those toys are just great for beginners. I especially love what you can do with a long rubber cord. (You probably should avoid the fancy ab toner gizmos unless you try them at the store and just love it. Some of them are just dumb and many are too hard for beginners.

My 2 cents

Suz