s/o Strength training.

Kasa

Hoektastic's commet in Tiger's post prompted me to post this.

I want to add strength training to my work out routine.  I have some hand weights that I bought years ago and as soon as I find them (as you can tell, they've never gotten much use), I would like to start using them.

This probably sounds stupid, but I have no idea what to do though.  What exercises do I do?  How many reps?  How long do you rest between reps?  I'm clueless.

Are there any good web sites out there about this?  My searches haven't found a lot of good results.  Links with pictures would be helpful because I'm that clueless. 

Thanks!

gvsubride05

I just took an awesome arms class at the Kroc Center. She is expanding her class to be an hour long and cover all areas. It might be a good class to take. She kicks your butt!

It is going to be on Weds at 5:30.  I was thinking about signing up for it, as that is going to be my day off. however, we will most likely use those nights for Family Date nights and do our picnics and outings that night. I'm debating about just signing up for it and going when  I can go.

 Check out their schedule, they have a few classes that might fit your need.

Otherwise I would suggest a workout video.

Hoektastic

I have never read it, but there is a lot of talk on the H&F board about the book New Rules of Lifting for Women or something like that. That might be a good place to get a well-rounded overview of what you should do.  Can anyone give us more info on this?

For me - I go to 3 strength training classes a week. Monday is full body, Wednesday is a Butts and Guts class and Saturday is back to full body. I can't believe the difference it has made in my body.Love it. I can give you more info if you are interested.

If I remember correctly, Sparkpeople will give workout outlines when you sign up (its free.) I think they have pictures and videos for most so you can learn form.

Though I am no expert, I had always heard you should work back and biceps together. Triceps and chest together. And that strength training should come before cardio in your workout routine to get the most of your total workout. But of course that depends on your goals.

Kasa

Thanks!  I'm not up for another class.  I go to a yoga class once a week, and I'm not willing/able to add another.  I'm looking for something to do at home.  I'll check out Sparkpeople and look at the book Hoektastic mentioned.

Diana Prince

I highly recommend the New Rules of Lifting for Women. I've done that program, but will say that a lot of the moves require a gym. I think it might have mods for at home workouts. You might be able to find the book at the library. I also really like Body for Life, but those moves are more typical "bodybuilding" isolation moves. You can find out more about Body for Life at their website, www.bodyforlife.com. Or my defunct blog (bodyforlifedevotee.blogspot.com). If you're interested, you'll want to take a look at the book as well.

Kasa

Thanks, Diana! 

I signed up for Sparkpeople and they have exactly what I was looking for as far as suggested exercises and demonstrations.  If I decide to get more serious about this, I'll check out the book.