AIBU to find planning a new gym habit so complicated?

[WallyWallyWally]

I am completely new to gym-going. In fact I haven't really done any regular exercise for years. I'm 47, and for various reasons (not least the fact that I can't keep up with my children during the holidays any more!) I want to get fitter and healthier. I don't have a lot of money to spare but I can get a reduced membership at a very convenient gym for afternoons only (I work PT so can manage this 3-4 afternoons per week). It's a Les Mills gym. One of these will be an hour-long yoga class. In the other 2/3 I'd like to do cardio and strength training. I can just about get my head round the former (the bike / elliptical trainer / stairmaster should have an easy / beginner programme, right?) but I am absolutely bamboozled by the latter! I have been searching for "beginner gym strength routines" etc online but they all look really complicated and it's starting to put me off the whole idea.

Can anyone propose a simple, beginners weight training routine? Like really basic and easy to follow, starting from scratch. I need something that I feel able to do to get me started - and can always develop as time passes. Something that's as basic as "Pick up weight A. Lift it up 12 times. Rest. Lift it up 12 more times. Stop."

Also, do you take a notebook or something to record what you are doing?

I guess I want an all-over workout. I do have a dodgy back (bulging discs) so need to be careful with that.

Help me get fitter! (and hopefully entice some other reluctant exercisers to try out a gym).

Les Mills do bodypump which is a weights based strength training class.
Basically you only need to count to four! (But lots of times!)
Each track (song) focuses on a certain body area (except warm up) eg squats, biceps, back... all in the same order as well.
During the class the instructor tells you what to do but the music also gives you clues and hints.
It is brilliant for all over strength and fitness BUT ideally done at least twice per week. You won't bulk up, just tone up.
Hope you enjoy it and get results!

I also have a dodgy back - I do Pilates, would really recommend it as it strengthens your core muscle to support your back. I don't do weights, but if you want to, I'd suggest possibly having a session with a physio first as they will be able to give you advice on how to weight train without putting your back at risk.

If you can afford it, even just as a one off, get a personal training session. If you're just getting your head around basic cardio you will really need someone to show you basic weight lifting techniques to avoid an injury. It will save you so much in the long run! I had to do this as I couldnt get my head round keeping my back straight for deadlifts and its like riding a bike, once you know how to it never goes.

I used to go to classes quite frequently and kept getting a bad back but it actually blows my mind the amount of gym classes I've been to and seeing people incapable of squatting/deadlifting etc and the person running the class doesn't correct their form or try and help in any way!