Gym routines

[fairlyaverage]

I have just joined a gym for the first time. It is the Gym group; a cheap, 24 hour non contract no frills gym. I had an induction last week. I was shown how to use the machines but the staff member seemed reluctant to advise on suggested routines. It was more about how to use the equipment. I'm a moderately fit middle aged woman. Are there any recommended websites for gym routines? Or does anyone have any advice? Not keen on trying a personal trainer for various reasons.

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Got to be honest, I only managed to get a decent routine going after starting with a personal trainer. I focus on weights and would never have learned the form and technique without him. I do circuits based on what he shows me and enjoy it far more than I ever enjoyed just using the machines.

I am also with a budget gym. What I have done in the past is ask for help using the equipment for the first time and In picked up hints and tips from the trainer. I have also scrolled through You-tube for gym related videos and picked up some tips there too.
What I have done this month is requested a personal trainer to come up with a exercise plan. This does cost extra but the trainer will go around the gym for the 1st time and then let you get on with it yourself. I am doing this for extra motivation and also there is pieces of equipment that I am unsure about.
After trying this for a few months I will ask the trainer for personal training sessions, but i have stipulated what I don't want. The trainer was more than willing to accommodate my needs.

What sort of things are you interested in?

I think everyone would benefit from learning to do the freeweight basics. Some things you can learn from pictures or YouTube videos, but the main compound lifts (squats, deadlifts, etc) are probably best if they're learned from someone who knows how.

It only takes a few sessions to do. However, many trainers want you to be long-term clients and you have to tell them that you want to be taught so that you can be independent.

If you master the basics, then you pick things up from reading online or books.

You may want to check out some of the most popular books, like New Rules of Lifting, Strong Curves, or Thinner, Leaner, Stronger.

Thanks everyone for your advice.

Justgettingstarted my main exercise has been yoga and a little Pilates. I have done many classes, apps etc so I'm confident in putting a yoga routine together. But I'm not sure what order to do stuff in the gym and how much of each thing. I am particularly looking to fill in gaps not met by yoga. So cardio, abs and strength (weights).

Also my husband joined a local authority type gym in the past and he was given a card with a suggested routine with number of reps. That sort of thing would have been nice just to get started. But I will check out the suggestions here. As well as the fitnessblender site which someone mentioned on another thread.