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Original poster

Strength Training newbie

15 replies

yogakeepsmesane · 18/02/2023 08:57

As my username suggests I love my yoga and do at least 15 mins a day (often before bed as a de-stress). I also run 2/3 times a week. I can run 5k in just over 30 mins - ny 2023 goal being to do it in under 30 mins.

I'm turning 40 this year and want to be as healthy as I can be. Everything I've read suggests I need to incorporate some strength training. Do you all agree?

Am looking for some newbie advice! Weights to get? YouTube vids to follow?

TIA

OP posts:
KirstenBlest · 18/02/2023 09:13

Get some PT sessions or join a Body Pump class. Too easy to get injured doing it without a spotter.
Get adjustable dumbells.

RayKray · 18/02/2023 10:27

I'd absolutely agree but then my user name could easily be weightskeepmesane 😆. Strength training is awesome! Can you stretch to a gym membership (they can be as cheap as £30) as then you can use better stuff and have someone show you what to do. Whilst you can use dumbbells and videos at home I think a gym is much better.

KirstenBlest · 18/02/2023 12:55

With dumbbells you need to be doing the same exercises in the same way on both sides of your body, and technique matters. The big mirrors in a gym help too. The PT will show you what to do, and how to do it, and correct your technique and posture.

Whatevergetsyouthroughthenight · 18/02/2023 12:57

Another option is a kettlebells class, although I agree body pump (or ‘clone’ classes) are good.

KirstenBlest · 18/02/2023 13:33

I dated someone who used kettlebells at home. He had big muscly chest and arms but skinny legs. Yuk.

With the dumbbells, when you start you might only be able to lift the bars with no weights, but you get stronger very quickly, if you work out a couple of times a week. leavea rest day between workouts.

NorthernSpirit · 18/02/2023 13:37

I’m early 50’s. 6 months ago I stated Body Pump (resistance training) 3 x per week at my local gym.

I can’t recommend it highly enough! It’s a fabulous class. My body shape has completely changed and I feel fantastic.

Fellsidechicken · 18/02/2023 13:46

CrossFit is great. They adapt the exercises for me as a bit overweight and not very fit after a few years of ill health. They don’t stand in the front of the class and have you copy them, they spend the whole class helping everyone on their individual form. I had a couple of 1-2 sessions to help teach me the technique and as I get stronger them help me improve my technique. The hour classes fly by!

bunhead1979 · 18/02/2023 13:50

I started in january with a PT and i am only finding my confidence with proper form now- and i’m fairly body aware as you will be with years of yoga experience. I would say definitely get some PT time under your belt initially.

CappuccinoFace · 18/02/2023 13:55

If you're new to strength training, I'd probably get a personal trainer few times etc rather than go to Body pump straight on. It's too easy to hurt yourself, if you're not used to movements and in body pump it's doing them quick, not well. Also you don't have to go to gym, you can do it at home as well especially at the beginning. you can try for free (7 days I think) Alice Liveing app, it is specifically strength training for women. Good luck!

Beesbebuzzing · 18/02/2023 19:06

I agree with everyone else, I totally recommend BodyPump or Kettlebells if you're new to strength training.

Stellaris22 · 18/02/2023 21:00

Personally, I would go to a gym and see a PT. Correct form is essential.

I also find having access to the range of equipment (varying weights of dumb bells, bars and machines) great. Then you can progress rather than only using the weights you have at home.

I just go to a 24hr chain gym and it's perfect for my requirements as a dedicated strength trainer.

Paq · 18/02/2023 21:06

KirstenBlest · 18/02/2023 13:33

I dated someone who used kettlebells at home. He had big muscly chest and arms but skinny legs. Yuk.

With the dumbbells, when you start you might only be able to lift the bars with no weights, but you get stronger very quickly, if you work out a couple of times a week. leavea rest day between workouts.

That's because he skipped every leg day ever! Very common with men who let their vanity choose their exercise regime.

Paq · 18/02/2023 21:09

Don't try to start strength training without instruction. Go to a class or get a PT.

You don't need heavy weights. Increasing time under tension (TUT) is equally as effective as going up in weights. But, having said that, there is nothing as satisfying as benching your own body weight 💪😉

slamfightbrightlight · 18/02/2023 21:10

Lots of gyms have started doing lifting/intro to weightlifting classes, if you can find one near you

ImBrian · 18/02/2023 21:37

Gym and PT are your best plan but make sure you get a good one. I started at home but I’ve had lots of coaching on form and it’s much trickier then I thought it would be. My kitchens not also part gym. Weight training is amazing though, my body has changed loads and I’m so much stronger.

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