Joining a weights gym - small group training

[BarrelOfOtters]

I've just coming to the end of a 6 week course with a small group training gym.

You do squats, then weights - free weights and kettle bells etc. They are very attentive and good at suggesting alternatives. There's 4 sessions available a week.

I'm 55, 3 stone overweight, and used to be hiking fit but not strong. Is this a good idea to continue.

I know I could go to a gym on my own, or join a circuits class - but feel that at my age this isn't a bad thing to do.

I've been doing OK - if a bit achey.

If you enjoy it then continue. Some people prefer to do their own thing in the gym while others feel more motivated in group settings.

I've just joined something very similar and have been going diligently for the last 6 weeks. I have to say, I've found that it's an exercise that suits me well - I book into time slots so have committed to those in advance while I'm feeling motivated so won't let people down, there are a few others there so we can have a chat (but not too many that it's intimidating) and most importantly I am seeing results. If I went to a gym I a) wouldn't go and b) would feel v self conscious when there so would stick to the most basic equipment (treadmill) and avoid the good stuff (weights).

For me it has the added bonus of getting me out of the house for a defined purpose (I wfh) which is beneficial in many other mental health ways too. I suddenly feel like I have a life again where I need to 'go to places' and 'do things'.

For a lifelong hater of exercise, this has been the only thing I've enjoyed and can see myself sticking to. Trust me to find the most expensive way of exercising EVER. But for now I can afford it and it's worth it for the reasons above so I'll carry on.

What are you enjoying most @BarrelOfOtters?

@texy I’ve joined for 5 months. I’m feeling stronger. I still feel a bit of an imposter. But getting to know people as the same people are popping up.

but it’s 15£ a session unless I pluck up courage to do the high intensity classes to go go 5 times a week rather than 3.

im going and sticking to it….which is the main thing.

thtere a who,e side of it to do with nutrition that I haven’t got my head round….but just trying to up protein and stop snacking.

I started doing something similar about 3 months ago. I love it!!! Have no plans to stop. I'm 52 and could loose a couple of stone.

I think this sounds excellent and that is a decent price. Strength training is brilliant for women as we get older and learning to do it properly and safely is very important.

I'm 56 and been strength training for 5/6 years in different formats, classes, PT etc. If you are being safely pushed, and learning how to train effectively and safely, then that's really good.

I run a bit as well and do some HIT or boxing or whatever but actually the main health boxes according to NHS guidance and everything else I have read would be ticked by strength training and brisk walking.

I joined a similar class start May. I love the format as it's both structured but flexible. Never lifted before and thought myself 'weak'. Lifted 67.5kg this week in the deadlift, basically my own body weight. Loving it and feel so much sturdier in my own body. Keep it up!