Reading and lifting at the same time?

[VanceMac]

I picked out my program and started lifting already, but also just started reading the substantive parts of the book. I assume this is OK, although I know I will understand the "why and wherefore" better as I read it. Is there anything I NEED to know from the text before starting the program itself?

[Lost Dog]

If you can read while your lifting, you're not working hard enough, man!

[VanceMac]

My gosh, I can't even listen while I am lifting, much less read! I love to listen to podcasts (especially the fitness ones like the Fitcast) and similar stuff while doing cardio, but when I try to do this when lifting, I end up losing count of my reps! Now, I know Cosgrove doesn't like steady-state aerobics, but one great thing is that I can listen comfortably and even watch movies on my iPod. If I switch to HIIT, then I need music.

[Cynic]

I don't really listen either, but it helps to have some diversion between rests.

[eltipo]

Hi Vance,

I think you meant you are already doing the programs and haven't read the book, right? In that case I would recommend you read the excercise descriptions for each excercise you are doing. Both the short description of the specific excercise (i.e. close-grip bench press) as well as the general descriptions of the 6 main movements (i.e. squat, deadlift, push, etc).

[VanceMac]

Right, that is what I did do, for the first workout and will do the same for the next tomorrow night before the Saturday workout B. I am reading through the rest now, and will likely have it done before Saturday as it turns out.