Suggestions for beginners?

DianeT · 10-17-2008, 11:10 AM

I have read NROL4W already and am going to start next week after a short vacation. I was wondering if anyone has suggestions for someone for stage 1?

Previously I have done lots of cardio and several strength training videos with "barbie weights" but am pretty unfamiliar with the area of the gym where the free weights and buff guys are.

I'm definitely starting an online log too

skelleher75 · 10-17-2008, 01:04 PM

Hi! I just started the program too - yesterday was my workout 2 on stage 1. I used to be intimidated by the weight room before too, but I soon realized everyone is busy working on themselves, nobody really cares. I did have to ask for help on a squat rack and guys were happy to help. Good luck with your first workout!

iowafepusher · 10-17-2008, 01:21 PM

Congratulations!

Keep browsing through this forum and you'll find lots of helpful information from women who are doing or have done the program. I just started last week.

Even though I've been weightlifting for a year, I was surprised by how challenging even the beginning workouts are! I'll admit, I was a bit scared last week... "Can I really DO this?" Don't give up. I'm already making progress.

And if you find it too EASY, increase the weight or try a tougher variation. It shouldn't be easy. Easy gets you nowhere. I wasted hours and hours in the gym that way.

Right before your first few workouts, review the exercise instructions in the book. Make little notes in the log you'll bring with you to the gym to help you remember how to do it. It's easy to forget and to be overwhelmed when attempting a new exercise. I scribbled "feet shoulder-width apart" and "thighs parallel" in my notes about Squats.

Starting a log is a great idea. There are many friendly people here to offer input.

And prepare to be sore! Got your Icy Hot ready? ;

Best of luck to you! I'll be watching for your posts!

MissRose · 10-17-2008, 02:02 PM

You will love it! I do! I don't workout at a gym so I am not sure about that. I have my basement setup, so I am pretty lucky! Have fun!

seomanthe · 10-17-2008, 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by iowafepusher

Right before your first few workouts, review the exercise instructions in the book. Make little notes in the log you'll bring with you to the gym to help you remember how to do it. It's easy to forget and to be overwhelmed when attempting a new exercise. I scribbled "feet shoulder-width apart" and "thighs parallel" in my notes about Squats.

I actually drew little stick figures in the margins of my workout log to remind myself of the correct form, lol -- I found this really helpful since I didn't have to stop & read!

DianeT · 10-17-2008, 02:20 PM

skelleher75 - Thanks I just checked out your log, nice work!

iowafepusher - I love this place! I have been searching tons and there's so much to read! It's starting to interfere with my work

thanks for the heads up on the icy hot

MissRose - I would love to have everything in my basement that is so great for you!

seomanthe - I think I will do that, my first plan was to copy all the pages I will need that day and bring them in, but more fumbling in the gym to find stuff is definitely not going to help

skelleher75 · 10-17-2008, 03:23 PM

Diane - if you have been doing squats with 20 lbs d-bell each....the olympic bar is only 45 lbs, so you can start with just the bar. It's only 5 lbs more than what you are used to, right? It just feels more intimidating than it really is...! Good luck and look forward to seeing your training log! :-)