Hi Michelle and WELCOME!!!
Feel free to ask anything here!
It is pretty much a myth that you shouldn't eat before bed but it is really a myth on BFL. BFL meals are small and balanced and the last one is necessary for a great workout in the morning.
As far as the exercises, check out the following links:
http://www.gymamerica.com/gti/exerc...ted_demo_index/
http://www.planetkc.com/exrx/Lists/Directory.html
or get a book by Joyce Vedral for beginning body builders.
You might want to do 3 things:
1) Ask the gym staff to get you acquainted with the equipment. Not all of your exercises will be on dumbbells/barbells. Find out what kind of machines they have and how to work them. Ask a trainer to show you how to adjust seat height and move the weight stack.
2) Get a cheap set of dumbbells to practice with at home. This is not for exercising but more for form. For barbell exercises you can use a broomstick. Do it in front of a mirror (preferably full length) using the websites or a book and watch your form. If you take a routine out of a magazine (Oxygen and Muscle and Fitness for Her are very good) pay attention to their DON'Ts section. These are usually the most common mistakes beginners make.
Just watch what you are doing, refer to the book or website and practice FORM FORM FORM
3) BE okay with the fact that you are learning and study each exercise and then try it. You will find you react differently to different ones. Go slow, watch your form and build that confidence!!!
Weight training is simple but the discipline needed to do a routine with proper form takes a while. Don't rush. Proper form is the most important.
Have I mentioned form?
Anyway, Ask away! That's what we're here for! WELCOME!!!
Susan