Um ... dumb question on weight lifting

  • As I mentioned, I bought a Bowflex Extreme machine. After building a workout room, we finally got the thing assembled. I have been doing cardio now for several months, but I've never lifted weights before. So I am just learning about it and what weight to use and how to use the machine.

    Tonight was what I would consider my 2nd serious workout. I am typically doing 3 sets of 10 reps. I was working arms, back and chests. Most times, by the end of the third set, I could barely make it - which I know is what you aim for.

    But I noticed this - I didn't sweat at all.... Does this mean I'm not pushing myself enough? I am so used to finishing my cardio all sweaty and shaky. While the muscles I worked feel, well, worked - I wonder if I didn't get a "real" workout. Any thoughts?
  • It is a good question, I sweat buckets doing cardio but barely with weights.
  • It depends. How long are your rests between each set? I can sweat a lot when I do weight lifting. Also, you could look at doing super sets. And no sweat doesn't mean you aren't getting a good workout.
  • I rarely sweat when I weight train, the only time I sweat is when I do circuit training or I'm in a rush or lift extremely heavy... but it doesn't mean you haven't had a good workout...
  • Yeah, it really depends. I don't tend to sweat when lifting either, or at least not much. That's why I like to do a little cardio first, even though that's against the general recommendation. I like to sweat and I like to get my heart rate up! LOL! But it doesn't affect your lifting. For me, it just feels good. I find that a higher heart rate is what gets me that sought-after endorphin rush. Otherwise I'm just sore. (Kidding, by the way. You don't have to always be sore either)