Hi!

I'm a regular cardio exerciser, but I know that it would be a good idea to try to incorporate some more weight/strength training in my workouts. I thrive on being told what to do during workouts (I love exercise classes for that reason). Are there any books that would be good for someone who wants to ease into the weight training world? I've heard about NROLW, but I'm afraid that I won't be able to handle that and I'll end up quitting in frustration.

Right now, hiring a personal trainer isn't really in my budget, but I feel like a couple of good exercise books might be a good investment.

Thanks for any advice or ideas!

not sure of any books off the top of my head but something like muslce and fitness usually has a work out program in that should get you going and it'll be a lot cheaper

Why don't you think you'd be able to handle NROLW? You really pick the weight you are comfortable with and a beginner can use the program. I highly highly recommend it.

You could also look at Body for Life as it also has a program but its not as structured and progressive as NROLW.

Making the Cut by Jillian Michaels...it has a workout plan, how to's and it's all about getting the last few pounds off..

I like - The Abs Diet - It has a smart healthy diet plan and a focus on exercise. Its the bright orange book you can't miss it.

This might sound really stupid, but I'm afraid of trying to use any of the real weightlifting equipment, like barbells and stuff. Right now, when I do decide to do weights, I go to the free weight section of my gym that is mostly inhabited by other women.

How in detail are the instruction in NROLW? Like if I have no idea how to use some of the equipment, will it give me good step by step instructions? Does it have pictures of good form?

I hope my questions make sense!

Madelinein,

It gives a lot of good instruction for each exercise. Also, its basically free weights and if you wanted to, you could use dumbbells exclusively although it does have some pulley exercises (lat pull down, rows).

Also, to get over your fear of barbells. Start at home with a broomstick or something just to get the feel. Then use a barbell with NO weight. Barbells and dumbbells are your friends I know it can be intimidating to go over to the section with free weights with a lot of guys but I'll let you in on a little secret... half of them don't know what they are doing but they just don't realize it. They are probably more prone to injury than you are due to their overconfidence.

One thing you could also do is pay for 1 session with a personal trainer. Really tell him (or her) your goals, what you are looking to do and tell him you want some pointers on form.