Hi,

I'd like advice please. I've read somewhere that it's possible to actually lose weight and tone up with doing weight training instead of cardio. I am doing cardio at the moment but I'm not toned and I don't enjoy doing it and feel like giving it up. I've never done any weight training but I do have a set of weights. Is it possible for a beginner like me to lose a few pounds and get toned up in a few weeks with hand weights? If so, what is the absolute easiest way to start for someone new to this and do I also need to continue doing some cardio? If so, how many hours of cardio do you think I need to do in addition to the weight training. I still want to look feminine although I would like to be able to wear any type of clothing that I like. I hope someone will reply.

Thanks

Hiya guestonhere; Welcome to 3FC!

You might want to swing by the 'Exercise' and 'Weight Lifting' sections in the forum; there are several conversations going on there that will help give you a bit more information to start with.

Best of luck, looking forward to seeing you around the boards!

Thanks, I appreciate you replying and for the suggestions.

I just bought "The new rules of lifting for women" although I have not started it, it is very informative and gives a lot of tips to help you get started!

hi-i can recommend a workout that i do called MINISTRY OF SOUND PUMP IT UP-its a mix of cardio n toning and im toned from following those workouts-there r a few in that series that u can buy online-good luck!:-)

Thanks, appreciate the replies. There are a lot of books on weight training for women so it's difficult to choose what to go for. How long does it take to tone up once you start lifting weights? I am 5'2" and weigh around 116 - 117 lbs. Should I am for something like 110lbs and then start weight training?

Wow, I'm also 5'2" - I'd love to be at 117!

You're well within a 'healthy range' for BMI standards. If you have any specific health concerns, talk to a doctor before starting a new workout routine. Apart from that, I can't see why you'd want to wait before starting!

Here are a few threads that might help get you started:
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/exer...-training.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/exer...exercises.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/exer...ise-myths.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/weig...move-less.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/weig...ggestions.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/weig...ng-2014-a.html
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/exer...se-advice.html

The most important thing is to take your time and LEARN THE MOVEMENTS PROPERLY; strength training is great, but working out should ideally never result in injuries. Go slow, be responsible about the weight that you try to lift, and enjoy!