Is this a good set of weights?
 

So I am starting the New Rules to Weight Lifting book. I have access to a gym, but would rather learn the exercises first at home. Since I am starting with virtually no equipment (I have dumbbells that go up to 10 pounds, thats it).. I am on the hunt for more a good weight set. Anyways, I found one used for $160 that includes :

Weight Set

* Long bar
* 2 Curl Bars or Z bar
* 4 Short Bars
* 1 hexagon dumbell x 10 Lbs
* 2 green dumbells x 5 & 5 Lbs
* Weigths Plastic Plates 85 pds 4x10 Lbs And 3 x 8 Lbs
* Weight Metal Plates 2x 5kg, 6x 2.5kg, 2x 5 Lbs, 2x 3Lbs, 4x 2.5Lbs, 3x 1.5Lbs


But then, I also found a different set for $75 that " Includes bench with Olympic bar, two "dumbbell" bars and assorted cast and concrete weights (approx. 265lbs total). ".

The first picture is the different bars that came with the first set (not showing the weights).. and the second picture is everything included in the cheaper set

http://imgc.classistatic.com/cps/kjc...9998k5_20.jpeg http://imgc.classistatic.com/cps/kjc...758dmm_20.jpeg

for just starting out, it's adequate at a really good price, imo.

the only thing to be aware of is at the gym, they generally have olympic bars which are longer and thicker than what you've got there - just means you'll have to readjust your technique.

I changed the post a bit when I found the second set (which is now the second picture and comes with bench and olympic bar).... Which set do you think is better? There is an $80 price difference as well.

my personal preference? i hate plastic weights. they're usually filled with cement meaning they break easy and are too often not evenly balanced.

that bench, too - it's too narrow so you'll spend a lot of time trying to keep your balance while lying on it. when dealing with weight racks, you want them wide in case one of the plates has skittered over or you've temporarily lost control. you also want lots of room for your hands so you don't risk pinching your skin between the bar and the rack when you set the weight down.

buy the first first - you can always buy plates as you need them; they're cheap enough done that way.

I'd definitely get the Olympic bar set!

Thanks for the input!

Heavier, Heavier!!! You'll outgrow this set quick. 2nd the Olympic set recommendations :).