This is day 36 of our 6 week journey to weight loss. Last week we focused on not allowing ourselves to get inundated with the abundance of health information available. Recommendations focused on research that indicates will power gains from healthy living practices increase confidence I. Q. And in turn more naturally increase inclinations for more specific training and healthy living data without feeling overwhelmed.
By now, you may be ready to receive more detailed information such as best cardiovascular exercises for maximum weight loss, top foods for stabilizing blood sugar for enhanced weight reduction, and most effective strength training principles for continued weight loss and weight maintenance.
If you are ready, we begin today with strength training principles for the novice. If you need more time, continue focusing on the 5 mind connections and you can refer back to this article later when you feel compelled to initiate more specific details. There is no hurry. Work at your own pace, but focus on what really matters by reviewing parts 1-4 of The Road to Weight Loss. Continue to eat less. Know that simple is good and do not get distracted by thinking elaborate weight loss plans are more effective.
It’s never too late
It’s never too late to gain strength. Our bones and muscles have an innate capacity to respond to stimuli by growing in size, density and strength. Studies show that stronger muscles not only burn more calories while engaging in actual strength exercise, but they have the increased capacity to burn more energy even as we rest. Here’s how to smartly begin.
Learn proper technique and keep weight low
In the beginning stages of a weight training routine, take 3-4 weeks to learn proper technique while keeping the weights light. Think of this process as setting the stage for smart progressive gains in strength, muscle tone, and muscle density. Skipping these two factors, proper technique and light weight, in the initial stage increases injury occurrence which is the number one reason people stop training. Don’t let this be you. Keep the weight light enough that you can practice good form without any struggle. The temptation to increase the weight amount will be looming, but realize it is the tendons and ligaments of the body that really need sensible conditioning in these opening weeks even if your muscles are saying “give me more.” Be patient. Be Smart.
To hire a trainer or not?
If there was ever a time to hire a trainer it’s in the opening weeks of a weight training routine. A personal trainer will show you what machines/fee weights to use, how to set them up, and what weight to start with. A top notch trainer trained in motivational interviewing can help you in the opening weeks to make sense of a routine suitable for you. It will involve questions about your lifestyle, how much time you can commit to exercise, what type of job you have, past injuries, health status, motivation levels, reasons for initiating a strength program, and other pertinent information that is helpful in planning an individualized strategy. A good trainer is well worth the money as making sense of the implementation of a strength routine is paramount when considering that most people do not continue a strengthening program for longer than a few weeks.
Going It Alone?
If you need to begin a strength program on your own, most gyms have attendants that can show you how to use the machines. There should be no cost for them to show you how to set up each machine. If you never strength trained before, and you will be training on your own, have the gym’s attendant show you how to set each piece of equipment or see the tips below for various starter exercises.
Tips on form
Leg press
Press through the heels and keep head back. Back should feel firm against the seat as you press the weight. Do not lock out the knees.
Latissimus dorsi pull down
Keep chest upright throughout and lean back slightly as you pull bar in front of upper chest. Do not pull behind the neck.
Seated chest press machine
Keep head back. Firmly plant feet with knees over the ankles. Engage chest muscles to press.
Seated shoulder press with dumbbells
Keep back supported on upright bench. With palms facing in, press bar -bells up and slightly forward of the head. You may advance to standing position, but keep stomach stabilized. Be extra cautious with overhead shoulder presses as this is one exercise that injury occurs more often since the shoulder joint is highly mobile.
Standing bicep curl against wall
Keep knees slightly bent and stand against a wall for support. With barbells in each hand curl arm upwards through a full range of motion. Progress to unsupported.
Repetitions and sets
Practice 15 repetitions of each exercise in the order as described above. Repeat cycle one more time completing 2 sets. Practice slowly and deliberately and use a light enough weight that 15 repetitions are not a strain.
How often
Practice this routine 2-4 times a week for the first three weeks preferably having a day or two off in between. Increase the weights by no more than 15% each week. Remember, your goal in the opening weeks is to practice good form and allow your tendons and ligaments to get adjusted to the increased workload to come.
When you leave the gym you should feel like you could easily have continued exercising more. Don’t be tempted to increase your weights, repetitions or sets. This is a mistake that will ultimately increase the likelihood that you will dread going to the gym your next session. We are not just training our bodies, but we are also training our minds. It’s a process of adjustment. By honoring the process, you’ll increase the likelihood of making strength training a lifelong habit that not only accelerates your metabolism, but gives you the freedom to continue to do what you want to do!
Our Wealth is in Our Health,
Kim