Hi All -

I've started working out recently, and I'm having trouble adding strength exercises.

So far I'm just doing 40 minutes of cardio (elliptical)...

I cant really afford a personal trainer at the moment, so I'd appreciate any suggestions in terms of how to add light weights to my work out.

If you could tell me which machines and how many reps to do, or send me links or videos - I'd really appreciate it

Edited February 11, 201511 yr by berkeleycurves

I ordered resistance bands through Amazon to help with strengthen exercise. They were not that expensive and you can use them at home.

@@berkeleycurves Congrats on working out and adding resistance training (it's my favourite part!)

If you're going to the gym they should have an 'ambassador' type person who can show you how to use a machine if you're confused, as for how much weight to put on start low and build up, the number of reps and sets (i.e. 2 sets of 10 repetitions) carries between individuals and their goals 2 sets of 10 could be a good place to start if you find you're able. You want atlas the last 2-3 reps of each set to be really hard, so you're not sure you can do it (you can do it!)

For what exercises to do that's the fun part! It's important to have variety and change the exercises you do every once and a while so your muscles don't get too use to what you're doing.

For legs I'm a big fan of squats, lunges and deadlifts (all can be done without a machine and eventually with free weights). Upper body is a great opportunity to combine machines (rower, chest extensions, bench press etc) and free weight exercises (which you can often even do with household weights!).

Honestly I like to brows websites or apps with exercises and if I see something that looks interesting give it a try, if it's hard to do and you feel those muscles the next day it can be a great addition.

Enjoy the experimentation and fun that can be resistance training!

Are you a member of a gym? At mine, the weight machines have instructions right on there to tell you how to use them. Plus, because they're machines instead of free weights, you're sure to have the right form as you do it. If you're looking more for something to do at home, a set of dumb bells can be very versatile and really help you out. You can do different types of curls, lunges, and other things. Just look online.

You're doing great with your weight loss, but you'll burn even more fat by incorporating weights. Good for you!