Don't worry about sound "stupid" as you put it. You were never taught this stuff, so you shouldn't be expected to know it. Pick something that you are really good at. I will probably sound like a dummy regarding that subject matter. We can't be experts in everything!
You are right with your definition regarding sets and reps.
There really isn't a science to apply to your particular situation. In general, I say the heavier the better. Heavy weight lifted dictates a lower rep range, right? I mean, the more you lift, the less times you can move it up and down. And vice versa.
I suggest heavy training b/c it does the right things, biochemically speaking, in terms of muscle maintenance. There are other reasons too.
However, in your particular situation, I think I would start with higher reps. It all really depends on your strength levels.
However, if you are able 2 sets of 15-20 reps would probably do just fine for starters. Every 2 weeks you can up the intensity and/or volume.
You can try something like this:
Weeks 1&2 - 2 sets of 15-20 reps
Weeks 3&4 - 3 sets of 15-20 reps
Weeks 5&6 - 3 sets of 10-12 reps (this time adding weight to most exercises)
Weeks 7&8 - 3 sets of 6-10 reps (this time adding more weight than previous 2 weeks)
Something like that would work just fine for starters.
You are right with your definition regarding sets and reps.
There really isn't a science to apply to your particular situation. In general, I say the heavier the better. Heavy weight lifted dictates a lower rep range, right? I mean, the more you lift, the less times you can move it up and down. And vice versa.
I suggest heavy training b/c it does the right things, biochemically speaking, in terms of muscle maintenance. There are other reasons too.
However, in your particular situation, I think I would start with higher reps. It all really depends on your strength levels.
However, if you are able 2 sets of 15-20 reps would probably do just fine for starters. Every 2 weeks you can up the intensity and/or volume.
You can try something like this:
Weeks 1&2 - 2 sets of 15-20 reps
Weeks 3&4 - 3 sets of 15-20 reps
Weeks 5&6 - 3 sets of 10-12 reps (this time adding weight to most exercises)
Weeks 7&8 - 3 sets of 6-10 reps (this time adding more weight than previous 2 weeks)
Something like that would work just fine for starters.