Just starting at the gym....no idea where to begin

[crisa83]

Ok, so I am going on vacation in September so that was the push I needed to finally start working out regularly. On Monday I went to a local gym and did some cardio and then worked on a few machines, but nothing crazy....I just wanted to basically test everything out and get a feel for the place. I am going back there today to join but I am so confused when it comes to getting a routine down. I don't want to waste my time or money...I need it to be effective.

I am 26 years old, 5'3" and 133lbs. (female) I would like to lose weight and tone up my whole body. I am shooting for 115 to 120 lbs.

My boyfriend goes to the same gym and he's been going consistently for a year and he's really built. We have to go at different times though, so he's not there with me to help out.

I guess my questions are: should i target a specific area and work that on one day, like say work my legs one day, arms the next, etc. Or can I do a full workout each time I go to the gym? Also, can I expect to see results without lifting any weights, and just using the machines? I am sorry but all the weights are down in a seperate section and it is where all the guys always are and that's too intimidating for me..... for now anyway. And would Monday - Friday be too much for a beginner? I don't want to kill myself over here, but I am eager to get started and I really want to get into it so I can start feeling better about myself.

Sorry if I rambled, I just got home from an overnight shift at work and I am in need of sleep. Thanks for any help.

 

[aevans410]

The answer to your questions really depends on your schedule, your overall goals, and your commitment.

First of all, machines are not as effective as free weights, but if you are intimidated (which is understandable, too much testosterone) then by all means use the machines. Resistance is beneficial, just some types are more beneficial than others. If you can use free weights, do it.

If you are short on time, I would recommend a full body training routine first, work chest, shoulders, triceps, biceps, lats, and legs. If you can split into a upper body/lower body routine on separate days, thats ok too. I would recommend the minimum you weight train is 2 days a week. If you do the whole body routine, try 3 days a week, 4 days if you do the split. Try to rest 48 hours between working the same muscle group again.

For cardio, I recommend at least 20 minutes of cardio that gets your heart rate up in the 135-145 range. You can do cardio 4-5 days a week.