what to do?

TrainerLynn recommended that I incorporate more strength training in my workout routines. But there's so much info out there that I'm so confused I end up spending my entire workout time sitting infront of the computer trying to figure out what the heck I'm supposed to be doing! Unfortunately, I don't have the $$ for a trainer, and the gym is way too far away. I can afford some small equipment (I already have 5lbs. dumbells, & small size fitness ball).
I am Female / age 28 / 5' / 100lbs. / petite
I need to loose about 5-10 lbs. & add ALOT of muscle (I currently have about zero muscle:( ).
I have alotted 1 hour a day Tues.-Thur., Sat., & Sun. for my workouts. I do cardio on Tues & Thurs, and would like to do the strength training on the other 3 days.
I need to know exactly what exercises to do and how many.The most detailed website I've found so far is but the workouts are for full body, and I thought you were only supposed to work on one muscle group a day. Any advice regarding this issue would be greatly appreciated.
 
You are falling into a trap so many others before you have. People constantly think and research about what they want/need to do, yet never take action. Most of the time, taking action is a heck of a lot better than sitting on your arse staring at some computer.

Realize that there is no "cookie-cutter" approach to training where one way is right and the other is wrong. So don't be afraid to get out there and get your bootie moving!

First thing I would suggest if you are going to train from home, is to get some heavier weights. Five lb. dumbbells are not going to cut it.

I believe TrainerLynn works out from her home and she has established a great physique for herself. You can do the same from home, so rid your mind of the idea that you are short changing yourself by not working out in a gym.

Full body workouts are fine, and in my mind, actually ideal for the beginner. I like to recommend full-body workouts for 3 days per week. Each day, change the exercise for each body part.

I hate only discussing weight training, so I hope you also have your cardio in check, and more importantly, your nutrition!

I am sure you are looking for a lot more detail than this, but I am short changed on time..... I am sure someone can elaborate or I will be back in a bit!

Take care.
 
lol...um I hope you don't think that site is better than mine! I actually provide free exercise logs and exercise pics and all sorts of stuff. Oi.

I really like stroutman81's reply. It rocks. I'd also do a full body routine for beginners and I'd stick with 3 sets of 12 reps for each muscle. On days I strength train, I'd only do a 10 minute cardio session afterwards.

Days I don't strength train, I'd do a medium intensity cardio session for 40 minutes or so.

As you progress in your fitness level, I'd add in HIIT. But I wouldn't do that now since you're just starting out.

I'd focus on form for all of your exercises first. Then once you have form down, I would focus on lifting heavier weights.

stroutman81 made an excellent point... don't get caught up in the research. Just do it. Get all the free stuff from my site and begin. Remember to build muscle you have to eat enough :)
 
Oh gosh, I didn't mean it like that. I have nothing but praise and gratitude for you TrainerLynn :) . I've read dozens of your posts, and your website too, and find your info and advice to be invaluable. Plus I think it's commendable that you log onto this forum, from the looks of it everyday, and answer everyone's questions. The only reason I put that website in my post above was because it had info about how many sets and reps to do. I think what I'll do is:
3 days - full body strength training (3 sets of 12) + 10 min. cardio
2-3 days - 40 min. cardio
(on alternating days of course)
and I'll continue with 1800 calories a day.
I think I'll throw in some extra ab toning as well.

I know this is the toning section but if anyone has some advice for some good cardio exercises I'd appreciate that as well. I've been doing the same 3 video's for a few weeks now, and tennis when I can find someone to play with.
Thanks.:D
 
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