OK, so you`re convinced, converted, completely sold: you want to get into -or back into- weight training. You know that hoisting hunks of iron will rev up your metabolism and give you that firm, toned body you pictured when making your New Year resolutions. But you probably wondering where to begin in the gym. Which exercises should you tackle? How many reps and sets should you do? And how much weight should you lift?
Both strength-training newcomers and veterants may be surprised by the answers. Oh, no one has redesigned the barbell or suggested lifting weights standing on your head. But conventional wisdom has evolved. These days, experts say, we need train more like guys, which means lifting heavier weights and emphasizing free weights over machine. “women are afraind to train like a man” says Bill Ebben, M.S., M.S.S.W., C.S.C.S., head strenght and conditioning coach at Marquette University, Milwaukee.
“There is a fear of becoming massive”. In reality, there is no need to worry about turning into Arnold Schwarzenegger. But women still do. That`s why, Ebben says, they shy away from all-out effort. “Most women are able to lift a lot more than they do”. They also don`t do more challenging exercises using free weights “partly due to lack of experience and familiarity”. According to Ebben, free-weight exercises help you better develop coordination and practical strength for everyday life. (Shape Mag, 1999)
To be continue….