Weight Room Intimidation

Getting started in the weight room can be scary. Actually, lifting weights in general can be scary. You start to question if you're using the right amount of weight, how to perform the exercise, and how to use a machine. I remember I would just head right to a cardio machine when I first started working out because it was the easiest to figure out. BIG MISTAKE! Weight lifting has transformed my body physically and mentally. I have a few tips that have helped ease my way into lifting and feel confident doing it. xx

1. Go in with a plan: (an example of a plan you can follow...every person is different and might need to consult a certified trainer for a specialized plan)

Monday-Legs

Tuesday-Back/biceps

Wednesday-Chest/triceps

Thursday-Leg day (or another body part you want to focus on...I just love leg day)

Friday-Shoulders,cardio,abs

Saturday-(if you are motivated to go 6 days a week switch cardio and abs to this day)

Sunday-REST/SLEEP/STRETCH/EAT YUMMY FOOD

2. Use youtube: Search: leg day workout for beginners... and so on. You will find many workout videos (make sure the person is credible) and copy what they do! Screen shot the movement and write it down on your phone notes. Remember DO NOT copy the amount of weight they use, they most likely have been working up to this weight over time. You can reference the name of the exercise to the photo. Feeling like you're doing the exercise wrong? Bring a friend, google the workout and usually it'll come up on bodybuilding.com. Watch the video and have a friend make sure you're performing it correctly.

3. Stay in one area: Feeling like the weight room is too big and you don't want to run around like a lost puppy?! Choose a "dumbbell only" workout. Choose a "cables only" workout. Choose a "smith machine only" workout. Choose a "barbell only" workout. This will help with staying in one area and getting comfortable in that familiar spot while still completing a hard workout!

4. Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask for help with how to use a machine. I used to not want to touch a machine because I thought, "what if it's not set up to how I want it?!" But after 3 years of lifting I learned to finally ask for help. I recently just asked a trainer at the gym to watch my form for hip-thrusts. She gave me great tips and now i'm feeling the exercise in places I didn't know existed!

Goodluck and don't be afraid anymore! Your body is worth it.

Follow my Instagram story to see daily tips. @ryleeschmidt