Weight training can be an exciting and beneficial way to kickstart your weight loss, or even get past that frustrating plateau. Getting started as a first-timer however can be a little daunting, especially when trying to navigate equipment or routines. The best place to start is always with a little education before you dive into weight training. Finding the right routine for weight loss as a first-timer is critical to success and sticking to your plans. If you’re starting a weight training routine for the first time, here is a simple guide to help get you started.
Equipment
Weight training is all about resistance and loading up your muscle groups to help build that muscle mass. The best place to start as a first-timer is understanding the different equipment you can use. One of the most common and beneficial pieces of equipment for weight training is weight plates. Used on most machines in the gym, knowing the variations in size and weight available is crucial to starting a weights training program. Generally speaking, the larger the plate, the heavier the weight, so be sure to start light and focus on form first. Weight training is about how much you lift, it’s about form, focus and progression.
The other equipment you’ll want to learn about is cable vs free moving machines. Cable machines utilize cables to help provide a small amount of momentum and assistance. For first-time weight training, cable machines are a great place to start, as they can help you get comfortable with the machines and training with weights.
Why weights instead of cardio?
Weight training is often associated with gaining muscle and actually trying to get bigger instead of smaller. A common misconception is that cardio is better for weight loss than weight training. This isn’t necessarily correct, the answer is much more about a combination of both. Cardio exercises are great to get your heart rate up, but if you are outside the optimal fat-burning one for your body, you can actually burn muscle as well as fat.
Weight training adds a great dimension to create a really well-rounded routine, the opportunity to build lean muscle mass. Lean muscle mass is the layer of muscle that helps burn fat, in fact, it burns fat twice as fast as cardio can. If you are on a weight loss journey, learn where your optimal heart rate zone is for fat loss, so you can target your cardio. Then add some weight training in and watch the kilograms start to fall away as you get closer to your goals.
Find the right help
Weight training can be very complex if you allow yourself to get overwhelmed with the multitude of approaches available. Instead, find the source of information that works best for you. That might be an online resource which allows you to fill out your goals, current circumstances and then offers a program to follow. You might even find a fitness app keeps you accountable to your goals.
Alternatively, personal training might be a better option for you, especially if you prefer a personal touch. Personal trainers can be a great resource to help understand your personal circumstances around injury, capability and goals, they can also answer any questions you may have. Whatever the better option is for you, be sure to find the right help you need before getting started as a first-timer. One key aspect often overlooked when embarking on a weight loss journey is how to avoid loose skin after weight loss. Incorporating weight training into your routine can be a game-changer in this regard. Not only does it aid in weight loss and help push past plateaus, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining skin elasticity. As you build muscle, your skin can tighten around these new contours, reducing the chances of loose skin. Starting with the right approach to weight training is essential, ensuring you build muscle effectively while losing fat. This not only enhances your physique but also supports healthy skin throughout your weight loss journey.
Weight training can be the perfect complement to your weight loss goals, especially if you hit a bit of a brick wall in your progress. Adding variety, a new challenge and the opportunity to build lean muscle mass makes weight training the perfect aid in weight loss journeys. As a first-timer, it can be daunting, so if you’re starting your journey and need a little help, then consider these simple tips.