 Starting a weightlifting routine
A lot of people feel intimidated about starting a weightlifting routine. They think it is something that is only for hard-core fitness types. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, all of us lift weights, every day. We lift babies on to our hips, groceries in and out of the car and mattresses as we make the beds.
The misconception is that weightlifting has to start out looking like an Olympic event. Like everything else in life, the best way is to start small and move on from there.
Consider that your body has weight. Even if you have no weights or gym membership, you can use your own body for weight training.
For upper body and core, good old-fashioned push-ups can't be beat. Anyone can do them, practically anywhere. You can do vertical pushups against a wall, or slightly harder ones against a stable surface such as a sink counter. If you are comfortable getting on the floor, you can start doing them on your knees and progress to doing them on your toes.
To do weight training for your legs, stand tall while holding a counter or chair with one hand, and raise your outside leg to the front and to the side. For a greater challenge, don't hold on with your hand.
You can do bicep curls or triceps presses using water bottles, two liter bottles, or soup cans. You can also use them for shoulder work. Keeping your elbows slightly bent, raise the weights straight to the front or to the side.
Keep a log. When you are regularly and easily doing 8-12 repetitions in three sets, make it more challenging.
You'll soon discover how much easier those "everyday" weight lifting activities become.
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