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How to get started the right way with strength training

You're all pumped up and ready to go, maybe you made a new years resolution... or you're just determined to get in shape for the summer. You're eager and that's a good thing - but hold on there. I was once like you; amped to get into the gym and start pumping iron. But you need to start slow and work your way up, trust me. And if you've already hit the gym before I caught you, like me, you're probably so sore from that first workout that you won't be able to hit the gym for WEEKS!

The truth is, I had gone too fast and just jumped in when I should have taken things slow and built my strength gradually. Now for me, everything worked out fine in the long run, but a lot of would be weight lifters get discouraged quickly because they failed to start small in their bodybuilding plans -- and they never end up getting back on track which is a shame and something I want you to avoid!

But this isn't my only concern (although I do sincerely hate to see people drop out and fail to reach their potential when they are so enthusiastic in the beginning). Injuries can easily result as a product of newly minted body builders getting too enthusiastic about those first few workout sessions and overdoing it or making dumb mistakes.

So with that in mind, I'd like to give those of you who are new to strength training a few pointers on getting started the right way. You know it REALLY can make all the difference between success and failure in weightlifting (and between getting those rock hard abs you desire or just "so-so results) so please, read on!

The first thing you want to do is help your body be prepared for the rigors of strength training -- we call this anatomical adaptation in the "nerd" circles. Before you even hit the weight room, consider starting with a routine of full body workouts to build overall strength and endurance.

When you feel ready (or simply cannot wait), try just one exercise per area of the body you want to focus strength training on and keep your number of reps low; even if you don't feel "pumped" right away don't worry. You are laying the ground work for serious bodybuilding later. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither were the weightlifting pros. Be patient.

After a few weeks, you're going to be ready for some serious lifting! Here's the best way to do it: Gradually increase the amount of weight you are lifting and add a few more reps each workout but stick with this new weight and number of reps for a few weeks before increasing. One more thing; the pros know this, but it's extra important for the beginner: You don't grow IN the gym, you grow OUT of it... so make sure to take a day off in between workout days (two days if it has been an exceptionally strenuous workout).

Remember, slow and steady is the smart way to start strength training. You'll begin building muscle before you know it, but you have to start small. And the benefit is that you'll be focusing on having good form, staying injury free, and doing things the RIGHT way... which means you can enjoy strength training for a lifetime. Have a great workout!

By: Caleb Lee

Fitness expert Caleb Lee knows a lot about building muscle. His website will teach you how to build muscle fast.

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