For many who wish to improve their health and physique, starting strength training can seem daunting. The world of weights and workouts is vast, but entering it doesn’t have to be intimidating. This blog post aims to demystify the process, offering five beginner-friendly tips to help you take the first, confident steps towards an effective strength training routine.
Understand Your Why
Before picking up your first dumbbell, it’s important to be clear on why you want to start strength training. Are you looking to improve your overall health, enhance your physical appearance, boost your strength for daily tasks, or perhaps prepare for a sporting event? Knowing your motivation will not only guide your training focus but also keep you driven on days when the gym is the last place you want to be.
So…. why are you wanting to start strength training?
Start with Professional Guidance
One of the best investments you can make in your fitness journey is to engage in coached training sessions. A coach will not only teach you proper form, which is crucial for avoiding injuries and maximising the effectiveness of each workout, but they’ll also provide a structured plan tailored to your goals and current fitness level. This personalised approach helps ensure that you start on the right foot, with clear direction and safe practices. I don’t know anyone who’s ended up at their goal who hasn’t had a coach along the way.
Learn the Basics
Strength training is built on several key movements: squats, deadlifts, presses, and pulls. Familiarising yourself with these basic exercises provides a foundation for almost all routines. Start with bodyweight exercises or light weights to get a feel for the movements. Focus on form rather than lifting heavy; quality trumps quantity every time when it comes to starting out. But, just so you have seen these big movements, I’ve linked them in here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmZAiBqPvZw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZXobu7JvvE&t=1s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXpdJOLNoWw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_f9V854og
Set Realistic Goals
As a beginner, your progress can be rapid at first; however, it’s vital to set achievable, realistic goals to maintain motivation and progress. Instead of aiming to “get ripped in 30 days,” set goals like improving the weight you can squat or increasing the number of push-ups you can do in a row. These measurable achievements provide clear targets to hit and celebrate as you progress. The more you improve the more likely it is you’ll ‘accidentally’ end up at your goal whilst focusing on some massive habit changes, as a bonus, here’s a link to our Goal Setting Manual: https://drive.google.com/file/d/166nAYMzu4FOmCH0fOt2eTe90znwO_bqZ/view?usp=sharing
Prioritise Consistency Over Intensity
Consistency is key in any fitness regime, but it’s especially crucial in strength training. You don’t need to start with marathon gym sessions; even short, 15-minute sessions three times a week can yield visible results and health benefits over time. The goal is to make strength training a habit, integrating it seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Equip Yourself with Knowledge
Educate yourself on the different aspects of strength training, including the importance of nutrition, the role of rest and recovery, and the various types of strength training methods that exist. Resources are plentiful online, from articles and tutorials to video demonstrations. The more knowledgeable you are, the more empowered you’ll feel to make informed decisions about your training. We’ve written manuals on all of these subjects, just ask and we’ll send them over!
Final Thoughts
Starting on your strength training journey is an exciting step towards a healthier, stronger you. Remember, the key to success is starting right—under the guidance of a professional, setting achievable goals, and staying consistent. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us or we can recommend a coach to get started with personalised, guided sessions that can help ensure your success and safety.
We’d love to hear from you!
Are you considering starting strength training, or have you just begun your fitness journey?
Share your thoughts by emailing on the details below, and let’s get stronger together!
OC
Founder- Priority 6 www.p6gym.co.uk
Head Coach- The OC Method
Author- Build The Chain
Life Longer Learner
PS: Keen to get involved, apply for our program here:
https://kahunas.io/form/sh5pa7
#BuildTheChain
Priority 6 is THE fat loss and transformation centre in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. We have a hybrid approach to fitness through CrossFit classes, personal training, sports massage therapy and Hyrox classes.