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How much weight to use?

alex_everhere Posts: 3 Joined: 2007/01/04	2007/01/08, 09:07 AM I apologize if this is a stupid question, or one that has already been answered, but I'm just getting started with this...I'm starting my weight routine today, and I'm a little unclear on how much weight I should be using? For example, my fitness routine has me doing leg extensions and leg curls today, 4 sets with decreasing reps - I'm assuming that I'll want to increase weight for each set? How do I go about determining a good starting weight?
KC_72 Posts: 3,249 Joined: 2006/05/19	2007/01/08, 09:11 AM since you are just starting...start low...get your form down before moving to a heavy weight... It is all about what you are comfortable with..it will take some playing around with weight to figure it out..remember pain is NOT good...burn is good...big difference. -------------- \\"If you had one shot...or one opportunity to seize all you ever wanted...in one moment...would you capture it...or just let it slip\\" eminem
metalofhonor Posts: 16 Joined: 2006/12/26	2007/01/08, 12:07 PM i usually start out with 10 reps then 8 then 6 for the last set with filler exercises in between to equal out things
jaytori129 Posts: 657 Joined: 2006/11/14	2007/01/08, 03:33 PM you determine your limits based on your previous experience as well and depending on how much you lift regularly
jaytori129 Posts: 657 Joined: 2006/11/14	2007/01/08, 03:39 PM Message deleted by moderator due to unsuitable content for this board.
BIGKATT Posts: 82 Joined: 2006/12/19	2007/01/08, 10:17 PM Hey Alex! My answer would be to do a set of 15 repetitions with a low weight and if you are able to do that, increase the weight slightly to only allow yourself to do 10 repetitions. That is a good way to determine where you should begin. If I understand your fitness plan "my fitness routine has me doing leg extensions and leg curls today, 4 sets with decreasing reps" That would mean to do your first set with 10 reps, then do your second set with 8 reps, then third set with 6 reps etc... Hope I could help ya....Rob ============ Quoting from alex_everhere: I apologize if this is a stupid question, or one that has already been answered, but I'm just getting started with this...I'm starting my weight routine today, and I'm a little unclear on how much weight I should be using? For example, my fitness routine has me doing leg extensions and leg curls today, 4 sets with decreasing reps - I'm assuming that I'll want to increase weight for each set? How do I go about determining a good starting weight? =============
alex_everhere Posts: 3 Joined: 2007/01/04	2007/01/08, 10:27 PM thanks rob! yes, that's what i meant about the decreasing reps, they started with 20, then went to 16, 15, and 14. i started with 30 lbs today, and increased by 5 lb intervals for each set, and it was HARD, but not impossible, so i guess that will be about right for me to start with. wimpy, i know, but i have to start somewhere, right? :)
BIGKATT Posts: 82 Joined: 2006/12/19	2007/01/08, 11:06 PM The amount of weight isn't what's important :) What is most important is good form. It's best to start low and build the supporting muscles and then increase the weight over time. Good form is more important than most people realize because without good form you'd be wasting your time. So it sounds like you have a good start. I'd suggest sticking with the current poundage/ sets for a week or two , and the begin to progressively increase the weight each week or so. Like you said, everyone has to start somewhere, so be proud of where you are because all that matters at the end of the day is that you are working out and taking care of yourself. Just a hint of caution, be sure not to over-do the leg curls so you don't pull a hamstring :) -------------- Either You Worked Out Today or You Didn\'t
alex_everhere Posts: 3 Joined: 2007/01/04	2007/01/09, 08:22 AM thanks bigkatt, i'll keep that in mind when i go today! the gym i use is offering a women's weightlifting class that i've signed up for, so hopefully i'll be able to get some one on one guidance. i really appreciate all the input!