Weight Training

In this page you will find all of the information you need to purchase products that have to do with weight training. For novices, there is information on training and fitness, as well as all the necessary products you might need to get started. For experienced lifters, click on the product links below to go directly to what you want.

For beginners who are looking to get into weight training or weightlifting, be aware that not all products are the same. Dumbbells will offer different advantages to you over home gyms and vice versa. Depending on your specific fitness needs, budget range, and personal preferences, you may find that one system will work better than the other. You might also want to go directly to the guides pertaining to dumbbells and home gyms for even more detailed information.

The Ways of the Weights: Which is Best for You?
Freeweights PROS: Easy to use. No instruction manuals and no fancy equipment. Won't break. Small and portable. Least expensive. They let your muscles work through their entire range of motion. Good for building muscle. Infinite versatility no matter what your fitness ability may be. CONS: Doesn't help novices learn proper form without some sort of guide, whether it be an exercise video, book, or trainer. Sometimes a spotter is necessary to avoid the risk of injury. Inability to replicate some exercises.	Home Gyms PROS: Most decent machines can match the quality of commercial gym equipment. Your movement is directed, smoother, and restricted to going one direction. It is helpful for beginners to learn proper form. There is no need for an extra person to help spot. Home gyms offer a convenient way of switching from one weight level to the next. Good for circuit training. CONS: By restricting your movement, you have to work around the machine, not around physical capabilities. The amount of maximum weight available is limited, which is not always good for advanced lifters.

Start Lifting

Weight training is a great activity to get into.  Not only is it a fun way to get your 30 minutes of exercise a day, but it will make you look and feel great.  Here are some quick tips for those who are taking the first steps to get the body of their dreams.

• Warming up and stretching are imperative.  These steps make sure your blood is pumping and your joints are warm, so that your muscles will function properly.
• Keep the first week of exercise light.  Focus on learning proper technique rather than overly exerting yourself.
• Keep your spine straight and don't writhe to lift heavy weight.  If you are doing this, you need to lift less.
• Remember to breathe.  This is harder than it sounds when you are lifting a lot.  It helps to purse your lips and blow while you lift.
• Stretching and lightly working out on your off days aids in recovery.

Basic Gear

If you don't want to put down the monthly fee for a gym membership, you can still get just as good a workout in your recreation room with this equipment.

Bench Press  Typically you need to buy the bench, barbell, and weights separately, but some come in sets.  Bench presses are a great way to build your chest and arms, and many benches are adjustable to make an incline press.  Some benches require assembly and the gym quality versions are welded together for heavy use.	Pull Up Bar  These go up in any doorway and they always provide a good workout for your back, arms, and biceps.	Dumbbell Set  An adjustable dumbbell set for your arm workout needs.	Weightlifting Gloves  Lifting gloves not only keep you hands from getting all calloused, they give you superior grip on the bar and strap around your wrist for additional support.  Your wrists are the weakest joint in your arm; strapped gloves help fortify them.

Related Guides

Barbells	Dumbbells	Home Gyms	Exercise Balls	Sports Nutrition