Where do you start after not lifting for four years? The last time I was lifting was back in '99 when I graduated HS. The reason I ask is that I tried to squat 135 today and I struggled the entire time which lead me to wonder if I didn't overdo it a bit. That brings me to ask; where do I start? It sounds like a really dumb question, but how do you pick a weight to start out with on body parts that have had little to no use?
Posted by: CowPimp
If you are worried about injuries or something like that, then it can't hurt to do some bodyweight exercises for a week or two first as a preparatory phase to resistance training. Once you do get back to hitting the weights, start with lighter weights that you can lift 12-20 times. Stick with those weights until you feel comfortable going heavy.
Posted by: hawk05
Better safe than sorry. You're going to make big gains in the first few months no matter what, so its better to just take it light for a few weeks.
Posted by: ChrisROCK
Agreed. Whenever I've had a long layoff...I always do two-weeks or so of circuit type training. Moderate weights, higher reps. Just to get the body back and primed for heavier weights. Stretch plenty (always), of course.
Posted by: PTOManiac
Thanks you guys. I'll try doing less weight next time because my legs are sore as hell.
Posted by: Egoatdoor
[quote=PTOManiac] The reason I ask is that I tried to squat 135 today and I struggled the entire time which lead me to wonder if I didn't overdo it a bit. [quote]