I do love discussions regarding the gym. The important thing to remember is that what works for some may not work for others. It really is a test to find out what your body reacts to best. You can only learn that in time with trial and error.
But when you make progress, the sense of achievement is fantastic; it assists your motivation in all aspects of life.
I have trained properly for just over 3 years now. Here is a picture of me from
2005 and this is one of me
today.
Keys:
- Learn the muscle groups and the exercises (
http://www.exrx.net/Lists/Directory.html)
- Find out what body type you have and adapt for diet (Ectomorph, mesmomorph, endomorph)
- Eat reasonably healthy (Good proteins, complex carbohydrates (Low GI), fruit and vegetables)
- Supplement on protein if you’re building muscle.
- Decide on a split that fits in with your life
- Sleep – the most important thing. You build muscle tissue in deep sleep when growth hormones are released.
- Safety – throwing weight figures around is much like throwing bhp figures around. Take it easy because ROM (Range of motion) and general form is more important to develop your body.
My experience:
You don't need to have a religious diet. I eat home made curry, meatballs and pasta, home made burgers, chilli – all of this can be healthy food. Use supplements as supplements (try to increase real food intake), I only use protein and creatine. Drink plenty of water to flush the toxins from your body.
It doesn't matter what other people are doing in the gym, you need to avoid thinking about that and concentrate on yourself.
Use the machines first until you're comfortable using free weights. Going with a friend is the best approach.
EDIT: One other point, don't let it take over your life, it's fun. It doesn't matter if you skip a few days now and then, or eat a KFC or Pizza when you feel shit. I do and I still drink alcohol (Try to only get pissed once a week though lol)!
sum love mate <3
