Beginners: Why weights?

If you're a beginner to the world of weight training, please share with us why you've chosen to hit the weights?

Are you skinny and want to get bigger?

Are you overweight and looking to lose some fat?

Do you play a sport and want weights to help your performance?

Have you decided competative bodybuilding / powerlifting / strongman is for you?

Did you mate drag you down the gym?

Has your partner told you to shape up?!

Just bored looking for something to do?

Or any other reason?

Let us know guys and girls!  This topic is meant as an ice-breaker - if you're a lurker, why not sign up and let us know!

Thanks, and enjoy MT!

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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I'm 5' 10" and weigh 119 lbs.

I've always been skinny and under that average BMI line for as long as I can remember. I know my problem is that I don't eat, I wait until I'm really hungry and then eat.

I've had a couple of half-assed attempts at putting on weight. High carb and protein shakes and I seen slight gains.

I didn't keep it up though but I'll start again this September. Got myself a copy of starting strength and scrawny to brawny, gonna' set out a diet and routine to see if I can put on some serious mass.

I'd like to say I joined here though because of "Murphyblew" inspired me; he was roughly my size when he started and look at him now, I'd like to make similar achievements.
 
Thanks for havin' me on this great forum.

Ash

Im Rik and im 40 years old. 5' 10" and 184 Ibs..
 
For me it's a mid life crisis.... lol
 
Well in a way it is, been divorced and single for 4 years. Was getting lazy and putting on weight.
 
I was eating the wrong things and spending too much time infront of the TV.
 
Made reduntant twice recently so now have some time on my hands. It's the perfect time to turn my life around.
 
I have hit the weights on and off for 25 years but my problem is motivation so never followed it through.
 
My goal is to get lean and mean and to attract that new girl..  wink..wink..
 
Also want to get my self worth back and have this inspire my kids...
I want them to remember me for what i will become through weights and not what i might have become without them.
 
Glad to be here so lets do it.!
 
RIK
 

Hi I'm lowviz and I want to lose fat basically. I weighed 248 pounds (6ft 2in, 38 years old and body fat % of around 25%) when I started training 7 weeks ago. I have in the last 7 weeks transformed my diet (high protein/fat & 6 meals a day) and go to the gym 3 times a week lifting weights to build up muscle mass/etc. I now weight 230lbs and my body fat% is around 22%.

My sessions are mainly based on using dumbbells as my gym is a bit low on free weight equipment. I am though serving my notice and will be looking for a new gym in Bristol where I should be able to squat/deadlift with free weights (Any recommendations greatfully received). I focus on compound full body routines but with also add cardio in at the end of the sessions to help burn the fat.

Goals are to increase strength and reduce bodyfat to below 18%. As long as my waist drops to below 36inches I don't care what I weigh to be honest. This is a life change more than anything and I am determined to make a difference this time.

im 31yo, 5'10", 11.5 stone. skinny with a belly.......  always wanted to bulk up. going to give it a good go...

Tony

I'm 18, 5'8 and 132lbs so im a pencil neck just skinny no skinny fat just skinny. and want to get bigger hopefully i'll look like this in 10 years LOL
 

 
oh and iv been on the board ages but only just started weight training in August.
Joe

http://www.ugm.org.uk/

the tren of forums
 

Great stories so far guys, keep them coming...

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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I'm 6'3" and have gone from 17st to 14st through separation and stress. I now want to rebuild my life, gain health, strength, fitness and would love to get up to about 16st solid to look and feel great. Not sure if it's possible to start at 36yrs and whether the gains at this age just are not possible like they would be at 18yrs. Found a great gym with a fantastic instructor though. Here goes!!!

Ed.


I'm 6'3" and have gone from 17st to 14st through separation and stress. I now want to rebuild my life, gain health, strength, fitness and would love to get up to about 16st solid to look and feel great. Not sure if it's possible to start at 36yrs and whether the gains at this age just are not possible like they would be at 18yrs. Found a great gym with a fantastic instructor though. Here goes!!!

Hi Ed, welcome.

I know plenty of new trainers who have started at beyond 36 years old mate!  Have a look at this for inspiration: http://www.ronniewatt.com/

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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I'm still a beginner I guess, started about a month ago. I'm not fat, but not skinny. I have a bit of excess fat or "puppy fat"... the main reason for me doing weights is to become stronger and bigger. I feel it makes you more confident as a person, especially in situations where things might kick off - if you're strong or look big, you may not be targeted or attacked, and if you are you might get out of it unscathed.

I think I'm kinda lucky in a way... I can see gains real quick. For example, if I train on day 1 quite intense, and then day 2 eat a load of protein, by day 4 - 5 I can see a noticeable difference in the size of my biceps or chest. It's not a huge difference, but it can be noticed. Maybe I have good genetics for bodybuilding?

James

Hi Ed, welcome.

I know plenty of new trainers who have started at beyond 36 years old mate!  Have a look at this for inspiration: http://www.ronniewatt.com/

That's very impressive for an oldie. There's hope for us all yet!!! I never expected gains to be so dramatic at that age and in that space of time.

I have an average body size, i'm 5'8'' and 165lbs. Bulking up this september until next april to get as big as possible. I'd like to reach 200lbs of hard muscle.

Having always been a skinny person, I finally decided I'd had enough and to gain a bit of weight, preferrably of the healthy variety.

Been working at my home gym for the last month or so, and have managed to put on about 3kg so far (just hit 70kg for the first time ever).

Thinking of going to the gym down the road to get on some of the machines down there, think I saw mention of it somewhere else on the board (Finedon gym), but have been a little self conscious of my small size when doing body building in public.

^^Don't worry about it, cuz we all have to start off somewhere. The gym where I go, there's people of all sizes and they're all doing their own thing. Yea a gym is an intimidating atmosphere for the first time, but once you go 2-3 times you'll forget all your worries and concentrate on your goals.

Grunth0s

but have been a little self conscious of my small size when doing body building in public.

I think this has to be one of the main issues with new people starting out. There are a few things to remember that will help:

• Nobody will look at you and think, damn he's skinny; go home mate.
• Nobody will laugh at you for struggling with warm-up weights. Everyone did once.
• Gaining health and strength are far more important than pride or inferiorities.
• Your money is as good as theirs.
• Give yourself time to get over the initial shock of going. You're more sensitive of others around you when you first go. After a couple of weeks it's only you and the weights.

HI all,
         I am 33 and started to lift weights about 6 months ago, I am in the Army and have allways been known as a skinny racing snake!!! So have almost stopped all the running and am trying to put on as much muscle as possible. I have no interest in competeing but since i have started i have got a whole heep of respect for the guys that do, the ammount of dedication and effort to get to that level is mind boggling. Anyway like i said, I am currantly about 12 stone and would love to put on about a stone to a stone and half of prime beef Just because i have allways been jealous of the guys with the good physique's and allways thought i would love to look like that...... Well here goes!! Cheers Deano.

Joined site about 6 months ago but only dip in now and again. Started training about the same time.
I'm 28 and overweight. Looking to be 29 and looking fine!
But seriousley...
19st and 5'11. Always been pretty stocky (48" chest) but over the last few years have got the gut to match.  etc...
Want to lose fat and gain muscle, not fussed if my overall weight doesn't change that much, I'd be happy just swapping the fat for muscle!

Hi all, Im Jamie 35yrs old 5'10" and about 14st. Starting training to get fit, build muscle and get more confidence. I just have some dumbells in my room and get my routines from here and change them every month or so.

thanks Jamie

ive always been insecure and always wanted to hit the gym from the age of 16 .
i was always into taking drugs and drinking from an early age something which i regret now lol
I never really had the balls to go the gym untill i got a hold of my life 2 years ago .
i remeber messing about with weights when i was younger but nothing serious .
i have always been skinny and i always thought that i couldnt put on any weight untill i found MT .
i started training at 11 stone and am now sitting at 13 and half stone and im starting to like the positive comments im getting concerning muscle gains.
i dont no what i would do now if i didnt have training in my life
as for competeing i would consider it in a few years when i get near to the physic im looking

  Martin O'Neil: "Why am I in the second team, boss??" Brian Clough: "Because you're too good for the third"

well i have spent most of my life not caring what i looked like or if i lived or died to be honest

but then when i hit an all time low i meet the girl of my dreams ( and yes i know it sounds corny but i dont care lol )

and even tho she is not the kind to ask you to change i would like to look good for her

i plan to move to texas to be with her by 2011
so i have time lol  but its not just for her
iv never been happy with the way i look  i dont want to be really big just bigger and to look and feel good about myself 

i do try to keep fit and i gave up smoking on will power alone ill post some pics and then we can see how diff i look after say 6 months ( dont expect a big diff ) it will take much longer cant build overnight

or every one would do it

but its like my late nan said
anything worth having has to be worked for

but ill need alot of advice for you guys and girls
thank you

Hey im rob, I'm 16 and currently weigh 10 stone. Im desperately trying to put on weight, i've always considered myself quite skinny, i have long legs and long arms so not the best body to work with in my opinion. I've been hitting the gym 3 times a week taking a single protein bar (50g) after my 1hr30min workout. Still having trouble putting weight on so im considering changing my diet aka eating more cheese etc :P. 

I'd love to look like some of the body builders on this forum so I will keep at it, as that is my key motivation at the moment.

Thanks for the advice guys.

Im 21, about 5ft 10 and weigh just over 10 stone. Ive been going to the gym for the past year on and off. Think my starting weight was about 9 stone. This site has been a massive help to point me in the right direction in terms of teaching me what to do in the gym and the nutritional side of things. I know ill never be big like some of the people on here but just getting to 11 stone would be great for me.
Currently trying to improve strength and do more cardio ready for when i aplly for the Royal Navy.

I chose to start weight training because i wanted to add some muscle to my skinny frame. In my youth i was a keen runner, which didnt do me many favours in terms of adding weight. Ive always been lean, but never really muscly. I decided it was time to really concentrate on lifting weight and changing the way my body looked.

I couldnt really imagine life without going to the gym, its kind of like my sanctury now. I go to work out, and all my stresses and strains dissapear. By the time i finish, im refreshed and ready to go home to my wife and kids!

Age 24
5' 11"
65kg

Bench Press Max - 85kg
Squat Max - 70kg

Hi, I'm Sandi

I've lost quite a bit of weight over the last year or so - changed the diet & hit the gym but have got to the point where my 3-4 body pump classes  a week are just not cutting it anymore.

I've lost a lot of inches all over & look a lot leaner & more defined but want to take things to the next level now with the wieight training.
 
I enjoy lifting weights & want to see how far I can push myself - I like a challenge

(There doesn't seem to be that many girls around though   )

I'm 20, I weigh 9s 8lbs, which is skinny for my 5ft 9", I ve started working out, to help gain weight/muscle, my diet is coming along nicely and i've gained 8lbs since i started, however, i seem to be stuck on top of the fence, and can't seem to budge above 10 stone,

Will need lots of advice from you lot

Thanks

OverkillGB


Hey im rob, I'm 16 and currently weigh 10 stone. Im desperately trying to put on weight, i've always considered myself quite skinny, i have long legs and long arms so not the best body to work with in my opinion. I've been hitting the gym 3 times a week taking a single protein bar (50g) after my 1hr30min workout. Still having trouble putting weight on so im considering changing my diet aka eating more cheese etc :P. 

I'd love to look like some of the body builders on this forum so I will keep at it, as that is my key motivation at the moment.

Thanks for the advice guys.

Hi Rob, good goals to have.  The key to attaining a top physique is consistency - be consistent about everything.

bezza blackpool


Im 21, about 5ft 10 and weigh just over 10 stone. Ive been going to the gym for the past year on and off. Think my starting weight was about 9 stone. This site has been a massive help to point me in the right direction in terms of teaching me what to do in the gym and the nutritional side of things. I know ill never be big like some of the people on here but just getting to 11 stone would be great for me.
Currently trying to improve strength and do more cardio ready for when i aplly for the Royal Navy.

No such thing as 'never', Bez!  I was 9 stone wet through at 16 years old.  I'm now well over 15 stone and not fat.

sandi955i


Hi, I'm Sandi

I've lost quite a bit of weight over the last year or so - changed the diet & hit the gym but have got to the point where my 3-4 body pump classes  a week are just not cutting it anymore.

I've lost a lot of inches all over & look a lot leaner & more defined but want to take things to the next level now with the wieight training.
 
I enjoy lifting weights & want to see how far I can push myself - I like a challenge

(There doesn't seem to be that many girls around though   )

Hi Sandi

Good goals!  There are a lot of ladies posting here; but not so many in the Beginners' section

braddersz


I'm 20, I weigh 9s 8lbs, which is skinny for my 5ft 9", I ve started working out, to help gain weight/muscle, my diet is coming along nicely and i've gained 8lbs since i started, however, i seem to be stuck on top of the fence, and can't seem to budge above 10 stone,

Will need lots of advice from you lot

Thanks

Welcome to MT!  Think a stone ahead.  You want to be an 11 stone man, so you've got to eat like an 11 stone man.  If the weight isn't going up, eat more.  Of course, you'll need to stick to a good diet.  But if you need advice, start a new topic and we'll happily help.

My weight has been up and down more times than a yo-yo and i'm keen to finally gain control over my nutrition and make consistent training a part of my life. My body has taken a lot of abuse throughout my 20s and I'm keen to make amends.
 
Approaching 31 I'm keen to reduce my body fat low enough to reveal my abdominals, not just for vanity but for the greatest sense of personal achievement.
 
My question to you guys in all your knowledge is this possible at my age, I should also mention that I take Citalopram for anxiety/depression I'm not sure if this has an effect on fat loss.
 
Really appreciate you all taking time to read this and would be grateful for any feedback
 

Hi IWA - welcome

Yes, of course it's possible - you're only 31 mate!

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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Injury changed my mind what i wanted to do I had to fine somthing to keep my mind oppupied and acheive personal stats, I really like putting on muscle and I feel great for it i have so much more motivation everyone has told me i seem alot happier with myself.
One day I really would like to stand on stage even if it is just one time just to see what its like. :)

Alex, I'm 18 and over the past year or so have gone down from 18-19 stone,   to now around 12.     Though even with that weight gone, I'm still  "skinny fat"  if thats the right term for it, and havn't had much luck at my local gym in the way of help or advise on what I need to be doing, so came here.

 Still feel abit embarrassed to make posts asking questions, or to stick a few pics up to better describe my problem :)

Aleexander


Alex, I'm 18 and over the past year or so have gone down from 18-19 stone,   to now around 12.     Though even with that weight gone, I'm still  "skinny fat"  if thats the right term for it, and havn't had much luck at my local gym in the way of help or advise on what I need to be doing, so came here.

Still feel abit embarrassed to make posts asking questions, or to stick a few pics up to better describe my problem :)

Why be embarressed?  The Beginners forum is for the layman.  Post your questions and we'll gladly help - remember I was a skinny 18 year old once too....

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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russforever


Injury changed my mind what i wanted to do I had to fine somthing to keep my mind oppupied and acheive personal stats, I really like putting on muscle and I feel great for it i have so much more motivation everyone has told me i seem alot happier with myself.
One day I really would like to stand on stage even if it is just one time just to see what its like. :)

If you train hard, and eat well you could do this in a couple of years!

James Collier
MT Co-Owner & Event Promoter
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Not skinny as such, just "skinny fat" is the right term for it?  An average weight, but still consisting of too much body fat %.    Thought losing the weight in the first place would fix that problem, but guess thats only one stage of coming down from a high weight? :)

 Will do thanks, nice post idea gets people to talk :)

alex

Andy, 33, 200lbs 17% body fat. I was in the Army for 8 years and did Martial Arts for 5, had to give up for personal reasons. So I have always been pretty fit and active.

Then a few weeks ago I caught a glimpse of a pot bellied bloke in the mirror, then realised it was me

So I joined a gym with the intention of loosing the spare tyre with some cardio work, and gain a bit of muscle on the weights to look good for myself and the Mrs.

The instructors have set me a CV and weights program, and Thursday sees me start it.

Onwards and upwards

going back 3 years ago i was doing well in strongman was training with dale norris wales strongest man but had a few proplems and just lost a lot of wieght but wnt 2 get back into it naw and go for it and try and get up with the big boys

i've always been quite big naturally, when i was born my rib cage was so big the doctor counted my ribs to be sure i hadn't got 2many lol.  lately work has slowed down and i've gone up2 19 stone but it now means i have the time to start training. joined a gym a month ago and ive been going at 6 in the mornin 5 days a week and im lovin it. just want to do more and more lol

Weights for me is because im quite tall and slim and i want some size, vain i know but ive always thought being well built looked good so now im gonna try and look good myself.