Learn How to Weight Train With a Body Sculpt Class

I'm a personal trainer and a Spinning instructor but there was a time when I was afraid to venture into the weight room. I was so intimidated by the machines, free weights, and the fit and toned people who used them. I didn't know anything about weight training and merely blundered my way through some pretty ineffective workouts. I've learned a lot about fitness over the years, and I have some advice for people who want to weight train but aren't sure how to start.

One of the best ways to learn about building muscle through weight training is to take a body sculpting class. Of course, you could always hire a personal trainer at your gym but not everyone can afford that. Most gyms offer a sculpting/weight training class. Sometimes the titles vary so check out your gym schedule and ask someone about the types of classes. Sculpting classes generally use free weights, bands, balls, body weight and other equipment for a fun all over muscle workout. If you've never used weights before you should start out with light weights. However, after two or three weeks of regular classes you need to slowly increase your weights. You can't progress unless you keep challenging yourself and your body. Don't worry women; you're not going to look like a female Arnold Schwarzenegger. Those types of muscles take seriously long hours of hard work and a singular lifestyle dedicated solely to the body.

When you take a sculpting class be aware that most instructors want their students to enjoy the class and to return on a weekly basis. They're very willing and open to suggestions and questions. Contrary to popular belief, we're not there to drive people into the ground. We want to help you achieve your fitness goals and feel good about yourself. I talk to my students about healthy eating ideas and lifestyles. I've offered to show students around the weight room (not during class) so that they can have a better idea of how things work. I also try to adjust my classes to the different people who attend. For example, if I have a hard, intense class planned but only one or two people show up who are obviously not very experienced, I need to tone things down a bit and make sure they get a good workout for their needs. If it's a mixed class I show different ways to either increase or decrease the intensity, depending on their fitness level.

Sculpting, or toning, classes can be a great way to learn about your body and your fitness goals. They're also a great way to learn how to weight train because you're motivated by the instructor and the people around you in class. After a while you might decide to venture into the weight room. No matter what your goals, weight training is one of the best ways to tone up, build muscle mass and increase your metabolism.