Originally Posted by
hondaman
I'm a 35 year old male who used to work out when I was 18-22. I picked up smoking and havent worked out since. I'm not entirely out of shape, but I am tired of the way I look compared to the way I used to look. I have wanted to get back to the gym for a long time, but I couldnt motivate myself while I was still smoking. It seemed so counter productive.
I'm kicking the smoking habit, and am excited to rebuild my body. I would especially like to somehow fast track it so that I can look good this summer.
So a few beginner questions:
1: Should I approach my workout differently since I have been a smoker, and from a cardio standpoint, am in bad shape? If you are talking about cardio then keep it light but for as long as possible, i.e 30mins at 120 HR. There is no need to start sprinting ect this will do nothing for fat burning anyway. Keep cardio for the end of your weights session or first thing in the morn on empty stomach then do your weights later.
2: How fast should I ramp up my workout? I know I will want to push myself hard, as I used to back in the day, but I dont want to injure myself. Start the first week with a circuit style programme to get you used to the weights again. Dont go too heavy or you are likely to hurt yourself. Just ease back in then when you feel comfortable think about splitting body parts for workouts
3: Supplements. Yes or No? Pre and Post workout whey protein drink with double the ammount of carbs (dextrose or lower gi like powdered oats whichever you prefer) would be as much as i wouls suggest at the moment. try 20g pro and 40g carbs pre and bouble that for post. When you start to become fitter and hit a plateau consider adding creatine. If fat loss is a goal consider AMP or similar energy/fat burners
4: Home gyms like bowflex, etc. Worth it? I know I would be more inclined to workout if its not a big hassle, ie. going to the gym. Comments on this I am really interested in. Forget them they are crap. Get down the gym and do it properly
Thanks to all, I am looking forward to spending long hours doing my homework!
Reply With Quote
