Let's Talk Strength Training

How is it possibly Monday already? And the last week of October?!? I feel like the weeks keep getting faster and faster. I don't know if I like this or not. I was at my dad's again to use the treadmill. 

I don't have a problem with the treadmill, especially when it's cold outside and I'm tired. For some reason, I can go longer on the 'mill than when I am alone outside. I think it's because I started my running on this very treadmill. And I finally got a picture of our backyard for you.

I feel so lucky to have grown up with the huge trees right behind me.

Now, it's no secret that I have a love hate relationship with running. But what I simply have a love relationship with is strength training. I love lifting heavy weights and setting them back down again. I've been lifting consistently for over 2 years, and guess what? I still don't look like The Hulk.

There's something about strength training that makes me feel powerful. Getting through a set makes me feel accomplished, and I get to rest for 30 seconds-a minute. Nothing wrong with sitting around during a workout.

I do a 4 day split, which means I lift Monday and Tuesday, do something random on Wednesdays and then lift again on Thursdays and Fridays. I made up the routine I have been using for awhile, but I took all of my lifts from other really reputable sources such as bodybuilding.com.

I train for hypertrophy and not strength, which means I choose a weight that I can lift for 10-12 reps instead of just 1 or 2. I always do three sets before moving on to the next exercise. These are what my days look like:

These routines take me anywhere between 30-45 minutes, depending on how long I rest in between. I still get sore after leg day. Every time.

If you are interested in strength training but have no idea where to start, I'd reccomend reading New Rules of Lifting for Women, which is what I started with. Also, bodybuilding.com has some great beginner workouts.