I want to pump up, how can I start?

[fixiegrrl]

There's already a lot of good advice posted so I have to add a tid bit of my own. I am a firm believer and do engage in building good core strength. There are so many benifits other than having a killer midsection such as balance (needed for cycling) and good posture. What's great about core training is that you can do it at home and you don't need heavy gym equipment to do it.

A qualified trainer can help you develop a workout plan that would best meet your specific goals. Although, I do have to say that personal trainers can be really good or awful. Speaking from personal experience, I have found that even though they are certified, they sometimes give bad advise, teach improper lifting techniques or simply aren't that helpful. On the other hand, there are some really good trainers that can "put the hurt on you" in the good way. Sometimes you may have to go through a few trainers before you find one that clicks with your personality. Sessions are expensive but are (in my opinion) worth it to learn proper form and understand exactly what mucles your working and why.

A workout buddy is also a great motivator to help you get the most from your gym workouts. It helps push you mentally and physically when you need it. But however you ultimately decide to strength train, have fun doing it becuase it will make it seem less like a job and more like play.

Good Luck with your training.