Shireroth

I've been trying for some time to get a regular exercise program going (largely inspired by Scott's LJ connection to some guy named 'The Ferret') , but I haven't the foggiest idea of where to start, how, or what's healthy to start out at. I mean, i'm pretty healthy at 6ft 198 pounds, but I wan't to do better and stop coasting. So, well, yeah, anyone's personal advice or experiance in this would be great, and don't laugh damnit!

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Seriously!

Well, I started with just push-up and sit-ups. Just set a start number like.. 15 for each. Or untill your muscles burn. Than each day increase by a few. The burn means your ripping the muscle, which is good. When it heals, it'll be stronger. So just keep pushing a lil farther everyday, but not to far. And make sure you stretch before and after. If you have access to machines, those can help.

That's what I've been doing, but being sick has slowed me down.

Oh, and make sure to eat well and sleep well.

The eating well I can do, but not the sleeping well. Cursed Insomnia.

If you start using weights or machine, a good technique is to count two seconds when you pull it up(down, whicever way the machine goes), and count four for going down. The strain as you hold it on the way down gives a better workout than just rushing through.

Another tip I was told was that a simple way to start using machines is to do one set of 12 reps on each different exercise, and if you're up to it, increase the weight a bit each week, but not to rush up in weight. You should slowly work your way into it even if it feels too light.

If you really want to get in shape, you should also look into eating a bit more protein, like steak and stuff, as protein is good for muscles.

Do you want to be healthier as in losing weight, as in becoming more muscular, or as in getting better endurance/etc?

Generally all of them really. I'm in fair shape right now, but I could do better in all fields.