As I’ve mentioned before, I am a weakling. This isn’t an understatement. One time I was holding a baby that couldn’t have been more than 12 lbs, and my arm started to go numb after what felt like forever (but it was really closer to 10 minutes, if that. It wasn’t just due to blood circulation, but also my arms tensing up and overcompensating for the lack of muscle. I had no choice but to manhandle the baby over to hubby and be in awe of the strength required for motherhood/fatherhood.
So here I am, trying to create/build up my muscles. During the first week of weights, I set all the machines to 30 lb. For the following two weeks, including this one, I upped the ante and set all the machines to 40 lb. I did the same amount of sets and reps (3 sets of 10 reps) all three weeks and let me tell you, I felt the burn throughout. I momentarily questioned whether I should increase the weights again or do another rep this, but my arms felt like jelly after the 3rd set and refused to pull or push even one more.
Much like most things related to body and health, there’s science behind muscle gains and weight lifting. For example, in the debate regarding more weight or more reps, it depends on the end goal. If the end goal is increasing muscle mass, then it’s recommended to complete a low number of reps with heavy weights. Conversely, if the end goal is increasing muscle endurance, it’s recommended to complete a high number of reps with light weights. Even better is a strategy alternating the two for long-term success.
Fitness experts also have suggestions when it’s best to up the weights. One such suggestion is the “2 for 2” rule: increase the weight when you’re able to complete 2 more reps with your current weight for 2 consecutive workouts. I can’t get past completing 1 more rep right now, let alone 2 reps, so I’m taking that as a sign to stay at 40 lb until I get a bit stronger. While I was grunting, hubby went on the elliptical because his racquetball partner cancelled. All in all, it was a good day.
30 Day Life Challenges 