Lift Heavy or Lift Light?

[lalabanks]

I really hate going to the gym to use the weight equipment so I thought I could use my personal hand weights at home. The thing is I only have a set of 5 lbs. I could probably go buy an 8lb set as well. My question is do I have to lift heavier weights to get toned with my arms and gluts or can I use 5 and 8lbs and just do more reps?

[spanishteardrops]

How funny I asked my SO the same question today. I asked him because I went to the gym yesterday but I didn't really stuggle with the weights I used so I asked if I should increase the weight and he said if I wanted to just do more reps. He also said that people that don't really want to bulk up just tone do more reps instead of uping the weight. I think I will increase the weights today just to see the diffrence. HTH :Rose:

[lalabanks]

Thanks Spanishteardrops. I have to start the new year off right:)
I'll try the more reps just to see how it affects my body.

[good2uuuu]

That depends on what your goals are. Generally speaking, women can lift pretty heavy and not bulk up, unless they are using enhancement supplements. I personally prefer to push myself for strength gains and lean mass gains (the more muscle you have, the more fat you burn). Since your body will get use to those 5 lb and 8 lb weights, go ahead and get some 10 and 12 lb ones also and vary your workout. Some weeks use the light weights for higher reps. Other weeks try heavier weights for fewer reps and sets. This way you can get the most out of your weight training. You will have good toning and shape as well as more strength. Plus you will see faster gains. HTH.

[FlowerHair]

ITA Good2you,
variation is key. Don't let your muscles get used to any workout, keep changing it every once in a while.

[lalabanks]

Great advice. I think i'll hit Walmart tonight. If I atleast have a set of 5, 8, 10, and 12 I think that will hold me for awhile. I just have to use them or i'll here my husband complain about me having all this equipment and not using it.

But i'll give it my best.

[spanishteardrops]

I do agree with changing your routine up every once in a while. My SO was a PTL (physical training leader) while in the military. He recommended to me to do more reps. Do what fits you :)

[lalabanks]

Well I just purchased some 8lb weights. Who knew that they could be 7 dollars each. So I figured if need be i'll get 10 and 12 later on down the road. :)

Wish me luck..about to do some arms now :)

[ThickHair]

To get long and lean, low weight high rep. I am doing Slim Series with Debbie Seiber and that is the program.

[Poohbear]

I think it's recommended to alternate between both. Do one day of light weight training and one day of heavy weight training.

With light weight training, you do less weight but more reps. (ex. 12-15 reps of 5-10lbs)
With heavy weight training, you do more weight but less reps. (ex. 8-12 reps of 10-15lbs)

HTH!