Getting Started-Manageable and Inexpensive Ways to Ease Into Resistance Exercise

by Ron Zacker, RD, CDE

If you’ve never lifted weights before, you may be intimidated by the thought of doing so. Here are some more manageable (and inexpensive) ways to ease into resistance exercise without having to join a gym.

Water Aerobics

The water itself provides resistance to your limbs as you move your arms and legs in the pool. It is a relatively painless way to introduce some semblance of resistance exercise into your life.

Exercise Videos

There are strength-training videos that walk you through a routine, all in the comfort of your own home. These videos may utilize bodyweight exercises, household “weights” (large soup cans) or resistance bands (large rubber band apparatus) into the routine. Some will use more traditional equipment such as dumbbells or barbells.

Books and Magazines

There are many well-written resources available to show you simple, do-it-at-home resistance exercises. One such resource is “Exercise: A Guide from the National Institute on Aging.” You can obtain a copy by calling (800) 222-2225.

Also, community-based wellness, recreation or senior centers typically offer group strength exercise classes that are reasonably priced. These groups are very “user friendly” and are ideal for beginners.