Anonymous wrote:I second the rec for the burpee. No one likes it, but it's a really effective exercise. Jumping jacks, squat jumps and even "fake" jump rope don't take any equipment.

Combination exercises are great, like lunges with overhead press, the push-up mentioned above where you rotate a weighted arm or a deadlift with a high pull (google it).

For triceps, I recommend a tricep dip. You can probably do that on the edge of your couch. Make sure you keep your bum close to the couch and you'll be surprised how quickly you will wear out your arms.

Vinyasa yoga is also a great way to use your body weight to make you stronger.

present_tense wrote:Congrats on taking the plunge. It sounds like you're off to a great start.

I'm going to make the assumption that you're relatively new to lifting weights and aren't looking to be a bodybuilder. If that's the case, then you can skip the bicep and tricep movements. If you're looking for a boost to your metabolism, those "single-joint" movements aren't doing you much good. A single-joint movement is one in which only one joint is moving. In the case of your arm exercises, the only joint moving is the elbow.

The better bet for building muscle mass and burning fat is multi-joint movements. Yep, you guessed it. More than one joint is moving with those. If you want to work your biceps, do a dumbbell bent over row instead. That way you'll work your bigger muscles in your back while simultaneously working your biceps. It's a more efficient way of strength training (again, unless you're a bodybuilder or have tons of time).

Instead of doing a tricep-specific movement, stick to your push-ups and dumbbell overhead presses.

And as always--train your legs too! Learn how to do squats, lunges, and step ups.

Anonymous wrote:I absolutely love the book "New rules of Lifting for Women." It's a great resource with workouts and clear photos for each move. It literally changed my body. I have amazing shoulders now.