I know, I know. You're champing at the bit to hit the gym after that New Year's resolution to get ripped this year. I was once like you; amped to get into the gym and start pumping iron. You're eager - but let's slow down a minute. You need to start slow and work your way up -- trust me! There's a few basics you should know. And if I didn't catch you before that first visit you're probably like I was when I first started working out -- too sore to workout for a week! All I was thinking was "what did I do wrong?"

The truth is, I had gone too fast and just jumped in when I should have taken things slow and built my strength gradually - although everything worked out fine in the long run, a lot of would be weight lifters get discouraged quickly because they failed to start small in their bodybuilding plans.

While this is a big part of my concern, it's not the only one (although I do hate to see people drop out and fail to reach their potential). One of the other bad by products of "green" body builders being to enthusiastic is Injuries can easily result after those first few workout sessions. (Say it with me "injuries are bad!")

I'd like to give those of you who are new to strength training a few pointers on getting started the right way. It can make all the difference between success and failure in weightlifting; so please, read on!

The first thing you want to do is help your body be prepared for the rigors of strength training -- we call this anatomical adaptation in the "nerd" circles. Before you even hit the weight room, consider starting with a routine of full body workouts to build overall strength and endurance.

When you feel ready (or simply cannot wait), try just one exercise per area of the body you want to focus strength training on and keep your number of reps low; even if you don't feel "pumped" right away don't worry. You are laying the ground work for serious bodybuilding later. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither were the weightlifting pros. Be patient.

After a few weeks, you can gradually increase the amount of weight you are lifting and add a few more reps - stick with this new weight and number of reps for a few weeks before increasing. One more thing; the pros know this, but it's extra important fro the beginner: make sure to take a day off in between workout days (two days if it has been an exceptionally strenuous workout).

Remember, slow and steady is the smart way to start strength training. You'll begin building muscle before you know it, but you have to start small. And the benefit is that you'll be focusing on having good form, staying injury free, and doing things the RIGHT way... which means you can enjoy strength training for a lifetime. Have a great workout!