jstreet0204
Active Member
Gearbanger 101 said:Core exercises involve barbells only. They are strictly old school power movements and often can not be properly performed on machines.
I think you guys are talking about two different things here. One of the newer trends in fitness is "core" stability exercises that focus on the torso muscles. These are usually done with wobble boards and stability balls. (not my thing) When he said he "wants to work from the inside out" that gave me the impression this is what he is talking about.
Also while old school compound exercises are good for some, I would only recommend them to athletes, power lifters, and "young" lifters starting out. They will do more harm than good for the average joe just wanting to get in shape. There is just too much chance for injury, and they are hard on your joints. While I am probably in the best shape of my life right now, my joints have paid a price and there is always something I am having to ice down when I get home from the gym.
To add a few more things, for the orignal poster, get you workout locked down. You will have much better results if you know exactly what your workout is going to consist of everyday you go into the gym. fitrex.com is a good start if you need help putting a workout together.
Pay close attention to how much time you rest between sets. After a few weeks of getting used to working out again, start watching the clock between sets. You will burn nearly 50% more calories during your workout if you rest only 30 seconds between each set as opposed to 1 minute.