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Anonymous
Hey guys,

I spend between 45 minutes and an hour every day swimming, running, biking, or on the elliptical so I'm in okay shape but I want to spice things up some with a little weight training. I'm 5 feet (152 cm) and was a serious swimmer for several years so I've already got a little too much muscle for my frame. I don't want to beef up; just tone.

So I've been trying out different contraptions at the gym and doing something like 3 sets of 10 - 15 reps with a 30 second rest between sets. The weight I use is usually one or two down from one that is uncomfortable to lift on the first rep.

So am I doing it right? For toned muscles, should I lift more reps of smaller weights, fewer reps of heavier weights or something totally different? I'm a total noob to weightlifting so I'd appreciate any suggestions.
>> Anonymous
Google and the library are your best friends when it comes to basic knowledge about weight lifting and general fitness. Until you have a specific question don't bother the nice message board folk.
>> Anonymous
>>14508
>specific question
Above, find my weightlifting routine. Do you think it that
a) it's good for a little toning?
b) it's too much and I'll end up a beast?
c) it's not enough to yield any results?
>> Anonymous
I'll tell what I tell everyone (until we get a stickied FAQ):

The best books for beginners are Starting Strength and Dinosaur Training. Either one will get you focused on compounds movements and building strength.
>> Anonymous
>>14517
1) Don't tone. There is no such thing as toning. "Muscle tone" comes from having low bodyfat.
2) Building muscle is good for fat loss.
3) No one ever got "too big" accidentally.
>> Anonymous
>>14525
Wow, I posted on 4chan and got helpful advice from a rational person.