So I finally joined the gym

**kcvmac** · Posted On: 3/14/2011 9:28pm

...And gained 10 pounds in 5 weeks, by eating like a ************ and chugging down MRPs. Halfway to my first goal, two weeks so far on the machines, and in two weeks I'm gonna try to make the switch to real weights.

I work out at odd, odd hours. I probably don't have any spotters or anyone that can show me how to work anything, so I gotta keep everything stupid simple. I have no real exp. with free weights. My questions are such:

Is the Smith machine useful for doing a 5x5 strength program?

Does isolation work have any place at all in strength training?

Should I bother with splits this early, or just learn to squat/deadlift and stick with 'em each session?

Chin-ups or barbell curls?

Thanks all.

**kenny_free** · Posted On: 3/14/2011 9:38pm

www.stronglifts.com

take the guesswork out of it.

DO NOT SQUAT ON THE SMITH MACHINE

I know that it is tempting, and some people do. But free weight squats allow your body to travel backwards and forward with the weight, as well as up and down, insuring your ability to keep proper form. Form is the only thing you've got, if your worried about tipping over, start with a light weight (read the bar and some 25's) until you get your form right. Then work your way up. Just dont max without a training partner.

Do they have a squat rack at your gym?

**kcvmac** · Posted On: 3/16/2011 12:34am

Yep, squat rack check. Looks like this one:

I've looked into the SL5x5 program, I'm just trying to get some other opinions on the finer points before I start. Since I'm trying to work without a spotter, I need to find out what's safest(read scared ickle n00b). I've just got the e-book, and I'm going to run it by one of the personal trainers, who's a Pendlay nut, just 'cause.