At first it is uncomfortable. Weight training is like flossing.

Make this your norm.

At the time of this writing, I am uncomfortable. I’ve been wanting to start writing about my life-long passion for fitness, health and wellness and how it can serve as the foundation for success in life. But I’ve been wasting time trying to come up with the best plan to provide this content.

I was in the gym this morning around 6 am. I like doing it first thing when no one else is in the shared gym in my apartment building. I noticed the bar pad, the soft foam cushion that can be used to ease the discomfort of a 45-lb. steel bar sitting on your shoulders when squatting. Don’t delay getting into the raw feeling of steel on the back. Never use the bar pad. Eventually your body will adapt and it will be more comfortable. It will feel better overall because the bar is directly connected to your body.

Weight training is like flossing. Everyone must do it to retain muscle and bone health. More muscle is better from a functional standpoint. I want everyone to find their favorite form of movement, whether it’s running, dance, yoga, volleyball… but everyone will benefit from consistent resistance training, I recommend multi-joint exercises like squats, deadlifts, presses and rows (or chins) to gain the most benefit in the least amount of time.

Take it easy when you start. Get the movements down. Might be worth it to get a trainer to teach you form. But then there’s lots of great YouTube content. I like Brussels Barbell for foundation videos.