So, you want to officially commit to strength training. We’re so here for it! But, no doubt, diving into a new fitness regimen as a beginner can be daunting and overwhelming. Many beginners are unsure where to start: what exercises to do, how much weight to lift, or how to get the gains while also avoiding injury. There’s also an overload of conflicting information online and on social media, only adding to the confusion.
This is where an expert-penned, science-backed book is incredibly helpful and motivating. And Women’s Health has not one—but three!—game-changing playbooks to help you transform your routine, muscles, and mind with ease. Each resource was put together by one of our trusted certified trainers with deep knowledge of physiology, biomechanics, and training principles. Rather than relying on random workouts or trendy advice, try one of these effective roadmaps that will progress you to any fitness goal:
A Transformative Program Using Only Dumbbells
Programmed by fitness coach Nellie Barnett, CPT, The Woman’s Guide to Strength Training: Dumbbells offers a structured, beginner-friendly 12‑week workout plan designed specifically for women, complete with clear photos and Barnett’s expert tips to simplify free weight workouts. Barnett herself experienced a total transformation by following this routine.
A Specialized Guide For Women 40 And Up
Strong & Fit After 40 delivers a clear, expert-designed 28-day strength-training program specifically tailored to women in their 40s and beyond. It combines efficient full-body workouts with information on joint health, metabolism, and recovery. Developed by certified trainer Ashley Nicole, CPT, who specializes in training women with autoimmune conditions, the book features easy-to-follow routines under 30 minutes, minimal equipment needs, and step-by-step photos to build strength and boost longevity.
A Tool For Total Beginners
The Woman’s Guide to Strength Training features a 12-week strength-building plan specifically for women—with a major focus on proper form—to burn fat, build muscle, and boost overall health. Trainer Betina Gozo, CPT, structured the evidence-based routine and made sure it is doable and effective for both gym and home workouts, helping you gain confidence and results for the long term.
Jacqueline Andriakos, CPT, is the executive health and fitness director at Women’s Health, where she oversees all health and fitness content across WomensHealthMag.com and the print magazine. She has more than a decade of experience covering the wellness space and has edited ASME-nominated health features, spearheaded brand packages such as Fitness Awards, and represented the brand on the TODAY show, podcasts, and more. Before Women’s Health, Jacqueline was the deputy health features editor at Self.com, and previously worked as the senior editor at Health magazine. As a writer-reporter, she has contributed to print and online publications including TIME, Real Simple, and People, among others. A dancer throughout her youth, Jacqueline went on to study journalism at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and stoked her passion for health and fitness during her college years, ultimately inspiring her to make women’s health content the focus of her media career. She is constantly researching the latest health and wellness trends, trying a buzzy new workout class, hiking and snowboarding, or browsing athleisure. Her friends would describe her as the confidant to turn to for fitness and wellness advice, not to mention answers to any weird body questions. Jacqueline is also a former group exercise instructor and is a certified personal trainer via the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).