I need strength training recommendations!

[trigal]

As most of you know, my H&F goals generally involve long-distance triathlon. However, my plan for next season is to stick with sprints and Olympic-distances with the objective of getting faster. That will include some strength training once I recover from IMMT (which is in 2.5 weeks!). Soooo...

I need a strength training program. I haven't done any real strength training (other than Pilates) in about 2 years. Also, I've struggled with a recurring thoracic muscle strain, so I have to be able to ease into it. I've done NROL4W and NROL for Abs, but I'm looking for other suggestions. Or, at least something to ease me into that type of training. I've considered a personal trainer, but it's not really in the budget. I need something structured, though. If left to my own devices, I will not do well. Also, I like the idea of keeping things changing. I don't want to do the same thing time after time. I'm 40 years old and need to keep my metabolism revved. I could use a mix of traditional weights, using body weight, and everything in between.

I want to gain power and I need to lose some weight (I know that my diet also needs to be addressed).

Suggestions? Recommendations?

[joenali]

Seriously go to deep water aerobics and use the hydro fit water weights. My arms were burning yesterday! A fun and different way to get in strength training!

[pixy0stix]

Honestly, I would get a trainer. One session each month to shake things up.

[juliabug]

Have you tried a body pump type class? I think the low weights/high number of reps would fit in with your goals. Plus, it's easy and fun.

[awick14]

I do a group strength class at the gym 1-2x/ week depending on my work schedule.

The class is a mix of different exercises and you can do your own degree of difficulty, by using no weights, or 3,5,8,10+ pounds. (Do squats, lat pulls, and such.)

[mrsukyankee]

If you are willing to spend some money the Cathe system is really good - it changes up every several weeks or so.  

[al320]

The only strength program i will stick to is in class form. Im just not motivated enough to do it myself. Ive seen more progress with orange theory (plus theres cardio, yay!) than anything else. Not sure if theres one by you, but chrck it out.

[ddi741]

The Body Beast program is good. I did the build phase as a break between 21 day fix and Insanity Max 30. (my H is doing the whole thing) It's the first real strength training I've ever done. You work a different area each day. The workouts are about 40-50 minutes long. The trainer is a little over the top but I was happy with the results.

[katinthehat]

I love the strong lifts 5x5 program. Easy, simple, but great results. Also, fast.