WARNING: Make sure that the Adjustment Knob (9) is fully inserted into an adjustment hole in the Seat Frame (4) before using the weight bench. ADJUSTING THE BACKREST The Backrest (8) can be used in a declined position, a level position, or one of four inclined positions. To adjust the Backrest, pull out the rear Adjustment Knob (9) as far as possible. Move the Backrest to the desired position, and then release the Adjustment Knob so that it engages one of the adjustment holes in the Adjustment Bracket. WARNING: Make sure that the Adjustment Knob (9) is fully inserted into an adjustment hole in the Adjustment Bracket (5) before using the weight bench. 5 9 Adjustment Holes 8 9 7 9 STORING THE WEIGHT BENCH To store the weight bench, place the Wheels (13) in the base bracket on the weight rack included with the HIDDEN GROVE furniture. Lift the Rear Stabilizer (1) so that it rests between the uprights. 1 13 Base Bracket Uprights 10 EXERCISE GUIDELINES THE FOUR BASIC TYPES OF WORKOUTS Muscle Building To increase the size and strength of your muscles, push them close to their maximum capacity. Your muscles will continually adapt and grow as you progressively increase the intensity of your exercise. You can adjust the intensity level of an individual exercise in two ways: • by changing the amount of weight used • by changing the number of repetitions or sets performed. (A “repetition” is one complete cycle of an exercise, such as one sit-up. A “set” is a series of repetitions.) The proper amount of weight for each exercise depends upon the individual user. You must gauge your limits and select the amount of weight that is right for you. Begin with 3 sets of 8 repetitions for each exercise you perform. Rest for 3 minutes after each set. When you can complete 3 sets of 12 repetitions without difficulty, increase the amount of weight. Toning You can tone your muscles by pushing them to a moderate percentage of their capacity. Select a moderate amount of weight and increase the number of repetitions in each set. Complete as many sets of 15 to 20 repetitions as possible without discomfort. Rest for 1 minute after each set. Work your muscles by completing more sets rather than by using high amounts of weight. Weight Loss To lose weight, use a low amount of weight and increase the number of repetitions in each set. Exercise for 20 to 30 minutes, resting for a maximum of 30 seconds between sets. Cross Training Cross training is an efficient way to get a complete and well-balanced fitness program. An example of a balanced program is: • Plan weight training workouts on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. • Plan 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as cycling or swimming, on Tuesday and Thursday. • Rest from both weight training and aerobic exercise for at least one full day each week to give your body time to regenerate. The combination of weight training and aerobic exercise will reshape and strengthen your body, plus develop your heart and lungs. PERSONALIZING YOUR EXERCISE PROGRAM Determining the exact length of time for each workout, as well as the number of repetitions or sets completed, is an individual matter. It is important to avoid overdoing it during the first few months of your exercise program. You should progress at your own pace and be sensitive to your body’s signals. If you experience pain or dizziness at any time while exercising, stop immediately and begin cooling down. Find out what is wrong before continuing. Remember that adequate rest and a proper diet are important factors in any exercise program. WARMING UP Begin each workout with 5 to 10 minutes of stretching and light exercise to warm up. Warming up prepares your body for more strenuous exercise by increasing circulation, raising your body temperature and delivering more oxygen to your muscles. WORKING OUT Each workout should include 6 to 10 different exercises. Select exercises for every major muscle group, emphasizing areas that you want to develop most. To give balance and variety to your workouts, vary the exercises from session to session. Schedule your workouts for the time of day when your energy level is the highest. Each workout should be followed by at least one day of rest. Once you find the schedule that is right for you, stick with it. EXERCISE FORM Maintaining proper form is an essential part of an effective exercise program. This requires moving through the full range of motion for each exercise, and moving only the appropriate parts of the body. Exercising in an uncontrolled manner will leave you feeling exhausted. On the exercise guide accompanying this manual you will find photographs showing the correct form for several exercises, and a list of the muscles affected. Refer to the muscle chart on page 12 to find the names of the muscles. The repetitions in each set should be performed smoothly and without pausing. The exertion stage of each repetition should last about half as long as the return stage. Proper breathing is importan...