Back in action after five months off

[Shmackey]

Well, I was on medication that caused "muscle wasting," among other things. Five months out of the gym, and I lost 12 pounds. Weak as a kitten.

Just went back to the gym for the first time. I figure I need to do a few all-body workouts to get my muscles and tendons back in the game. Just about passed out after deadlifts...

So, who's got advice for someone who was fairly serious but had to take extended time off?

[MAURER]

i'd say just do deadlift, squat, benchpress, military press, barbell rows, pulldowns, calf raises, and skullcrushers 3 times a week, going for about 10 reps of 3-4 sets, not going too close to failure and pretty slow on the reps, focussing on your form. just my 2 cents. good luck man.

[Tuna Fish]

'Sup Schmackey!

You've got the right idea. Just take it slow at first, you'll be back to your previous levels fairly quickly, so don't rush it and overtrain. Get the strength back on the basic exercises listed by Maurer....

Tuna