Every day, I would nervously walk by the free weight section in my gym. Beefy dudes and hard-core lifters were always flexing in front of the mirrors.

I felt out of place and intimidated, so I avoided the free weights.

Sometimes I would try the machines, but I didn't know how many repetitions I should do and at what weight.

Now that I'm a trainer, I never want anyone else to feel like I used to about lifting weights.

Intimidated. Overwhelmed. Clueless.

If you haven't been working out or aren't sure how to start weight lifting, join me for the next six weeks as we begin with the basics.

Strength training is so good for you – and it's vital to your health as you age.

It doesn't have to be a long, overcomplicated process.

We will focus on one movement each week – that's it!

This week, I want to start with variations of a push-up.

Push-ups work your pectoral muscles and arms, and they are the muscles you use to push open a door, lift objects, or get up off the floor.

I want you to do ten push-ups three times this week on Days 1, 3, and 5. On day 6, I want you to walk, ride your bike, do some gardening, or do another light activity. Try to move for at least 10-15 minutes.

In the video below, you will see several variations for push-ups. You can do them standing against a wall, counter, stairs, on your knees, or on your toes.

If you can't fit in all of the days, that's ok. Some exercise is better than no exercise.

Want to be a part of this six-week journey? Sign up for my email list below!

First of all, could my facial expression be worse?!? A quick tutorial on how to do a push-up and variations for all skill levels.