What is the best way to start lifting weights What muscles, reps, sets to do and how much Thanks

Here is my take on all of this...

I've been lifting for quite some time, my personal goal has been to gain mass (bulk up, get big), but I have also been trying to tone my muscles as well. Here is some advice regarding which goal you are looking for...

1. Find your maximum weight

To do this, simply try doing standard exercises such as the barbell curl (for arms), bench press (for chest), the squat (for legs), and deadlift (for back) with as much weight as you can do for only one rep.

2. Exercise for Strength and Mass

If your goal is size, you need to use 70-80% of your Maximum Weight, do 3-5 sets, each consisting of 4-10 reps. Be sure to go slowly, and to use proper posture to prevent serious injury. And remember to allow plenty of rest after workouts. It has been argued as to how many times per week to exercise a certain muscle group. I recommend working a certain group (for example, your arms) two or three times a week, allowing plenty of rest time to heal the muscles properly. This applies for Strength/Mass and for Tone/Definition.

3. Exercise for Tone and Definition

If you are looking to Tone your muscles (giving them shape, and definition), you should use 40-60% of your Maximum Weight. This time do 5-10 sets consisting of 10-20 reps. Again, be sure to go slowly, and to use the proper posture and rest.

4. Nutrition

There's an old saying in bodybuilding, "If you can't eat, you can't grow". Eat 6 small or medium sized meals a day. Take in as many calories as you can. They have a many supplements on the market that can increase your results incredibly. You need to take a protein supplement (powder is best). This will provide the proper protein during workouts, and in turn will make your muscles grow. Protein is food for muscles, so to speak. You can also take Creatine which will increase size by delivering water to your muscles, and will speed up recovery time. If you are having a hard time eating properly, you can take a Weight Gainer supplement (also recommend powder over pills). GNC will provide you with all of this, but you can also find supplements at Vitamin Shoppe and even your local Wal-Mart. Supplementing is not a MUST, but more of an option, but this will help you grow.