Probably one of the biggest favors you can do for yourself, and that is to know your capabilities, limits before you engage in body building. Take note that body building is a strenuous activity and you would not want to end up with injuries in your pursuit of fitness.

To start off, you can always consult a doctor before you engage yourself in any sport, exercise, and muscle building activities. This is the most recommended way to know your physical capabilities. As a matter of fact your doctor will even recommend some exercises that you can engage in before you can do other strenuous activities. However, if you don’t have the time to visit a doctor and only have a limited time for workouts and would want to make the most of it then you can try this suggestion.

One way of gauging your physical strength is to literally engage in an activity. But do take note that you should not push yourself too hard most especially if this is your first time. If you are trying to gauge your limits with weight lifting, then you can try lifting a 20 lbs dumbbell and if you can lift it effectively and complete a whole motion then this is a good place to start. From there eventually make your way up and increase the weight or the increase the number of repetitions.

Various fitness programs including muscle building programs have different levels to go through. It is important to take your time in a level and not to force yourself towards the top. This is important since the level that you are in now will prepare you for the next, and if you move too fast then I doubt you can make it through the next level injury free.

Remember to always start slow since your body will need to time adapt. When it does adapt, then you can have more intense workout. Also remember that before and even while you are in the work out itself, you need to have a good diet. This is the base of all fitness programs and should not be ignored. Use it to your advantage and enjoy yourself in the process.