Obsession leads to action

I am 21 years old and work with a bunch of guys who are into the wonderful world of fitness. I stumbled upon this website and have become obsessed with it. So much that I actually worked out all weekend and joined up. Basically what I'm looking for though is some better upper body strength because I'm lacking. I've been all over these forums, reading up on routines, what to take and what not to take, what to do and not do...I have not become as disciplined as I want with the healthy eating part BUT I actually tried to follow some of the visual exercises. My problem is though when I go to the gym I always forget what part of my body I am working on and start on something else. I throw routine out the window. So I don't need to lose weight...if anything I need to gain(5'3;120lbs;"cute" muscle on my arms is how it's been described) and I have some goals for myself with strength and body build. I was wondering how I could stay focused on a certain part of my body. And is it good to use dumbbells and machines? Anyways...Any help would be appreciated...I know I was all over with this post but basically...I want to build my upper body...

Wecome to DBB.com!

If you've been reading all over I hope you understand that you need to workout your entire body to get the best results in your upper body.

With that said, find a routine and write down everything you have to do for that workout, exercises, sets, and reps, then check it off as you go about your workout.

Freeweights (Barbells and Dumbbells) as well as bodyweight exercises are much better than using machines.

Hi my name is Tam welcome to db....................

http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/womanwonder/

My problem is though when I go to the gym I always forget what part of my body I am working on and start on something else. I throw routine out the window.

 
Welcome,
 
The key is to write everything you do (and plan to do) down.
Make an 8-12 week plan and stick to it.
 
Decide in advance what exersices you want to do, and on which day of the week they should fall.
 
Record during your work out what weight you used, how many reps and sets, this will allow you to track your progress, and you will know better the next time you do those execises how much weight to start off with, if you need to add more weight,( if you completed all your pre perscibed reps and sets the last time, and added an extra rep or two).
 
I could not possibly keep my entire routine in my head plus the weight I used . I would be lost with out my log. You will advance much quicker when you track your progress, .

Not sure what you mean by staying focused on one body part but I would suggest logging workouts and pre planning so you do not miss body parts as you had mentioned that was an issue.
I would try a 5 day split, one muscle group per day, Chest, Arms, Legs, Back, Shoulders and mix some abs into the back and chest day maybe or on shoulder and chest day.
Machines and DB are great but relative to your fitness level and needs.  Usually machines are used until beginners get their conditioning, they help where as dumbbells leave you to use more stabilizing muscles. I use machines still, depends on the theme of my workout or how I feel.
Linda

Come Visit my websites! www.figureteam.com www.lindacusmano.com www.bodyrushpersonaltraining.com

Hey thanks for the replies! Basically I will be taking a notebook with me to the gym..I lose patience with not seeing results fast so I just start working everything...I'll try what you said to do Linda.
I guess a log wouldn't hurt...maybe help me get into a routine!
Thanks again!