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Input a negative weight?!?!?!

tomgbernard Posts: 29 Joined: 2005/05/18	2005/06/09, 09:33 AM I have searched these posts and the concensus is to input a weight of "0" on exercises that require own body weight such as reverse calve raises and chin-ups. My gym has a Chin/Dip assist machine where the weight you add "SUBTRACTS" from your own body weight and makes it easier to do chin-ups. My question is - Do I enter a negative number (starting from "0") or is everyone wrong about the starting weight of 0. Since all of the posts concerning the input weight have not been from an actual moderator or other person of superior knowledge, a staff reply would be greatly appreciated.
flyonthewall Posts: 1,823 Joined: 2005/01/18	2005/06/09, 10:02 AM Although I'm not a moderator or a person of "superior knowledge" I'm going to give you my 2 cents anyways...take it or leave it:). I use an assist machine for Chins/Dips and what I do is subtact my weight from the weight used (or I guess vice versa)--so I weigh 150lbs, I use 100lb weight, therefore I'm lifting 50lbs, next set I use 90lb, so lifting 60lbs. Conversely, you could just input the weight used-which is probably more consistant, since all your really trying to do is track your progress. The key is to keep to one method of recording. -------------- Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there.
flyonthewall Posts: 1,823 Joined: 2005/01/18	2005/06/09, 10:13 AM Sorry, one more thing to add. The post concerning inputing a value of 0 are typically referring to things like sit-ups, push ups etc. Since there is no weight involved except body weight. Once you start adding weight, like holding on to a 5lb plate while doing crunches, then you'd input 5lbs. In the case of an assist machine, you are still using a wieght. With a chin up, there is no way I could do them without the assist, i.e. pull up 150lbs, so the assist simply allows you to lower that weight. Now I'll stop rambling....
tomgbernard Posts: 29 Joined: 2005/05/18	2005/06/09, 03:00 PM Thanx
flyonthewall Posts: 1,823 Joined: 2005/01/18	2005/06/09, 03:44 PM Thanx for the info or thanx for stop rambling*lol*:big_smile: Happy to help!
Artemis-75 Posts: 208 Joined: 2005/03/25	2005/06/10, 08:05 PM Fly - great point on the assisted exercises! I tried entering a negative weight - isn't possible - so I left it at zero. I like your idea better as you'll be able to see progress! Very excellent suggestion.