I'm one of those people that has always wanted to go to the gym, for many reasons I simply wasn't able to. Now there are no excuses to go, but before starting this, to be long journey, I want to ensure that I have a set workout routine.

I bought "The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding." I'm going by the routine that Arnold suggests. I will be doing Level I Exercise Program.

http://www.how2muscleguide.com/arnol...ybuilding.html

I will be doing 6-8 reps at 3-4 sets each. I need to build muscle, plain and simple. I wanted to do the 6 day workout routine for the best results, but I've read that every other day is better for muscle growth in beginners. My plan is to run 30 minutes at the end of every workout session(day), and run an hour in between workout days. Is this sufficient, or should I increase/decrease the time I'm running?

Now, on most days I will be going to the gym alone. Therefor, if I do bench presses, it won't be to the best of my ability since I won't have a spotter. Is there another workout, or combination of workouts that will aid me in receiving the same results?

Another issue I have is with the chin ups. Arnold suggests 50 chins, or until failure. My limit is one. I don't have much body fat on me, but at the same time, I don't have much muscle. Are there any workouts I can do instead of chin ups, so I'm able to build some muscle, and once I can handle 15+ than I will focus strictly on reaching 50 chin ups?

Any other advice that anyone can add to or take out of the workout from personal experience would be greatly appreciated.