Both are excellent programmes though. For a beginner, I'd probably recommend Rippetoe's over Wendler's though, as it's less complicated.
I think that's true. But you can get apps for both that basically remove 100% of the logistical faff. So my reasoning was more that it streamlines for pure strength rather than a mix of strength and hype trophy? Although I freely admit this us much more your area than mine!
I started lifting properly using Rippetoe's programme and recently tried out Wendler's. My experience was that Rippetoe's works well even if you can only do it twice a week, so if your training time is limited then I would go with Rippetoe's. I think there is a beginner version of Wendler's around as well. I did try Wendler's twice a week too, but didn't think that it was as good for progress and Rippetoe's. You're right though, there are apps and spreadsheets around that will calculate all your weights for you and allow you to hit the ground running. From the point of view of learning the lifts, Rippetoe's book is invaluable though.
Thanks! Definitely love the app idea but I am hoping my school's library will have a copy. We have a sports institute attached so I will go and ask the PE teachers for some advice, armed with your very helpful ideas
The book you want is 'Starting Strength' by Mark Rippetoe. His website is here: http://startingstrength.com/ and the book is also available from Amazon. A basic overview of the programme can be found here: http://startingstrength.wikia.com/wiki/Starting_Strength_Wiki If you Google Starting Strength spreadsheet you will find a few of them to download. They can calculate your weights (including warm up increments) for you, to make life easier. As a comparison, here is some information about Jim Wendler's programme: https://www.t-nation.com/workouts/531-how-to-build-pure-strength http://www.jimwendler.com/2011/09/531-for-a-beginner/ https://www.t-nation.com/workouts/beyond-531-program-1-1
