[alamortsubite]

By the same token, a lot of sedentary people with no lifting experience might be intimidated by the idea of going to a gym, and the cost and even just the step of getting to a gym are additional barriers they have to overcome.

Getting started with a body weight routine or simple bands or kettle bell setup at home has huge advantages.

[anotherevan]

Just a note that swinging kettle bells, à la the simple and sinister book caused medial epicondylitis for me (buggered up the tendons in both my elbows). This is taking a long time to heal and limiting options on other exercises I can do that involve even a moderate grip.

My recommendation would be to rent a rowing machine and try that first.