I just started going to the gym again after a 2 yr hiatus. Its been three days and I am really sore I am planning on doing my legs today and my shoulders on friday.

I know next week ill still be sore. Should I take a break or try to work through the soreness but with less weight and maybe less sets/reps?

If your starting out I recon you should aim to do 3 or 4 days a week then step it up over a few months period or when you feel your current routine cant make you improve anymore without changing something. Again the amount of reps you are doin g and the weights should be just enough so you have to put some effort into doing it. Always increase your load in a baby steps kind of manner (tiny) otherwise youll think wow ive been at (say) 35kg for 6 weeks now ill up it to 50! Suddenly your body thinks man what is this and just hurts. These are very recent teachings just yesterday I tried to up my training and now both my arms hurt real bad! Theres loads of other sources where there is lots of good gym advice given, books and fitness mags are a good place!

Hope that helps!

Spark.

If you just getting back into shape make sure you're doing no more than 3-4 exercises per muscle group. I'd also make sure you're sticking to the major compound lifts (Barbell Bench Press, Incline Bench Press, Squats, Deadlifts, Pullups). I'd also recommend easing your body into a 4-day split by starting out with a 2 or 3 day split. A push-pull day works well, or even a front-back day works well.

You will need time to recover but I don't recommend taking a break. Just because your muscles are sore doesn't mean they shouldn't be worked out.

I'd be happy to supply you with a routine if you need it or a critique of your current routine. PM me.