[psalm40]

I think having the pull-up bar really helps. My theory was, "If I'm going to put up with all this crap (daily work-outs + severe diet change), I'm going to at least try to do it 100%."

I bought a pull-up bar off Amazon which bolted to my basement rafters with a little help from the local hardware store. There is really nothing more humbling than a pull-up, or lack thereof! I have heard some negative reviews of the "door frame" type of pull-up bars.

As for free weights....it depends on how strong you currently are. I am not strong (6'1" 188lbs) and I use 15 lb to 25 lb dumbells currently. I am only in my second week. My collection only goes to 35 lbs so I anticipate having to get a 45 lb set as well.