What constitutes as 'strength training?'

Hey guys! Hope you're all doing well.  I had a quick question...

So I know that I'm 'suppose' to do 2-3 days of strength training per week. The problem is that I really don't like just doing like lifting weights or really anything with weights. I have this DVD of Billy Bank's Ab Bootcamp. It's basically just doing a bunch of ab work outs. I was wondering if I could use that as my strength training as I am trying to do it at least every other day.

Also, if I decide I'm sick of that, I was just wondering what exactly can be used as strength training for the week. Does it have to involve weight training or can it be just abs exercises or maybe like leg and thigh exercises, I'd much rather do that kind of thing...

Thanks for any help!! :)

Strength training is the use of resistance to muscular contraction to build the strength, anaerobic endurance and/ size of skeletal muscles.

Strength Training does not always mean lifting weights it could be using your own body weight to train a muscle. As long as there is resistance used. Classic ab work IE (situps, crunches, etc )uses your body weight as resistance. Pushups, adduction and abduction of your legs all body weight all resistance.

Just keep in mind that depending on your goals you can only go so far with training using your own body weight and that you will need to challenge your muscles, it is the natural progression.

Melkor has posted some great stuff on this subject if you search forums.

I used to be the kind of person who tried to get by doing as little exercise as possible. I own free weights, they don't excite me.

Turns out I love weight machines. I love being able to up my weight 5lbs every week, just to have that instant gratification that, scale or not, my workout is getting me somewhere.

I also like pilates, which I believe is considered strength training, but mostly using your own body, and gravity, as resistance.

Lifting heavy, challenging weights is the best kind of strength training. I love it.  Lifting heavy with free weights is my favorite kind of exercise. I wish I could do it every day! It's the best way to build muscle, which helps raise your metabolism. Also it helps strenghten your bones, which is really important for women! And it just makes me feel like a badass.... specially since I'm the only young lady at my gym in the weight room doin deadlifts like a pro :]