Ep 1. Why Don't You Try Strength Training?

When high school student Hibiki Sakura stops at her local convenience store on her way back from school, she notices a poster featuring an anime character advocating healthy living and exercise. Feeling inspired, Hibiki decides to join a nearby gym but quickly becomes intimidated by the weight-lifting equipment and decides to quit.

Fortunately, her classmate, Akemi Soryuin, a veteran bodybuilder, happens to be at the same gym and offers to show her the ropes. At first, Hibiki is hesitant because Akemi's chiseled physique is a far cry from her own, but eventually gives in. Akemi takes her through the basics of weightlifting, including proper form and safety precautions.

Through her guidance, Hibiki learns the importance of a balanced diet in combination with exercise. Afterwards, Akemi even takes her to an all-you-can-eat meat restaurant, explaining that while exercising is important, so is fueling the body properly.

The following day, Hibiki returns to the gym to start her training, and meets the gym's sole employee, Naruzo Machio, who immediately attempts to recruit her into the gym as a member. Naruzo is a walking encyclopedia of fitness knowledge, which often leads to misunderstandings with Hibiki, who struggles to keep up. Naruzo explains the importance of different machines and exercises, and helps her set up a workout routine that suits her goals.

As the episode progresses, we see several comedic scenes of the girls working out, often struggling with difficult exercises and comparing themselves to each other. Along the way, they meet another gym-goer, Zina Void, a Russian exchange student who is studying abroad in Japan. Zina is also a skilled fighter, which results in some hilarious moments showcasing her raw athleticism.

Towards the end of the episode, Hibiki reflects on her progress so far, realizing that weightlifting can be fun and rewarding, but also challenging. She decides to continue her training, determined to become stronger and healthier.

Overall, the first episode of How Heavy Are the Dumbbells You Lift? does an excellent job of setting up the show's premise and introducing its quirky cast of characters. It's a lighthearted and entertaining introduction to the world of fitness and weightlifting, suitable for viewers of all ages.