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What do you do at the gym?
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NannyM
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| Wanting to go back to the gym but have no clue where to start. I have 40-50lbs to lose. I'm guessing I need good lighting and cardio routines? Anyone willing to share their routines or must-dos, please? |
Anonymous
| You might want to explore the class offerrings at your gym. Maybe do a cardio class (zumba perhaps?), a strength training class (like Body Pump) and yoga or pilates. |
Anonymous
| I would buy some sessions with a trainer and get a routine that is tailored to your needs and strengths. And then do group classes on top of that. |
Anonymous
|
I started exercising for the first time in my life about 4 mos ago. I'm working with a trainer on a regular basis, and he has helped guide me and teach me how far I can push myself and the best exercises to maximize my gym time. I now finally feel confident on my own, so in addition to the trainer, I've added some classes. When I work out on my own, I do 45min of cardio with a HR monitor, keeping my HR in the 160s, ALWAYS doing 15min of abs, and then rotating out upper/lower body weights every other gym visit. I'm going 5xs a week now.
My main focus has been weight loss and I will add more lifting of weights once the weight is off, so I don't injure myself working out carrying around a bunch of extra fat. |
Anonymous
| I'm a gym rat, and I can tell you that one way to prevent boredom and burnout is to switch up activities. Try not to do the same thing every day. Maybe run/walk on the treadmill one or two days per week (intervals are excellent to help you get in shape); take a spinning class and a body conditioning class, try yoga, pilates mat, or whatever else your gym offers. You'll probably like some activities more than others, but keeping some variety in your routine will help prevent injury and keep you interested. And whatever you do, please incorporate some weight training into your routine; it's so imporatant for overall fitness as well as weight loss. If you're not familiar with weights, I second the PP's recommendations to schedule a few sessions with a personal trainer who can help you get started; it's well worth it. Good luck and remember, fitness takes time! |
Anonymous
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Agree that you will need to learn different routines - to keep your body guessing and for your own sanity.
The three areas of fitness are really important - cardio, strength, and then stuff for flexiblity like yoga and stretching. You really need a balance of all three. I second the recommendation to work with a trainer if you can, or go to classes if you can't afford a trainer. Yoga, pilates, body conditioning classes will teach you a lot, and cardio classes like spinning or zumba will help you push yourself and keep it fun. |
Anonymous
As a gym rat, I have to say CONGRATS. That is really impressive. Have you seen results? |
Anonymous
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Follow up question from a different poster much like OP.
I just started going to the gym for the first time in years and have 40 pounds to lose. I am intrigued by some of the classes offered, but am afraid that I am not in good enough shape to even try them. Can I jump right in to the classes, or should I spend a couple months chained to the treadmill to at least get some endurance going first? |
Anonymous
You can jump into any class you want, but tell the instructor you are a first-timer and GO AT YOUR OWN PACE. Do not feel the need to keep up with everyone in the class. You'll get there eventually. |
Anonymous
Absolutely you can jump in, but agree you can either tell the instructor you're a newbie or just don't try to keep up with everyone. I've done a ton of classes and there is always a range - hard core in shape folks to people with a lot of weight to lose to pregnant women who modify certain things. I was incredibly intimidated to do yoga and I was totally fine. Most gyms know they are catering to a wide range of folks and always offer modifications and ways to advance. |
Anonymous
| Totally off topic, but I thought for fat burn, you are better off keeping your heart rate lower than 160s. Any PPs know if that is true? |
Anonymous
Try any and all classes. As pointed out, there is a huge range of ability/skill/strength. There are always modifications and you can always go your own pace. I've never met an instructor who wasn't happy to help out a new person. Try whatever looks like fun. I far more enjoy classes than just working out. Much easier to motivate myself to go! |
Anonymous
| Try classes - I was intimidated the first time I went to the gym, but I sucked it up and did a couple of classes. I found them to be fun and motivating. It has now been almost 22 years (can you believe I know exactly when I started really working out?!) and I've tried a ton of different things since then, but those classes were what kept me going at first. Good luck! |
Anonymous
I don't think so. I think the main reason for that is because you can exercise longer at a lower heart rate. For fat burn, I think intervals (sprints) are the best. |
Anonymous
Thanks! Yes, I have seen results. I've only lost 10lbs, though, but my eating is not the very best, so it has been a slow go, I have 20 more to go. The best results is my endurance and strength. I felt HORRIBLE the first month and yesterday did a 90min spin class and I was so proud to be able to finish. I would have had a heart attack if I had tried that when I first started. The very best part is how I feel, which is WONDERFUL and full of energy. I'm confident I will reach my weight goal by summer. |