[lynn85]

I really, really, want to get in shape but have no clue how to do it. I have this weird mentality that a good workout means I am completely exhausted and have pushed myself to the limit. Otherwise, I feel like it was worthless. This mentality makes me not want to go to the gym. On top of that, I just don't know what to do. Should I stick to walking/running on the treadmill for 30 minutes, or should I do 10 on the elliptical, 10 on the treadmill...etc? I joined a gym since it is too cold outside and I have barely gone. I used to like going to the classes there, but my school schedule this semester conflicts with the times.


Any suggestions for something simple to start with? How often and long should I go for? And do I need to be in pain to get a good workout?

If anyone here is knowledgable about fitness, I would love your suggestions. I feel better when I workout and have more energy for my nursing classes, but I'm stuck in a rut!

[nightmare]

First work out when and where you have time! if you have a'window' when you can go to the gym then go to the gym.If you only have spare time at home then think of an exercise prog. at home.I can't go to the gym so the gym comes to me.I have hand weights that I use and various exercise bits and pieces that I use in the house.I like to watch TV in the kitchen so ,during the adverts(3min)I hop onto something and do a 3 min.workout.So far,with diet,I've lost 30 pounds and it doesn't cost me anything.Most of the equipment I got from charity shops(check the stuff thoroughly before buying!!)

[nspeed22]

The key to working out effectively is to have a plan. Don't go to the gym without a plan of action, otherwise you'll either do too much or too little. If you firmly tell yourself "I'm doing 20 minutes on the treadmill", you will more likely reach that goal. Its also very important that you have a small preworkout meal about 30 minutes prior to workout. This should be a combination of complex carbs that will not spike your blood sugar too fast and a decent amount of protein. Minimize or eliminate fat preworkout because it stays in the system long and will weigh you down. A good option may be a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread and fruit. Having a small meal postworkout is also a good idea if you are looking to gain muscle. This meal should be a simple carb that will be digested quickly and again a moderate amount of protein. Fat will slow the absorption of the post workout meal so avoiding it is optimal. A banana and whey protein shake is a good option. Or some skim milk if you don't want to buy whey. As for the workout itself, I don't know if you have tried weight training, but it will do wonders for you combined with cardio, rather than doing cardio alone. Look up a workout routine on line, you will get many options for men and women. Stick to a routine you like and fit in your cardio sessions on off days or right after you lift. Lifting will improve your cardio workouts (and vice versa), and significantly boost your resting metabolism. Start a novice weightlifting routine and progress slowly. I am very into bodybuilding and working out/nutrition, so feel free to email/pm me if you have any questions. Good luck and hope this helped!

[jahra]

If your gym offers Nia or Zumba it might be a good way
to get started. Zumba is a latin based dance fitness
class. Its fun because you don't feel like you are
exercising and you don't want to stop!

Nia is a fusion fitness exercise form. It blends modern
dance, martial arts and healing art forms. In the same class,
the instructor gives direction for 3 levels for the same exercise.
You can select which level is right for you-3 being the most
advanced. Nia has a concept that exercise should be a pleasure and
not a dreaded activity.

If you do a search on You Tube there are examples of Zumba.
If you go to Google videos there are Nia instructions from
Debbie Roses, the founder of Nia.

I am giving these two as examples of exercise you can do at
home or while traveling. Or take class when you have the time.

There are many more, find what you love to do!

As for the gym, great advice from the posts above. I found it did not work for
me in school or when working.

Good luck with your fitness goals!

Jahra