Cardio question
 

I've always wondered which is better for fat loss: exercise videos/dvds or walking/jogging outside or on a tread mill. My brother claims I'd lose weight faster if I joined him in the gym on the treadmills and not the step aerobics class I like. I also do videos at home when I don't feel like going to the gym.

Is he right? :?:

Mel

Hi Mel. I'm not a doctor. (I don't even play one on TV. :D ) But any exercise you do that gets your heart rate up for a sustained period of time is a good thing. It sometimes helps to vary the exercises, just to prevent boredom and to possibly use different muscle groups. But you need to do whatever you enjoy doing, otherwise, you're more likely to quit after a while. The only thing that you might want to watch out for is the strain on your knees and other joints. Some people do better without the step aerobics because of the strain to the knees. Personally, I do better walking at an incline at a fast pace, because jogging hurts my knees.

Enjoy the workouts (as much as possible)!

Robin

Thanks Robin!
that makes sence about doing what you like because I did try the treadmill and found it boring but I like the music and the dansy feel of my class.


Mel

It's definitely advisable to do several different exercises. Does your step tape get you to utilize your arms as well? If so, that's good. But if it's only working on your legs, then it would be good to balance it out by doing something involving your arms. Personally, i do aerobics for 30 minutes, then the tread mill for 30 minutes. The aerobics works out my arms, legs, abs...pretty much everything. And then the tread mill just keeps my heart rate up and works my legs. I prefer walking fast on an incline as well...jogging hurts my knees. But you have to do something you enjoy, else you won't be able to stick with it. So good for you for finding something you like :)

I agree about doing what you enjoy. There is nothing worse for your willpower than dreading your workout, and eventualy you will stop doing it! Just take care of yourself and do what you love and the weight will come off. But I dont think working out in a gym as opposed to walking/jogging outside, or working out in your own livingroom will make you lose more weight. It all depends on you and if you are committed to the cause. GOOD LUCK! :)