Hi all,
I've done some searching around in this forum for previous threads of this nature. Not sure if this should go here or in another thread. Sorry in advance if it's in the wrong place.

I was wondering if there are alternative exercises for strength training aside from weights (free and the gym machines). I do Pilates (Ab sculpting), 200 jumping jacks, 25 tricep exercises (I use the side of my bed and try to lift myself using my arms), 40 squats and 50 arm rotations. I also do those thigh lifts - 50 on each side. Will this develop muscles in the same way as using weights will or is this still considered cardiovascular? Your thoughts are appreciated. Thanks!

You'll do a little bit of good with that for a while, but your body will outgrow this and you will need to lift weights to get results. I guess the words I am looking for is that's a good start! Depending on what results you are looking for, you may or may not need a gym. I've seen some really great before and after pictures from people using The Firm and Gilad videos. Push TV is also something new you might want to look in to, or resistance bands. Strength training is good not only for your muscles and metabolism, but it is also great for healthy bones.

Thanks for the info!

have you tried exercise bands and tubes and stuff like that?

Hi Andrea, no I haven't tried them because I have a pair of ankle weights and I used them for um..3 weeks and they're still in the closet. I know I'm fickle when it comes to exercise equipment so I tend to use myself as much as possible.

You could look at www.stumpuous.com - she has a section on doing weights with household items. I think the squats, tricept dips and abs you're doing are great, but you probably need to add a few more things to work out the rest of your body. You've got a great start going though.

Resistance bands are cheap- less than $8.00 at Target or Walmart. They usually have some exercise instructions packed with them. If you go into the Ladies Who Lift forum and do a search using the keywords "resistance bands" and "Meg" as the poster, you'll find a workout that she put together for someone else a few months ago

Mel