My stepson joined the swim team and practices started this week, so I joined the gym. I now have 3 nights a week with 1.5 hours to go workout. What is the best way to use that time? How much cardio, which machines? Weights?

How do you guys spend your gym time?

Thanks for any insight.

Angie

I would recommend hiring a personal trainer for a few sessions and working free weights instead of machines. I'd also recommend reading the book "New Rules of Lifting for Women". Body for Life is pretty good as well but I like the NRLW book a bit better.

I think its always a great idea to start walking. Adding weights is also good for toning but walking would be a great start that is what I started doing and its relaxing if you ask me.

I also think walking is the way to begin!

Thanks ladies -

I did a half hour on the bike the other night then 20 minutes on the treadmill. I find the weight room intimidating, maybe a session with a trainer is what I need.

Angie

I just finished reading New Rules last night and how I envy your opportunity to work out! You won't need 1.5 hours to do the workouts int the book, I wouldn't think but I'd recommend getting a copy from the libary and reasing it through.

I was doing 90 minutes of cardio this summer and split my time between the elipical and treadmill. Sometimes I would do the bike to change things up. If you can bring yourself to enter the weight room, using the free-weights will be great for you.

As you start out, just do something you enjoy that has little risk of injury. Listen to some good music while you walk and before you know it you will be going longer! As time passes, you can branch out to weights or classes. If you're not very experienced in the gym then some sessions with a personal trainer will do a world of good.

Good luck!

I personally prefer to do 30 min cardio warm-up, 30 min weights, 20-30 min cardio, 10-15 min stretch and meditate. I vary the cardio between treadmill, recumbent bike, and elliptical. Whatever cardio I do for warm-up, I pick a different one after weights. As far as weights, my "wellness coach" started me with the leg press, chest press, arm curl, back extension, tri-cep push down (or dips), and abs.

Basically though, you just want to find what works for you. What do you enjoy? What can you stick to? Try to keep a well-rounded workout and change it up so you don't get bored!

I started at the gym just over a couple of months ago. My instructor started me on just cardio for the first month which included the stationary bike, the treadmill and eliptical. I then progressed to some basic resistance floor exercises. I would say start small and build up, you will soon notice your fitness improving.

Swim, unless the pool is being used by the swim team. Swimming works out all kinds of muscle groups, you don't have to worry about sweating & when you're done, you can go in the sauna or hot tub.

Indoor track, weight room, balance ball, all are good. Trainer will help you the first time, work with you to write a plan to achieve your goals. Have fun!