Walk On, Rock On to a New You

Hi,

I'm new here so I haven't even thoroughly explored the podfitness program yet. But I just wanted to ask a couple questions if it's okay to ask something off your program.

I used to be an avid jogger. I loved running 3 miles about 4 times a week. But a knee injury (and age) put an end to my beloved running program. Now I'm working out at the gym. My primary focus is weight management with a secondary objective of body toning. My usual routine includes 30 - 45 minutes on the eliptical machine at a heart rate of 115 -120/minute. Correct me if I'm wrong but I've been told that 115 - 120/min is the fat burning range for my age, height and weight (50 yo., 5'5", 137 lbs.) Then I'm off to the weight machines where I do 2 sets of 15 reps on about 10 different machines...1/2 arms, 1/2 legs.

Here's my problem. I'm soooooo bored! Maybe bored isn't the right word but I'm skeptical I'm making the best use of my time to achieve my goals. I don't sweat like I did while running and I'm certainly not getting the euphoric kick that comes from breathing in fresh air. So it doesn't really feel like I'm doing myself any good and I feel like I'm floundering aimlessly. Does that make sense?

So, is there something I can do to perfect my workout routine? Is my eliptical program adequate? Are free weights better than weight machines? If so, where can I find a list of good free weight exercises (with instructions)? I really could use any advice I can get.

Hi Gail,

I haven't used the podfitness program so I can't answer any questions about that. However, I can answer general questions about fitness programs, heart rate training, etc.

The elliptical (or really any cardio exercise) can provide the same benefits as running. If you are used to running then you are probably used to working out at a higher level and to achieve the same results you would have to workout at a higher intensity on the elliptical too. To get the feeling you got from running you would probably need to be in the aerobic zone rather than the fat burning zone. I know I certainly wouldn't feel like I had a workout if I stayed in the lower zone. I am about your age and my workouts range from 130-160 depending on the goals for the day. 115-120 feels more like a warm up/cool down than a real workout.

I actually like a combination of free weights and machines. Both have their benefits. There are tons of different places online to find exercises. You can do a google search and find a bunch. Also try some of these links:

http://search.ivillage.com/search/ivillage?sk=ivi&restrict=ivillage&q=free+weight+exercises

http://www.stumptuous.com/cms/index.php

http://www2.gsu.edu/~wwwfit/strength.html

Good luck. PC