Does The Gym Work

satemoses

I have been going to the gym for a month. I only use the stepper, elliptical and bike. I'm up to 30 minutes. I'm not burning enough calories. I love to walk around the lake for 2 hours early in the morning. How can I use the gym to help me lose weight and burn more calories? By November I will no longer walk around the lake so the gym will be it.

stylistchicky

Try some strength training. Using that big ball for balance to engage your core. You can find videos on youtube for tutorials. I noticed my body changing when I started lifting....lightweight 30 and under 3 x's a week.

LazSommer

only if you and your diet do

lessismoreohio

Below is my humble experience and observations on whether or not the gym works:

I joined a gym last year and I use it one to two times a week for 45-60 minutes each time. I only use the gym for strength training (lifting weights). Each time, I do ten exercises (both upper and lower body) x three sets each X 15 repetitions + 10 repetitions +5 repetitions.

This strength training has helped me by:
1. Burning calories,
2. My clothes fit better. My overall weight is not going down dramatically, but I look better (say friends and co-workers) and I feel better. I believe I've lost some fat while toning existing muscle (I used to be an athlete and there was some muscle there buried under the fat).
3. Strength training has decreased or eliminated pain that I had in my knee, elbow and shoulder from years old sports injuries or other injuries. This is what surprised me the most about my strength training.

VintageFeline

Exercise for health, calorie reduction for weight loss. Your weight loss is highly unlikely to come from the gym. Sure it gives some nice bonus calories to eat but the reality is weight loss happens in the kitchen. You have to get on top of that to see results.

Cardio for cardiovascular health and bigger calorie burns (yay food) and resistance training (bodyweight, supersets, lifting heavy) for aesthetic goals and muscle retention during weight loss.

lorrpb

How many calories do you think you should be burning? Remember, weight loss happens in the kitchen; fitness happens in the gym.

Sarah4fitness

Like most things in life, you get out of a workout what you put into it. 30 minutes of exercise is not going to help you break even if you're used to doing 2 hours of similar exertion.

I agree with the posters above who say to incorporate resistance into your workout. Most gyms have personal trainers available too, to help you create a program that will help you progress safely. Use the resources!

CincyNeid

Most gyms are you only get out what you put in.

But before most we can give advice what are you looking to accomplish?

Muscle Toning? Cardio Endurance? Overall Fitness?

Cycling, Dreadmill, and stair steppers are good cardio but do little for muscle. Resistance/lifting will help burn a few extra calories.

DresdenSinn

As stated by previous posters, you should start some kind of progressive resistance training to gain strength and some muscle size. The more you have, the more calories you will burn. Start with bodyweight resistance exercises, then maybe resistance bands, and finally move on to weight training when your ready to advance.

jgnatca

IMHO the gym is where you start reaping the benefits of the weight lost. I've improved my flexibility, my endurance, and strength. I learned new Zumba moves. My blood is flowing and there is a new blush in my cheeks.

Make sure whatever you are doing in the gym, you are enjoying it.

Because you will lose your weight from your food choices.