So out of shape/breathing issues!

Chantrea717

I have not really been active since I was a sophomore in high school and that was about 8 years ago, which is how I got here! But when I do cardio it does not take long before I start huffing and puffing, I even wheezed at one point. I grew out of my asthma many years ago and am pretty sure it is just because I am so out of shape! What breathing techniques do you use while in the treadmill or elliptical?

1pandabear

I hope you will stay safe and not overtax your heart while you are building back your fitness and the habit. Also I hope you take an inhaler along if you need one. I just have to slow down so that I can breathe. But also I set my pace so that my body doesn't overheat because I have a lot of insulating fat, and I use the elliptical for an hour so I create a lot of heat. I drink water throughout.

Chantrea717

I make sure not to push myself too hard, that's what always made me quit before so I am starting out slow, but about 20 mins on the elliptical and I start getting breathless and sore, resistance at 15-20 and SPM only between 80-115 at highest speed. I know I have to work my way to a more intense workout, but I don't know if I am pushing myself hard enough. Is it better to have a more intense shorter workout or a less intense longer workout?

hill8570

Take it slow, and listen to your body. Push it hard enough that you'd have trouble holding a conversation, but no harder...wheezing is pushing too hard. Your aerobic capacity will increase relatively quickly, so just bump it up a bit each week. Something like a 5 minute warmup, 20 minutes of pushing, and 5 minutes of cooldown will give you excellent results over time.

Chantrea717

Thanks for the advice! I will try to do that!