Cardio

AshleySeay

I think people focus too much on cardio seeing as how you burn like twice as many calories in a high intensity circuit training session. If you don't know about it, Google "metabolic workout." My translation is moving from one exercise to another with no break between, keeping the heart rate elevated while strength training multiple muscle groups. I think this is the most effective way to tone quickly. Cardio is still very important. We need to take care of our heart. Don't omit the treadmill please! Just try something new you'll be surprised how effective it is. Try this:

Pick a muscle group, let's just say abs, cuz that's everyone's favorite ( )...

Pick 5 different machines in your gym that works abs, if we were at my gym i'd pick:
Ab Forward Push
Oblique Twist
V-Crunch Machine
Lying Leg Lifts from a Bench
And Decline Sit-Ups

Do 3 sets, with 15-20 reps per set.

Before each set, either run on a treadmill (and I do mean run, no sissy jogging), haul butt on a bike, jump rope (that's my favorite), or do jumping jacks for 3 minutes. you can alternate these to make it more interesting. A break is allowed after each set before the cardio for about 30-60 seconds.

Just so you guys know, I am an endless encyclopedia of workouts, these recommendations will keep coming so you stay in the gym and don't lose interest. For those of you without a gym, i will start posting home workouts soon.

AshleySeay

I think people focus too much on cardio seeing as how you burn like twice as many calories in a high intensity circuit training session. If you don't know about it, Google "metabolic workout." My translation is moving from one exercise to another with no break between, keeping the heart rate elevated while strength training multiple muscle groups. I think this is the most effective way to tone quickly. Cardio is still very important. We need to take care of our heart. Don't omit the treadmill please! Just try something new you'll be surprised how effective it is. Try this:

Pick a muscle group, let's just say abs, cuz that's everyone's favorite ( )...

Pick 5 different machines in your gym that works abs, if we were at my gym i'd pick:
Ab Forward Push
Oblique Twist
V-Crunch Machine
Lying Leg Lifts from a Bench
And Decline Sit-Ups

Do 3 sets, with 15-20 reps per set.

Before each set, either run on a treadmill (and I do mean run, no sissy jogging), haul butt on a bike, jump rope (that's my favorite), or do jumping jacks for 3 minutes. you can alternate these to make it more interesting. A break is allowed after each set before the cardio for about 30-60 seconds.

Just so you guys know, I am an endless encyclopedia of workouts, these recommendations will keep coming so you stay in the gym and don't lose interest. For those of you without a gym, i will start posting home workouts soon.

songbyrdsweet

Gah, I hate abs! :laugh: I have to force myself over to the stupid mat and kick myself to do the bare minimum lol...I have no idea why, I love doing everything else, but I hate being stationery to do abs. I do loooooove circuit training though.

You'll be a great help here! I love exercise physiology but the prescription aspect isn't as exciting for me. I think it would be great if you could post some workouts for beginners since we have many members who are new to this lifestyle and need something lower impact. :flowerforyou:

mrsyac2

Gah, I hate abs! :laugh: I have to force myself over to the stupid mat and kick myself to do the bare minimum lol...I have no idea why, I love doing everything else, but I hate being stationery to do abs. I do loooooove circuit training though.

You'll be a great help here! I love exercise physiology but the prescription aspect isn't as exciting for me. I think it would be great if you could post some workouts for beginners since we have many members who are new to this lifestyle and need something lower impact. :flowerforyou:

I enjoy circuit training alot - I like everything being cramped together then im so sore afterwards--