I can't run! What else can I do!

xXmimiXx

I’m currently doing the fat burn programmes on the machines at my gym…the trouble is I really want to lose weight on my legs but when on the treadmill I kind of just walk fast (I have an irrational fear of letting my hands off the bar..hmm…)

I just wondered what other machine will help me lose fat on my legs and eventually tone them? I know you can’t target lose weight but I don’t want to be spending a long time on the treadmill every night if it’s not doing anything.

Thanks

M

xXmimiXx

I’m currently doing the fat burn programmes on the machines at my gym…the trouble is I really want to lose weight on my legs but when on the treadmill I kind of just walk fast (I have an irrational fear of letting my hands off the bar..hmm…)

I just wondered what other machine will help me lose fat on my legs and eventually tone them? I know you can’t target lose weight but I don’t want to be spending a long time on the treadmill every night if it’s not doing anything.

Thanks

M

Jackie_W

How long have you used a treadmill?
Could it be that you are just new to it and that's where the irrational bar gripping is coming from?
If so, I'd get used to the treadmill first, then slowly let go - without an incline and go from there.

3babybeans

Try the elliptical. That thing uses the larger muscle groups in your legs & will tone them up nicely along with getting your heart rate up for a good calorie burn! Plus, you don't need to take your hands off of it (believe me...I understand...and the scar on my knee understands as well...:grumble: )

xXmimiXx

I've been using the treadmill for a long time, I'm never going to want to run on it! I need my hands on it anyway for my heart rate but I just don't feel much benefit.

I will do more on the eliptical.

Thanks! :happy:

BrenNew

Besides using machines, you could always try dancing to some fast songs.
That's what my main exercising is these days, what with the winter weather here in NH!
I dance to a fast oldies CD that my husband made for me with all my favorite old songs. It's fun, never depends on the weather, and I can also watch tv, so I'm never bored!
I used to have HUGE thighs and calfs, but, they really slimmed down! I'm forever staring down at my legs these days in amazement! :laugh:

Nlongenecker

Try biking (stationary at the gym). Does your gym offer a spinning class? It's an awesome workout I loved it when I was going to the gym. If you're looking for a challenge and something to burn a lot of calories this is it. The great thing is that everyone does it at their own level. Give it a try

iftcheiaf

For me, cycling class and elliptical are the best I've found for my legs. I just make sure I don't put the resistance too high so that I don't bulk up, but try to get them leaner.

xXmimiXx

Try biking (stationary at the gym). Does your gym offer a spinning class? It's an awesome workout I loved it when I was going to the gym. If you're looking for a challenge and something to burn a lot of calories this is it. The great thing is that everyone does it at their own level. Give it a try

Hey, yes I used to love spin. Unfortunately my current gym which is free to use as it's part of my living complex doesn't do classes...bum.

thanks for your advice, I'll spend more time on the bike and cross trainer from now on!

keiko

You're not getting the full benefit of the treadmill if you are holding on. Even walking outside your arms are moving. How fast are you walking? Since you need to get over your fear I suggest getting on at the lowest setting and start walking without holding on. You can do this! Then start increasing your speed. You don't need to run on it. But I think that after you conquer your fear and see how easy it is to walk without holding on you will want to try running.
I never thought I'd run on mine. That just sounded scary and dangerous. But the more I walked and kept upping my speed running became the next step.
Don't let your fear hold you back.

jessmomof3

Yep, love the elliptical!! Bump up the resistance to really feel the burn in your legs! Spinning or biking is great too!

Jess

Nich0le

there are several options...bicycle, elliptical, stair climber, DDR, aerobic classes like step or spin, run or walk outside, hike, or buy a heart rate monitor and ease yourself into letting go on the treadmill