Exercise routines or just free choice?

Amy_B

I wasn't sure what to call this, so I hope it makes sense.

Do you have a set program or machine(s) you do on certain days -OR- do you have a wide variety of options and do what what you particularly feel like doing that day? Which works best for you?

_Schatzi_

I was JUST wondering this earlier. I'm trying to set up a good routine for myself, but at the same time I think having a variety of options has really helped. Personally, having lots of options gives me the ability to say, "ok, fine, you don't have to get on the elliptical.... there's a whole list... pick something else."

But I guess it comes down to what kind of person you are. Do you thrive from structure, or benefit from working more organically?

mfpcopine

I think it depends on your goal. If you just want to do a certain amount of cardio and strength training each session, some time on a machine and a few sets of push and pull compound exercises should be fine. If you want to do something like increase strength in a particular area, or develop certain muscles, I think you have to follow a routine so you know if it's working. If you're not getting any results in 6 weeks, 3 months, than it would be time to change.

You could have a core set of exercises that you always do, with extra exercises to be added if you have the time.

Just my guess.

meshashesha2012

yep everyday i have a routine. i cant just go in a gym all willy nilly. i need a plan but then again i'm pretty goal oriented. i think if i didnt have a plan i wouldnt push myself and wouldnt be as productive with my workout since i'd be spending half the time thinking OK what next. in general i only spend around an hour at the gym. i really dont have time to be goofing off

my current schedule is
Sun/Tues/Thursday - NROL4W + 21 minutes of either running HIIT or steady state cardio (versaclimber)depending on the lifting routine that day
Mon/wed/fri : 60 minutes cardio : 20 mins rowing, 20 mins versaclimber, 20 minutes treadmill
saturday : active rest day either 90 minutes yoga or 60 minutes walk to and from farmer's market

quill16

I go to a gym with a variety of options and I tried them all and came to what I liked the best and stuck with it. I started 3 days a week walking on the treadmill and pool laps. After 17 months I run 5 miles 5 days a week and do an hour of pool aerobics 6 days a week. I vary the treadmill speed and that is enough for me to keep it interesting (also TV to watch). Others may get bored with such a routine

LFiestan

mine is routine, but i try to have variations too and try to add strength training everyonce in a while or when i feel like it. For now my cardio is mostly walking and swimming (if i can)

taso42

Routine. There are tried and true ways of gaining strength efficiently. Why waste time dilly dallying?