Can i keep it simple and get results?

kate2707
kate2707 Posts: 31
in Fitness and Exercise
So i like things simple. It helps keep me focused, but is it really possible to get results by following a simple exercise plan? For example if i did: squats, push ups, plank, lunges 2-3 x per week with some added cardio would i really benefit or do i really need more variety.

I find i stick to things better when they are simple (routines, not the actual exercises!), if anyone has any advice or suggestions for me it would be much appreciated!

Replies

  • Lisamar74
    Lisamar74 Posts: 114
    Why don't you get 30 day shred DVD? That way, it's only a 20 minute workout a day and I'm pretty sure you'll get good results from doing that alone. I'm doing it at the minute. It's hard and I'm hoping it's going to get easier but it's simple knowing it's just 20 minutes and works your whole body.
  • dad106
    dad106 Posts: 4,868 Member
    Squats, pushups and planks are fine but you are missing some key elements.

    If you really want to keep it simple, do squats, dead lifts, rows, over head press and bench press, plus some cardio.

    30DS as another poster suggested is nice, but it's more cardio then it is weights because most of the times the weights used with it are not heavy enough.
  • Determinednoob
    Determinednoob Posts: 2,001 Member
    Squats, pushups and planks are fine but you are missing some key elements.

    If you really want to keep it simple, do squats, dead lifts, rows, over head press and bench press, plus some cardio.

    30DS as another poster suggested is nice, but it's more cardio then it is weights because most of the times the weights used with it are not heavy enough.

    Plus a pull up variant or lat pulldown machine variant. Gotta get in that vertical pull! Stronglifts is a simple routine that uses these. 3 exercises one day and 4 the other. Or if you just want 3 per day alternate between these 2-3 non consecutive days per week.

    A
    Squat
    Bench Press
    Barbell Row

    B
    Deadlift
    Overhead press
    Pullup\lat pulldown variant
  • csuhar
    csuhar Posts: 779 Member
    As far as keeping the overall routines simple, I'd say go for it. I've been exercising with various programs since 2003, and I find that the simpler a program is for me (it's not going to be the same for everyone), the easier it is to keep up, especially if the rest of my life is in chaos.

    For example: Many people will work a specific portion of their body (legs / core / upper body) on a specific workout. Some people have plans along the lines of "on Mondays, I do upper body", and that works for them. In college, where my homework load was variable, I found this hard to do because I couldn't guarantee getting ot the gym on a given, so I made it simpler (for me) and did a whole body workout each time. That worked for me, I was able to keep it up, and I got results.

    Recently, I've simplified by going to a "no gym needed" routine because it's easier for me to do bodyweight work than to hope whatever gym I have access to has the machines I usually use.

    So do what works for you and what you can keep doing. If that means keeping the overall routine simple, then that's what you need to do.
  • LovePBandJ
    LovePBandJ Posts: 288 Member
    What do you mean by results? Weight loss or muscle building.

    To build muscle, yes! KISS! Just select the exercises that hit all of your major muscle groups, not just the exercises you like ;-) If you are after muscle building, you should do a little bit of research on protein and its role to building muscle.

    If weight loss is the result you are seeking, then you must track your food intake and set appropriate calorie goals. The cardio and weight training are not going to create the weight loss you want.
  • Rubie81
    Rubie81 Posts: 720 Member
    Bump, to read later.
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    It depends on the benefits you're looking for.

    In terms of overall health cardio (at least 3 x weekly for a minimum of 20 minutes) will lead to improved cardiovascular health. Add ind planks, lunges, squats etc will strengthen your core.

    I know some people who still do the old Canadian Military 5BX program for all 'round fitness.
  • RosaliaMarie
    RosaliaMarie Posts: 11
    I agree on keeping it simple. You know your body better than anyone. Keep doing your routine, and when it stops working (no inches or weight loss), change the routine to another simple routine.

    Maybe you need to work out differently than others, but I've found that when something works for me, I was foolish to change it.

    When you want to make changes, there are many fitness magazines that can give you some idea of what to add or subtract from your routine. Another source is the women on this board.

    Judith

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