Walk / Run

Heidi_Maggott
Heidi_Maggott Posts: 18
edited October 1 in Fitness and Exercise
My gym contract is expiring next month, and I do not want to renew it, so I am thinking of starting a workout routine that is a bit more affordable (ie walking/running) . Does anyone have any tips on how to start this while avoiding injury? I am not the fittest person on the planet so need to start slowly. I am noticing flabby areas due to weight loss, and really need to tone up! I will also incorporate Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred into my routine, but I find it a bit difficult with 2 little kids getting underfoot. It will be easier to get out of the house on my own.

Also , do you think it would be worthwhile buying a bicycle? I do not need an expensive one, and buying a bicycle would be cheaper than a years worth of gym fees. I live near the beach and am in a safe area so criminal elements are not an issue.I am pondering what to do....

Replies

  • NyxDominique
    NyxDominique Posts: 271 Member
    All three are good choices.

    with a bike you would be working not only your lower body, but your upper body as well. You do work your core muscles to a lesser extent maintaining control of handbars.

    Yet if you run/walk with weights you could do the same thing just as easy.

    I find that riding a bike is more enjoyable, and I accomplish more as I go a farther distance. Its also nice to have the cool wind in your face ~.^

    Wish you luck on your decision
  • kepete
    kepete Posts: 268 Member
    Videos, walking, running and biking are great options. The biggest hurdle is deciding to put on your shoes and go. I set a daily goal and just do it!
  • RunningAddict
    RunningAddict Posts: 548 Member
    I love to run! =) not everyday is fun and there are days I have to make myself but I never regret doing it!
  • wozzy38
    wozzy38 Posts: 137 Member
    theres a great app to train for running..its called personal running trainer..It starts you off running throu10132576.png
    Created by MyFitnessPal.com - Nutrition Facts For Foodsgh interval programs..
  • jpswope
    jpswope Posts: 1 Member
    Heidi,

    Congrats on working to build healthy habits into your daily routine. I was an athlete through my early 20's and now I mid-30's, almost 40 pounds over my early 20's weight, 1 kid, and 1 on the way. I heard someone say the other day that this is hardest time in our lives! So the fact that you are working toward getting fit is to be commended!

    I have a couple of suggestions that have helped me. I have lost 10 pounds since I started training in July 2010, I didn't get real serious until about 6 weeks ago about nutrition and exercise, so I actually lost 10 pounds in 6 weeks! But here is what I am doing:

    1. Specific to the walk/run: I have a 6 minute cycle for my walk/run. 3 min walk/3 min run then 2 min walk/4 min run then 1 min walk/5 min run then 2 min walk/4 min run then 3 min walk/3 min run. That equates to 30 minute workout. If you want to add more, just add more cycles, this has been very helpful to get back into running. At first don't worry about how fast you are running, the important thing is that your are doing it for the amount of time you have pre-established for yourself.

    2. I cut out sugar and caffeine from my diet. Specifically cokes and desserts. I was drinking cokes everyday and very little water through the week. I have now reversed that, I might have 1 12 oz coke a week but normally not. This has been amazing on how I feel when I workout.

    3. My fitness pal, started last week and it has been awesome. I have never considered what I was putting in my body and it has been motivating to keep track.

    Good luck and hope this helps!
  • yamdad
    yamdad Posts: 17 Member
    I only do about 4 miles every morning and i really enjoy my walks. What i do is walk about 3.5 to 4 mph for the first 2 miles and then on my way back i run for a min or two to get my heart rate pumping and then walk again til i catch my breath and then jog again until im out of breath or my legs are burning. I keep doing that until i am done.
    I am able to jog a bit further now then when i started
  • kalcide
    kalcide Posts: 120 Member
    The couch to 5k plan is excellent for newbies.

    if you wanted to run. it starts with interval sessions of walking and running and slowly gets you running for 30-40 minsutes.

    there are plans on the web or if you have an ipod there are podcasts/apps available.
  • Heidi_Maggott
    Heidi_Maggott Posts: 18
    Thank you all for your help!
  • Heidi_Maggott
    Heidi_Maggott Posts: 18
    Decided to join Walk/Run for life. Joining on Thurs when my sinus infection has cleared up (hopefullY)
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