AmyBetty

If your gym is any good at all, they should be going through an appropriate program with you. Check with one of the staff there. I hope they are able to help you - whilst I could say "do this, this and this", unless you are shown correct technique, the risk of injury, and possible lack of results would not make it worth…

It's really important that you use good technique when doing the plank. Although it looks easy, you can get a sore back if you aren't using the correct muscles. Pull your bellybutton up towards your spine and engage your core muscles. Squeeze your buttocks and tuck your tailbone under slightly so you aren't arching your…

At 5ft2 and 54kgs I wanted to tone up so started doing weight training. I am now around 58kg's and the heaviest I have ever been. My advice - DITCH THE SCALES! Particularly for such a small number you want to lose. Whenever I jump on them I feel terrible about myself when I see that number come up. But you have to think…

I second the boxing. Also a rowing machine beats all the cardio equipment IMO. Works out cardio, arms, legs, back, abs....

Personally I prefer a non-flavoured protein so I can add my own flavours to shakes, or I can add it to my meals (although the texture is horrible). I use Natures Way which is available in the vitamin section of the supermarket (I'm not sure what country you are writing from so I'm not sure if you would have the same brands…

Just drink 1 cup before you eat anything. Taking into consideration standard main meals and snacks (or 6 small meals), you'll get up there in no time. I also use a bigger 350ml cup so I don't have to remember those extra couple of glasses.

I have just bought a Polar HRM and I LOVE it! I only wear it when working out, and I've been suprised at my HR and the calories I have been burning. I find the average calories burned rates on here are not at all accurate for me. I have a Polar FT4 which is probably more of a basic monitor, but it does exactly what I want,…

I just did a Zumba class this morning and my HRM says 610cal. I work fairly hard and get into it with a good sweat going.

Just how big is this "bump"? It may just be skin, which can often be impossible to get rid of if you've lost significant weight. No matter how great your abs are underneath, if there is still skin/fat there it will not tighten. It could also be a hernia? Particularly because it pokes out when you flex your abs. That's why…

I saw a funny thing posted on another topic a few days ago. It was something like "the gym is such a vain place - most people are more concerned with how they look than what anyone else is doing". It's pretty funny if you actually take a look at the weight training section, most eyes are on the mirror ;>) I LOVE weight…

LOVE a rowing machine! Personally I think it's the best all over body workout compared to any of the machines. You are working your legs, butt, core, back, arms, chest, EVERYTHING! The only thing is they are also a bit harder to maintain a good pace for a long period - which is also a good thing as it will make you work…

As others have said- for your first time start with low weights. My instructor actually starts first timers with pretty much just the bar and a couple of kgs. So, don't expect a huge workout from your first session. It's more to get you familiar with the moves and correct technique. I'd definately say give it a try - at…

You are not alone in feeling like this. I have been procrastinating so much lately about my diet, exercise, study. There are always excuses as to why you can't do it today - I'll start tomorrow. Or if it's the weekend - there is no point in starting today, I'll wait until monday! My biggest advice is to make a photo/goal…

It's a tricky problem you have as most cardio involves the legs moving. I am training a friend who recently had a knee dislocation so she's in the same boat as you. We do lots of punching. Mainly with light dumbbells. You can mix up the types of punches you do - punches, hooks, uppercuts, overhead punching. I've noticed…

Another good one is the 1000rep challenge - I haven't been on here long enough to know if anyone else has posted about it. 10 exercises, 10 reps, 10 sets. Your 100challenge sounds good, but it's all lower body. 1000rep is good for a total body workout. Have fun!

I'm not sure what country you are from, so you may not have the same ones there. I love Natures Way Natural Protein - it is a whey protein and does not contain any sugars/flavours. You should be able to get something similar in the vitamin section of your supermarket or health food shop. The "shakes/drinks" designed for…

It sounds like you need a workout buddy! Make set times/days to exercise together, even if it's just for a walk. You will be more motivated to go as your friend will also be missing out if you decide you can't be bothered that day. Also joining a gym/women's gym/training group can help you remain motivated if you know…

Hi, I'm a veggo too (sometimes I slip up). Thanks for being honest with your food diary. I'd be adding some great snacks like almonds (dry roasted taste awesome with nothing bad added), try adding some green leafy veg's to your stirfry's such as baby spinach. If you are having toast in the mornings, mushrooms and spinach…