Long and slow or Short and not so sweet?

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-10-2004
Long and slow or Short and not so sweet?
7
Tue, 05-11-2004 - 10:35pm
Hey guys,

I just got back from my workout (late, I know. but at least I did it) I am wondering about this...is it better for me to workout for less time and jog for half of it, or to walk as fast as I can but do it for twice as long. When I jog i get really tuckered out reaaaally quickly, and have to do it in intervals. I had been really slacking off on exercise for a long time before the last couple weeks, so I am not in the greatest shape. (I am starting slow) It *seems* to me that powerwalking for 40 minutes is going to provide more benefit than jogging for 20. Am I right here? or do you all think it evens out somewhere in the middle because of the higher intensity.

thoughts? opinions?

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-26-2003
Tue, 05-11-2004 - 10:42pm
Geez, I thought this was a dirty thread. I'm so disappointed.

I think the evidence is mixed on this. You have to work out at least at some minimum level to get some benefit, but then intensity burns more calories. Longer workouts build endurance. I usually go for a mix of hard short workouts and longer ones.

I bet someone else knows more about this.

Erin

http://www.GlitterMaker.com/ - Glitter Graphics
Mom
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Tue, 05-11-2004 - 11:09pm

LOL Erin =)

  Shawna-- Proud Cl for 100 Pounds or More to Go 

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-10-2004
Wed, 05-12-2004 - 4:28pm
Yeah I think you're right. I guess I just wanted to prove to myself that i *could* jog, ya know what I mean? I really felt good last night after those 40 minutes. And I definitely am sweating/getting my heart rate up from it. I don't mean a leisurely stroll! hehe I think the jogs are just burning me out at this point, so i am gonna keep on with the 40 minutes until my fitness level is up a little bit. thanks guys
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-20-2004
Wed, 05-12-2004 - 4:39pm
I can't really answer your question, except to say that when I exercise I do whatever pleases me. I don't know whether power walking or jogging is *best* in your situation, but I just think the important thing is to get some exercise in, and to do it (always) in a way that's most enjoyable to you. What would you like to do? I'd say, do that.
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-04-2003
Wed, 05-12-2004 - 5:27pm
I think either is fine, but you may get better results from the straight 40 minutes.
 
iVillage Member
Registered: 06-17-2003
Wed, 05-12-2004 - 8:56pm
You need to do what you will keep doing. You said that you don't feel good after jogging. If that is the case then would you keep jogging day after day? One thing you could do to work up to the jogging is to power walk for 5 minutes and jog for a few minutes then go back to powerwalking. sounds like you are doing great. sharla
iVillage Member
Registered: 05-10-2004
Wed, 05-12-2004 - 11:23pm
Aww thanks guys. I went for 40 again tonight. I don't what it is that makes the walking feel better; maybe it is just easier on my joints at this point or something? I think it's ok because i am still getting a good work out. I am going to do it either way. I was just curious which gave the best results. I am still shootin for the 5 days per week. I hope i make it!