Does your workout work?

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Does your workout work?
1
Thu, 07-28-2005 - 12:51pm
Does your workout work?
Sweating your heart out in the gym but getting nowhere fast? Niall Murphy explains why....
Go into any gym in the world and you'll always meet the same characters. Despite our cultural differences we automatically fall into certain athletic sub-divisions. There's always a frenzied lunatic, frantically pounding the treadmill, sprinting at the machine's top speed for a few fleeting minutes. At the opposite end of the aerobic spectrum is the plodding, enduring soul, slowly cycling for what seems like an eternity.

So who's having the most effective workout? Or are they both wasting their time? The answer lies with the individual; your exercise programme should be a reflection of your physical aspirations.


The body has two primary energy sources: fat and carbohydrates. When you exercise at a long, low intensity, your body isn't rushed and can take time to metabolise and burn fat. So a lengthy, steady paced, walk, cycle or swim will gradually build up your aerobic stamina while also burning fat.


But this type of exercise is not the most favourable preparation for a competitive tennis or hockey match. If you're planning more vigorous activities then your workout should mirror this. More intensive activities like this mean you should go for shorter bouts of exercise, which will force your body to use carbohydrates to produce energy rather than fat.


Instead of setting yourself chronological targets (like spending 10 minutes on the treadmill), select a distance (1km, 2km, 5km) and make an effort to complete the course in a decent time running at a fair pace. Use this as a benchmark, and set yourself a goal of equalling or bettering your previous time. You'll soon see a dramatic improvement in your fitness.


Before embarking on your new quest for weight loss and increased fitness you should consult your gym instructor. Make a list of your goals (be honest!) and design a programme around them. Evaluate your progress every 6-8 weeks and make the relevant adjustments.


http://www.ivenus.com/health/fitness/File_32120000828173628.asp

~IslandGirl



::: Jump for Joy ::: Summer's Here :::


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iVillage Member
Registered: 04-09-2003
Thu, 07-28-2005 - 6:54pm
Thanks for posting that! I like when I'm doing something right and I didn't even know it. lol

Gretchen


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