Cardio question

181 rep

AlumniLawrence, KS

A few years ago I had an elliptical and used it fairly often. Haven't done any sort of work outs in years now and just started at ATF. I've only been on the elliptical to warm up for the weight circuit and 5 minutes kicked my butt. I've got to get back in the cardio groove. Any suggestions for working my way back up to something useful? Would the treadmill be better to start back on? I knew I was out of shape but didn't realize it was this bad.

87 rep

MemberGlendale, AZ

IMHO, there is no good or bad way to start up with cardio. I myself had to take some time away from exercise. When I finally made the time for fitness, I too found myself out of shape. Where I was once able to run for miles at a time, I could barley finish a quarter mile run.

Your machine is easier on the knees and I see no reason to use the treadmill as an easier start up unless the resistance settings are to hard on yours. Just keep at it and do it as often as you can. I started back up at 2-3 days a week for that Mt. Everest of a quarter mile. Eventually I built up my endurance to be able to sustain higher speeds and longer distances.

Set a goal for each week and follow through. When your body tells you it's ready, increase the goal and don't give up untill you reach it. Push your self! No pain...No gain! (unless you have a heart condition or similar health issue of course!)

Good Luch!

103k rep

CorporateHastings, MN

One of the best things you can do for your cardio & to increase your endurance & stamina is to string together as many consecutive workouts as you can with a solid recovery strategy & to be consistent.

Fueling your system with the proper nutrition as well as implementing a total-body strength training strategy will help as well (it all kind of works together).

It will take time, but if you’re consistent & patient, you’ll get back to where you were & where you want to be.

Tony

27k rep

AlumniBettendorf, IA

Start be setting some goals. Maybe your goal is to be able to do 20 minutes in a month at a good pace. Then you might set it up so you try to increase your time by a minute or two each time you are on there in order to reach your first goal. Good Luck!!!!

22 rep

MemberFloyds Knobs, IN

Thanks. This information will help.

26k rep

Trainer

Welcome to Anytime Fitness and Anytime Health! Are you able to hire a personal trainer even if it is just for a few sessions? This may be a good idea for you to get started on a proper workout regimen from the start so you aren't spinning your wheels or wasting your time. Plus you will have the support needed to reach your health and fitness goals and ability to have one-on-one attention while doing it. Like others said, you will want to do a combination of total body strength training, cardiovascular training, flexibility training, and proper nutrition intake.

19 rep

just start out slowly and steadily increase length and intensity

19 rep

The treadmill is a good place to start. Just remember to start out slowly and continue working your way up.