Starting Exercise Program - Cardio or Strength First?

[jd]

I've been reading the HLSG posts for quite some time, but haven't been posting because I haven't been exercising. I have been focusing on cooking and eating better through WW and CL, and have lost 30 lb with about 10 more to go. Yippee! I'm getting up the motivation to start an exercise program, since I may actually be able to see the toning now (I have to believe that there were muscles beneath that 30 lb)!! I'm not ready to commit to 3-5 cardio per week and 3 strength training per week right away though. My preference is to start strength training as I will be able to see results faster, but wonder if cardio is a better way to start. Is there a 'right' way to start?
Sorry for the longwindedness and TIA!

[LGBurns]

I'm no expert but I think you would actually see results faster with cardio than weight training. Am I right about that? Anyone know?

[Laura]

Jeez...it's such a toss up. You may speed up your weight loss with cardio, but I see faster results in toning with strenght training. You definitely need both. The added bonus of strength training is that the muscle you build will raise your metabolism. But I am biased. I really enjoy weightlifting and have to push myself to do my cardio workouts. I think as long as you are consistent doing something, you will see results. The best exercise program entails both. Sorry to be so wishy-washy.

[kwormann]

Bob Greene, Oprah's trainer, suggests you dont start a weight training program until you are comfprtable (and addicted) to a cardio program. The you ad weights! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Kim

[MrsReber]

I had done cardio workouts for years because I always thought I'd hate weight training. Well,I reached a point where that last 10-12 pounds would just not come off (or STAY off) no matter what. At the point, I began a weight training/cardio program. It was about 40 minutes of weights (at your own level, don't go crazy when you first start- wait until you get the feel of it) and then I'd do 25-30 minutes of cardio. Within 6 weeks, I was firming up and down one size and about 12 pounds less than when I started. You will see results with cardio and it's good to start there, but the weight training really helps you trade in some fat for muscles. The muscle helps you burn more calories, even at rest. If you're new to an exercise program, best to start off slowly. The mental results are just as great as they physical results. Good luck! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[emilycat]

I would go with the cardio to start off -- the calorie-burning benefits are much greater, and those last 10 pounds should come off much more easily (congrats on the first 30! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif )

I can't tell you, though, how important weight-training is...it strengthens your bones, and speeds up your base metabolism -- once you replace muscle with fat, the muscle will burn more calories than the fat.

It's essential to do the cardio, though, because without it, you won't replace the fat with muscle, you'll just add to it.

If you can, I'd try fitting in a couple strength training sessions each week, in addition to a couple cardio workouts...thus getting the best of both worlds!

Emily

[robinf]

You may want to try interval or circuit training. It's a good way of getting both cardio and strenghth training done. Basically, you alternate between a cardio workout and weight work. The May 2000 installment of the Good Moves series explains circuit training in a little more detail.

Good Luck!

[jd]

A belated thank you for your recommendations. Sounds like I need do both, so will start with a bit of both. I'll just make sure that I don't demotivate myself by biting off more than I can chew, so to speak. Thanks again!

[Sandy1]

If you're prepared to work out at home try checking out the "Firm Workout" videos..they offer an incredible selection. And you need a minimal amount of equipment. They incorporate both aerobics and weight training in most of their videos. They range from beginner to advanced on each tape; adjusting the movements dependent on your level. If I sound like an advertisement; it's only because I went from size 14 to size 8, incorporating Cooking Light food and The Firm videos.
Check them out at www.firmdirect.com (http://www.firmdirect.com)
Sandy.

[bossy]

I agree with Sandy - the firm is a great way to go - you can get both aerobics and weight training at the same time! They have a Basics series which is for beginners although you can dive into any of their tapes as long as you start off with really light (or no) weights and stop when you need to. Drink your water too http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif