How much cardio is enough?

Question

I started going to the gym again (it's been months since i've been back). I want to start out slowly, but actually make a difference. I was exhausted after an intense 15 minutes on the elliptical trainer. Then i did some weight training and another 20 minutes of SLOW walking on the treadmill (at only 3.5 mph). I think it's much easier for me if i just walked or jogged on the treadmill for about 30 minutes. is that not enough? i want to start out slowly so i dont wear myself out and get overwhelmed. i'm also trying to eat healthy too.

anyone have suggestions or tips?

Answer 1

You want to do 30 minutes of cardio a day. Cardio is any exercise that raises your heart rate well over 100 beats per minute - so swimming, fast walking, running, biking, rowing, etc will fit the bill. Make sure you're not basing your exercise on just the exercise level, but more on your heart rate. Your recommended target heart rate will vary depending on your age.

Look here : http://www.health24.com/fitness/Cardio/16-1371-2173,19285.asp

So based on these ranges, if you're not concentrating on the heart rate and basing your exercise routine on strenuously high levels, you could very well be jeopardizing yourself.

Answer 2

I read somewhere that with the lifestyle we have today (next to none exercise, fast food, etc) 30 minutes is not enough. It's 60 minutes to maintain your weight, and 90 minutes to lose. I think that's a lot, but then again, it does kinda make sense if you think about it...

Answer 3

it sounds like you should work on your endurance. First, try long walks,then power walks, then jogs, etc. While doing this, build up your muscle mass to increase your strength. Dont forget to eat a healthy balanced diet!

Answer 4

check out this site .. it will help you come up with a plan for workouts and eatingf etc ..

its spark people so it is free

http://www.sparkpeople.com/myspark/mysparkweight.asp?from=wm-BORN.2.WIN