Group: Beginners to Exercise

Created: 2012/01/01, Members: 970, Messages: 18927

Share and offer advice to beginners to the fitness world!

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Beginner needs help!!

awdriscoliv
awdriscoliv
Posts: 2
Joined: 2004/01/29
United States
2004/02/03, 12:22 PM
Hello,

I am new here, and have some questions. I am doing the 8 week beginners course from the site here, but I had a question about cardio, that is how much is needed/best? I really only want to lose weight and inches, and to tone up. Should cardio be an everyday thing, and how much/long? I have been reading the threads about the HIIT, would that be something I should do? Any help would be appreciated!!

Thanks,

Alfred
Shakkai
Shakkai
Posts: 142
Joined: 2003/12/05
United States
2004/02/03, 12:25 PM
Hi Alfred! I just wanted to say hello as I see this is your first post! I've heard mix opinions on cardio here... some say that in order to gain muscle you cannot do too much cardio, but others think that it is necessary as well. Either way, I don't think you can go wrong with at least starting the 8 week beginners course.
On a side note, I'm on my 4th week in the beginner's course and I am starting to notice differences in my body so keep that in mind when you get discouraged.
I wonder though, when do I become intermediate? After my 8 week course?
Good Luck Alfred!!
agamble
agamble
Posts: 1,029
Joined: 2003/09/22
United States
2004/02/03, 12:28 PM
When you say lose weight/inches, I assume that you want to decrease your bodyfat. If that is the case you should do cardio 3-4 times per week for 25-45 minutes. Or you can try HIIT 3 times per week for 20-25 minutes. Try this for 3-4 weeks and evaluate your progress. Increase or decrease as warranted. Also do not neglect the weight lifting and diet aspects of your program as these will yield the greatest results.
clandress
clandress
Posts: 94
Joined: 2003/09/21
United States
2004/02/03, 12:49 PM
I agree agamble.

First thing in the morning on an empty stomach every other day no more than 3 times per week for 20 to 25 min is a fantastic HIIT schedule.

I do mine on a treadmill but a jumprope, bike, jog, jumpingjacks, swimming (anything that can be incremented speed wise) will work fine too.

Lemme tell ya, lifting is great for loosing weight, but throw in some HIIT and a proper diet and youll see the inches come off FAST!!! Not to mention you'll be able to see the progress of your new muscle much sooner :)

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If your muscle wont allow you to do the last few reps, make your mind and heart do it. Your muscles will thank them later.