Group: General Fitness & Exercise

Created: 2011/12/31, Members: 382, Messages: 54581

Various general exercise related discussions. Find out what it takes to reach your fitness goals through daily effective exercise. With so many options we try to find out what works best.

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time limits and advice

dwlawson123
dwlawson123
Posts: 3
Joined: 2004/01/05
United States
2004/01/05, 09:44 PM
Hey all. THis is my first post. I'm starting an exercise routine at three days a week. I'm 35 years old, 240lbs, and 5' 10". I need to lose weight and tone up. Specifically, I'd like to focus on my chest, abs, butt and thighs. (No bulk!)

I teach at a local high school and my schedule/my family's schedule only allow for workouts in the early morning. M/W/F I'm at the gym at 6 am. I have 35 minutes to get all the workout done... Today I did 12 minutes cardio (bike) and then did the inclined bench press 15 reps three times at 60 pounds, then bicep curls on a machine 15 reps three times at 40 pounds. Then it was off to the shower and out the door. TO be honest it was a complete guess as to what to do and when. I signed up for an "myFT personal exercise program" but there's no way I can get all of what's listed in that done in 35 minutes!

Here are my questions. If I focus on a different major muscle group each workout (today it was chest, shoulders, biceps), and include cardio for at least 10-15 minutes each time, how would you spend the other 20-25 each time? What groups would you suggest focusing on, and how would you exercise them? I realize that I indicated earlier what I want to tone up, but I don't know of specific exercises that will maximize my workout (and keep me within those 35 minutes!). If you can, please be specific, as I am an idiot and not familair with free or mechanical weights...

I do crunches on tuesdays/thursdays and lots of stretching, but M/W/F will be my gym days.

Also, should I start lighter and increase weight with reps? The opposite?

As for my diet, I've reduced fat, carbs (sugars), and portions in general. I'm eating more healthy snacks/light meals throughout the day, and I try to avoid carbs after 3pm. (The last was advice I got from Mr. Indiana 1997. At least I think it was 1997...))

Thanks in advance for any suggestions you could give me. They are truly appreciated...

DL