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Getting in Shape

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Posted by: squeaky

It's that time of year again, where everyone makes a resolution to get in shape, and by February they forget all about it.

Well...I'd like to try and stop that!

I resolved to stretch every major muscle group at least once a day and to walk at least 4 times a week. I will probably also either buy an exercise ball to do ab exercises with, or some sort of exercise video.

I don't so much want to lose any weight as I want to get in much better shape. I want to be toned, not flabby! I've gained 5 pounds since October, and I know it's all in the middle!

So, post here if you want to share your story!

If we continue to post here and support each other then maybe we won't be as inclined to drop our resolutions so quickly!


Posted by: kdx200chick

Great idea on the post Squeeky! I definately need the support. My goal is to walk 5 miles 4 times per week. So far so good (I began 2 weeks ago!). The weather is nice so there can be NO excuses for me to "fall off the wagon" this time. I walk a trail that goes up, down and through canyons. Going up these hills gets my heart pounding super hard and I can feel the burn in my calves....I'll check back in next week!

good luck everyone in attaining your goals!

Petra


Posted by: bordrshane

I worked out about everyday for a year and got in great shape. This was great, because it helped my back alot. Then I met my girlfriend and gained 20 lbs of beer and pizza. Im just now starting to go back to the gym to get my back in better shape. I also traded in my 250f for a 125, so I gotta get back down to about 170lbs.


Posted by: squeaky

Well, keep us informed as to your progress! We'll push you!!


Posted by: RM_guy

This could be cool. I started working on my weight before Thanksgiving. My wife has some medical problems that forced her to cut down and it's a lot easier if both of us diet and exersize. I have only been watching what I eat by sticking to low/non fat foods, no more munchies at night, stay away from candy dishes at work, etc. I've lost 11 pounds, down from 222. I figure that was pretty good considering it was over Thanksgiving and Christmas.

A couple of weeks ago I started some resistanse training. Nothing more than an old Bull Worker I had laying around but at least it's something. I'm not much for going to the gym...too boring. Shoveling snow, moving & splitting firewood, etc works better for me.

I'm hoping by Spring I'll be in the 180's and it will be like I added 10 hp to my bike!!


Posted by: MXGirl230

We are back on our gym program too. We did 5 days a week for a long time...then slacked off. This is the first week we are back 100%.
We do lower body mon, wed, fri along with two 20min cardio sessions. Then on tue, thu we do upper body and one cardio session.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by RM_guy
This could be cool. I started working on my weight before Thanksgiving. My wife has some medical problems that forced her to cut down and it's a lot easier if both of us diet and exersize. I have only been watching what I eat by sticking to low/non fat foods, no more munchies at night, stay away from candy dishes at work, etc. I've lost 11 pounds, down from 222. I figure that was pretty good considering it was over Thanksgiving and Christmas.

A couple of weeks ago I started some resistanse training. Nothing more than an old Bull Worker I had laying around but at least it's something. I'm not much for going to the gym...too boring. Shoveling snow, moving & splitting firewood, etc works better for me.

I'm hoping by Spring I'll be in the 180's and it will be like I added 10 hp to my bike!!


Awesome Dave! This is my first week of walking, and I've gone on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday so far. I'm really starting to enjoy it and my dog loves it!

Over the holidays I ate like a hog! But now I'm eating that Kashi Go Lean Oatmeal for breakfast, it's really good for organic food! Then I'm eating fruit twice a day at work for snacks, instead of cookies or candy. I've been eating a salad with every lunch and dinner. And if I get hungry at night, I'll eat a piece of wheat bread with peanut butter on it, or cheese, or something like that. I've been doing that since the 2nd of this month and I feel better already.


Posted by: RM_guy

Yeah, I have to step up the exersize. I bought my wife a real nice treadmill that does all kinds of stuff and she loves it. I find it boring and difficult to stick with. I have a Health Rider in the garage with an inch of dust on it that is the only thing I can seem to tolerate. Maybe it's because it's more like riding a dirt bike. It helps if I've got a good CD playing too.


Posted by: kdx200chick

It's Saturday and I am going for my5 mile walk again today!!!! My husband and daugher are also going to go...Very motivating!!!! Can't get my son out of bed.... he's fifteen...


Posted by: squeaky

Awesome! Glad you have someone to go with you! I can't go for my walk today, it's raining and is supposed to all day...

But...I did go out line dancing last night and was there for about 4 hours...probably about 3 hours worth of dancing total! Definitely a great workout!


Posted by: MXGirl230

We made it to workout 5x this week! Yay!! Now we just have to continue


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by MXGirl230
We made it to workout 5x this week! Yay!! Now we just have to continue





Posted by: Sandjunky

I don't have a body by Jake... I have a belly by cake!

About 8 months ago my wife and I joined the gym and we went 5 days a week for 3 months. We both saw excellent results. I was actually running 3 1/2 miles for 30 minutes twice per week, which I never thought I would or could do. Well, one thing after another started to keep us out of the gym for a couple of weeks and the routine just died. Now I'm twice as flabby as I was before I started. I'm about to join the weight loss challenge at work. Wish me luck.


Posted by: Bandit9

I lost 25lbs since last Jan. It is pretty cool. The only problem is that it has become expensive. I have to buy new springs b/c now my suspension isn't working good. Also all my riding gear doesn't fit. I guess it is a good problem to have, but it still is a pain. LOL!


Posted by: squeaky

Well, I did my first workout with "Billy Blanks Ab Bootcamp". HOLY COW!

I'll admit that I probably only did 75% of the workout, I'm going to have to work my way up. But my abs are burnin now, in a good way!

That and I can workout from the comfort of my own living room, so it's much more convenient! I'll be sticking with this workout along with my walking!


Posted by: matt-itude

when i work out I cant loose but 5 or ten pounds in six months. I however started to watch what I eat and more so how much and lost almost 10 pounds in 2 weeks. I felt a little hungry at times but when I would really think about it I wasn't truly hungry. I just wanted to eat (bad habit). I learned a lot about nutrition from borrowed diabetic literature. and i found by learning to watch the amounts and regulate it was just self control I was lacking. like one piece of cake and a couple small scoops of ice cream instead of 3 pieces of cake and a whole bowl of ice cream. do those things with exercise and you can loose the pounds really fast. after a couple weeks you find yourself very comfortable with less food.


Posted by: Bandit9

All my weight loss is due to a new eating schedule. Really simple. First, I starting eating a biscuit or two every morning for breakfast. I never used to eat breakfast. But it is real important to get your metabolism going. Second, I stopped eating anything after 6pm. I used to drink 5 cokes a day. I have cut that back to 2 a day. Drinking lots of water. 1/2 gallon during the winter and 1 gal + during the summer. I rode a lot of miles. Very intense riding for like 50-80 miles at least 3 weekends out of the month for the whole year. Just one good intense workout a week riding my dirt bike and a smarter approach to eating has done the trick for me. 25lbs in a year without doing hardly anything different. Hope this helps someone.


Posted by: kdx200chick

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bandit9
All my weight loss is due to a new eating schedule. Really simple. First, I starting eating a biscuit or two every morning for breakfast. I never used to eat breakfast. But it is real important to get your metabolism going. Second, I stopped eating anything after 6pm. I used to drink 5 cokes a day. I have cut that back to 2 a day. Drinking lots of water. 1/2 gallon during the winter and 1 gal + during the summer. I rode a lot of miles. Very intense riding for like 50-80 miles at least 3 weekends out of the month for the whole year. Just one good intense workout a week riding my dirt bike and a smarter approach to eating has done the trick for me. 25lbs in a year without doing hardly anything different. Hope this helps someone.

I like the water suggestion.. I've heard that if you drink a large glass of water before each meal, you tend to eat less. I also agree with the NOT eating after 6pm rule. Our bodies are usually less active in the evenings so there isn't a chance to burn those extra calories so not eating after 6 is a great solution. I am a true believer of eating breakfast, a hot lunch and a smaller dinner (sandwich, salad, etc.) This is how they do it in Europe and they seem to have less of a weight problem than we do here in the U.S.


Posted by: Sandjunky

Another good tip is to eat 5 small meals a day instead of 2 or 3 large ones. When you work out you will be much hungrier because your metabolism speeds up. Don't get discouraged if you only lose 5 lbs. because you are losing fat but gaining muscle, which weighs more than fat. The scale is not a good measure of progress unless you have a LOT of fat to lose. Good luck!


Posted by: 91KDX

Howdy,
I have recently started a new work out, mostly it consists of pushups, situps, chin ups, and running. I leave for the Marine Corps Basic Training in August so I am trying to get in shape and work up a tolerance. I plan to work myself up to running 8 miles a day or more in the morning, 100 pushups, 300 situps, and 20 chinups. I think all of these goal are feasible. I cant lift weights at all, I find it extremely boring. I live and work on a farm so I have a pretty good work out each day already. I thought about changing my diet, but I think if I change my eating habits I will find myself getting hungry when I am busy doing something that I cant stop until its done. So I continue to eat when I have time. I have although stopped drinking soda. All I drink now is water, apple juice and orange juice. Before I leave in August we will be in full swing of Bailing straw in our area, and that is an awesome work out all in itself. I should be in pretty good shape before I leave. No offense, but I laugh at all you people who are paying to go to a gym to get the same work out that I am getting paid to do. I kill two birds with one stone and get a bigger sense of accomplishment. Has anyone else got any suggestions about what else I can do to get ready? Thanks for the help.

Benjamin
P.S. A girl who can line dance and likes DB's, is a keeper


Posted by: tx246

i dont get it at all. i ate like a pig all through the holidays trying to gain weight. i wanted to hit 190. the day after new years, i started working out/dieting with a goal of 175lbs. i havent seen that weight in 12 yrs. im 40 and in better shape than most of my buds but the "experts" say for my height i should way 155-160 which is insane.

since ive started ive biked every other day at least 10 miles on pavement or dirt. on days not riding the bike, ive been running 3 miles at 10 min miles. a little upper body lifting on days that i run. i do this routine 6 days a week. i drink 80% water and 20% tea. i have had one coke since the first and only one beer. i eat a bit of fruit for breakfast, a light lunch usually soup, and a light dinner. i have to be eating at least 50% less than i was and everything is healthy. i have had fries once and no fast food at all.

here is what ive accomplished so far:

good
better energy level
legs are stronger
lots of improvement in cardio. resting heart rate went from 72 to 53

bad
ive lost a whopping 2 lbs!!!!

i dont want to hear muscle weighs more than fat. my body fat scale says nothing has changed.

im doing the calorie math and it isnt adding up but dont know why my body isnt responding. i expected the cardio to bounce back quickly and it has. im tired of being a fit person in a body that i want 15 lbs lighter.


Posted by: Bandit9

Patience. Just stay on course, and you will get where you want to be. Your body is burning up all the stored fat right now, so it won't appear to be doing anything, but it is. Just stay focused on the goal.


Posted by: squeaky

Well...I wanted to walk last night, but with the wind chill it was 15 degrees outside. Brrrrrrrrr...So, I slacked off for the evening!

I agree with eating smaller meals throughout the day. I constantly snack on fruit or something healthy in between meals, that way I don't overindulge during my meal. During the day I also drink lots of water, except for my morning coffee and Diet Cherry Coke with lunch.


Posted by: YFZRob

Patience is sooo key here! My bike was my motivating factor to lose weight. I knew I needed to drop down, but I didn't do enough about it until I bought my RM250. I was 236 and had been slowly getting there since 1997 when I graduated high school at 195. I tried so many things and never could stick to it, until 7 months ago.....

I started to count calories. I know it's a pain in the arse, but it WORKS! In years past, I always tried things like low carb, low fat, ect, but never counted calories. I started taking Trim Spa X32 and restricted myself to a 1500 calorie a day diet. I only excercise MAYBE once a week except for about 20 minutes of squats, push ups, and crunches every night during commercials. Well, I instantly lost 15 lbs. I think it only took 3 weeks!!! This was the motivation I needed, especially since excercising is boring as hell to me.

The loss slowly tapered and I had a few plateaus, but now 7 months later, I am down to 193! 43 lbs in 7 months still shocks the hell out of me. Now fully suited up, I'm just over 200 lbs on the bike, not too much for the stock suspension to handle, so I see it as saving myself $600+ on suspension. On the negative to it, like someone else mentioned already, I had to buy new riding gear, which sucked, and I think I may need to go down more more size AGAIN on my pants in the near future if I keep losing. I would like to be 195 in all gear, so I figure another 5 or so will get me there.

I figured if I lost 40+ lbs my endurance level should rise naturally with it. NO! I get about 3 laps around the local tracks and I'm about to die. SO, I am slowly working into tread mill jogging 1-2 miles and mountain biking 10+ miles a couple times a week.


Posted by: Bandit9

Riding the bike is the best exercise. Just ride and ride HARD every chance you get. It is the intensity in the riding that is the most beneficial.

Even at 195lbs with your gear, you are still too heavy for stock springs. Springs are only $200 front and rear. Changing your springs is very easy and you could do it in less than an hour. Your riding will improve greatly.


Posted by: MXGirl230

Since we have been hitting the gym again now for 2 weeks. Hitting cardio everyday and twice on lower body days. I'm noticing that my exercise indused asthma is "improving". The doc switched my meds out and they are working MUCH better. Hopefully, by the time riding season is in full swing it will be under control. That's usually what kills me racing, my asthma kicks in and I have to slow down and breath. Which sucks...I still have a long way to go though.


Posted by: HajiWasAPunk

TX, 2 lbs in 3 weeks is not bad (especially the first 3 weeks). Those body fat scales can be inaccurate, particularly for picking up small changes. You WILL gain muscle as fast or sometimes faster than you lose fat at first. If you want a better measure of body fat, use calipers and measure your waist, back, back of arm (tricep) and back of leg. I wouldn't even check it but once every 3 or 4 weeks though.

Also, if fat loss is your goal, you need to eat 5 small meals instead of 3 meals (but keep the total calories the same). I don't care how few calories you're taking in, split into 5 meals and you'll have better results. The second your body picks up that you're cutting calories, it shuts the metabolism down and the best way to combat that is more meals of smaller amounts.


Posted by: kdx200chick

Well I'm back on track (well, not the track....I wish it was the track....just the trails...well, not THOSE trails. Just the walking trails!) starting today.....I've been SICK SICK SICK!!!! I feel like I am so far behind schedule because haven't worked out since Monday.....Aaargh!!!


Posted by: YFZRob

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bandit9
Riding the bike is the best exercise. Just ride and ride HARD every chance you get. It is the intensity in the riding that is the most beneficial.

Even at 195lbs with your gear, you are still too heavy for stock springs. Springs are only $200 front and rear. Changing your springs is very easy and you could do it in less than an hour. Your riding will improve greatly.


Will it make that big of a difference? According to race tech's online calculator (which asks for weight WITHOUT gear), at 193 lbs (which I am now), I should be using a .436 fork spring and stock is a .43. In the rear I should be using a 5.26kg spring, yet stock is a 5.2 on my 05 RM. Those figures get even closer to the stock springs once I get to my goal weight of 188. The 05 RM250 was sprung stiffer than most others. So, would it really help to go up to the next spring interval? At 188, rounding to the nearest spring puts me to stock. Right now, I would round up, and be going a tad stiff on the next rate up. Also, fully suited up the rear sag when stock was only 103mm, which I have slightly adjusted to 100mm.

I definitely know that riding is the best excerise....it's just frustrating when you cannot get more than 3 laps in before fatigue starts to take over and you lose focus on your riding technique. That's when I'll end up getting hurt.


Posted by: squeaky

I did Ab Bootcamp twice so far this week and walked once (last night). I am starting to feel better already, and I'm only two weeks into it! I feel like I am starting to conquer the route I walk, which has two pretty strenuous hills. I believe after a few more times I'll be ready to double my route, which has some more hills.

It's amazing how much energy I have!


Posted by: Bandit9

Quote:
Originally Posted by YFZRob
Will it make that big of a difference? According to race tech's online calculator (which asks for weight WITHOUT gear), at 193 lbs (which I am now), I should be using a .436 fork spring and stock is a .43. In the rear I should be using a 5.26kg spring, yet stock is a 5.2 on my 05 RM. Those figures get even closer to the stock springs once I get to my goal weight of 188. The 05 RM250 was sprung stiffer than most others. So, would it really help to go up to the next spring interval? At 188, rounding to the nearest spring puts me to stock. Right now, I would round up, and be going a tad stiff on the next rate up. Also, fully suited up the rear sag when stock was only 103mm, which I have slightly adjusted to 100mm.

I definitely know that riding is the best excerise....it's just frustrating when you cannot get more than 3 laps in before fatigue starts to take over and you lose focus on your riding technique. That's when I'll end up getting hurt.


Nope, your springs seem to be the right size for you. Looks like you lucked out with your RM. Although, I am sure different tuners will have different techniques.

3 laps and your tired? Something isn't right with that.


Posted by: YFZRob

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bandit9
3 laps and your tired? Something isn't right with that.


Well, tired to the point where I begin losing focus on my technique.....I'm a track noobie. I've been a trail rider for years, particularly on sport ATVs, so I've not needed the endurance abilities in any of my past riding.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bandit9
3 laps and your tired? Something isn't right with that.


Sure there is...everyone has different endurance levels. I'd be tired after 3 laps too, because I don't have the endurance of someone who rides a track regularly.


Posted by: squeaky

Well, I did o.k. last week.

I walked a couple of nights and did Ab Bootcamp once! I need to do more, but with my work/school schedule it's tough!

I have been eating MUCH better though, avoiding pretty much all junk food (except for a couple of chocolates).

How about everyone else?


Posted by: adam728

I'm getting on the fitness train here too. Started running and walking last week, along with situps/pushups 2-3 times each day. Hopefully today I'll get joined up to a gym (and actually go). Friday's goal was to join a gym, but the closest one to me is a 24-hour card-pass one, and there's only someone there Mon-Thu 2-8. I want to check it out before making a final decision on which gym. And I am definitly doing WAY better on the eating thing now. I spent all of Nov-Dec basically on the road, eating horribly. Now I'm trying to make up for it and sticking to healthier foods. Who would have known that I actually like yogurt? I sure didn't....

As for 3 laps and getting tired, really depends on the track too! I've ridden little tracks where 3 laps is less than 3 minutes, and I've also ridden where 3 laps might be 10+ minutes (where I'll start getting tired if it's rough).


Posted by: MXGirl230

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
How about everyone else?


My endurance is finally getting better...stupid exercise induced asthma DOES not help at all Noticing improvements on the weight equipment too...finally getting back to where I used to be a couple of years ago.

Phil is also noticing improvement also. He just wants riding season to get here soon!

We have mostly stopped drinking pop (or soda or whatever it is in your region!) There are some things you just can not drink without pop though...We never were big on junk food or candy and stuff so didn't have to worry about that. We are trying to eat a little healthier. Not going to get fast food as much. Which wasn't very much before, but more like not at all now.

It's not that we are overweight at all. We just want to be in BETTER riding shape and want our endurance levels built up.


Posted by: adam728

Quote:
Originally Posted by MXGirl230
We have mostly stopped drinking pop (or soda or whatever it is in your region!)


Yea, I just moved from Michigan (born and raised) to Georgia about 2 1/2 weeks ago. Apparently there is no such thing as pop here.

I'm on a roll now, joined a gym, bought some good new running shoes, and found out at the bike shop where the mountain bike trails are. Now with so many options I'll have to be careful not to over do it!


Posted by: SPD

The thing here is to find something you enjoy doing. I like weights, hate cardio. I lift every other day(sometimes everyday) differant body part each workout. Been lifting for 4yrs now. I drive truck so not a lot of work,just sitting. Was 245 when I came off the road (now local) got down to 196 with counting calories and cardio. Fellow worker got me to lifting. I'm now back up around 220. Lot more muscle. My diet sucks. I eat more often and watch what I eat, but gotta have my hershey kisses. I'm trying to get back into cardio on the days I don't lift. My goal is how much better I feel. At 52 I feel great.


Posted by: HajiWasAPunk

Quote:
Originally Posted by MXGirl230

Phil is also noticing improvement also. He just wants riding season to get here soon!


You should come down here, where we have the endless riding season! Race season started 2 weeks ago and it 84 while riding this Sunday! (of course we also have the endless summer, and humidity so thick birds can barely fly in July and August).

oh, we call everything Coke here!


Posted by: Bandit9

Yeah, everything is a coke down here too. No "pops" or "sodas". Just cokes.

Doing deep knee bends till your legs are shaking, really helps on the trail. I have noticed a big difference in how long I can stand up now. I do 3 sets of 50 Mon Wed Fri.

192 lbs this a.m.


Posted by: Masterphil

91KDX:

I'm almost in the same position as you, except I plan on going to USMC Officer Candidate School(OCS) in summer '07. So I have a little more time than you. You might check out this page, I know it applies to OCS, but if you could build up to this, than TBS shouldn't be much of a problem for you. The more you run, the better off you'll be for Basic.

http://www.ocs.usmc.mil/New_Web_For...date%20Prep.htm

As stated above, I've started training in prep. for USMC OCS next summer. I quit smoking on saturday, for good this time, and haven't really had a craving yet. I've got a year to be able to do at least 20 pull-ups, 100 crunches in a minute or less, and I'm setting a goal for a 20 minute or less 3-mile run. In order to meet these goals, especially the 3-mile run, I know that I'm really going to have to bust-ass and start working out for real. I plan to start lifting every other day with a goal of building muscle mass and endurance. I also plan on running at least every other day. The running is going to be the hardest part for me, I never have been a runner. I've never liked running, and I don't think that it likes me. I'm not really concerned with losing any weight, I figure if I'm working out as hard as I need to be, it will do it's thing and get lost.

If my body isin't hurting tomorrow, I'm going to get a baseline for my pull-ups, crunches, and *GULP* 3-mile run.


Posted by: squeaky

Wow! Sounds like everyone is doing great!

I've gotten in probably over 100 stairs already today (thanks to my boss being a PITA)! I have class tonight, so there won't be any exercise going on! But I plan to get back to it tomorrow!


Posted by: notenuftoys

Quote:
Originally Posted by SPD
The thing here is to find something you enjoy doing.


Exactly! I hate gyms, but enjoy cycling, either mountain or road. Before I got my motorcycle, I cycled 4-5 times a week. So now my goal of racing at least once per month is motivation to get back on the bike.


Posted by: MXGirl230

Quote:
Originally Posted by adam728
Yea, I just moved from Michigan (born and raised) to Georgia about 2 1/2 weeks ago. Apparently there is no such thing as pop here.


Moved from here to Marrieta when I was in 5th grade..should have seen the looks on my new friend's faces when I said something about "Pop"...I had to explain so many things to them...anyway..way off topic!

Well my 16yr old bro. is getting jealous...he hears about us hitting the gym and he has gotten the bug. He has gone with us twice and loves it. When he starts to slack on the cardio I just remind him that working hard at cardio will help to burn his "buddha belly" He picks it up then and gets going. It's kinda fun having him there, teaching him things, and he is actually listening to me or Phil!


Posted by: tx246

did something that im out of practice on........pulled out the kayak and did 6 miles. 3 upstream and 3 back down. mostly flat water but had a couple of shoals to paddle like crazy through to get up. tomorrow is a 5 mile run day. yea!!!


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by MXGirl230
Well my 16yr old bro. is getting jealous...he hears about us hitting the gym and he has gotten the bug. He has gone with us twice and loves it. When he starts to slack on the cardio I just remind him that working hard at cardio will help to burn his "buddha belly" He picks it up then and gets going. It's kinda fun having him there, teaching him things, and he is actually listening to me or Phil!


That's awesome!


Posted by: kdx200chick

I love reading everyones stories! It's great having this blog going....Keeps me motivated. I'm off for another 5 mile walk today....ending w/ the killer uphill climb! Aaaargh! I haven't seen my coyote friends in a few days....hmmmm, think they are still stalking me?


Posted by: MXGirl230

It's official we have made it 3 weeks and we're doing great! My asthma is SO much more in control now. I'm really looking forward to being able to race both motos at my race speed!


Posted by: adam728

Well yesterday I got out the mountain bike and hit some trails. Did it again today. I'm afraid I won't be using that gym membership much now unless it's raining. I forgot that I used to really like this bicycle stuff. Even knocked the dust off the old 20" BMXer and tooled around the parking lot here. I'm supposed to be all "grown up" now, with my professional career, yet I'm still riding around on a kids bike.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by adam728
I'm supposed to be all "grown up" now, with my professional career, yet I'm still riding around on a kids bike.



Nothing wrong with that!!!


Posted by: tx246

i love my mtb but i crash on it way more than my mxr. after a good bicycle ride, i like to ride around popping wheelies.....im 40. good news here. i started at 191 and weighed in at 182 this morning. this afternoon i decided to run for time in a mile. i didnt think i could break 8:00 but i did with a 7:41!! ill keep up the workouts and do it again in a month. yesterday, i talked my wife into going jogging with me. she plays 30+ womens soccer and has been doing a little jogging in preparation for her upcoming spring season. she usually goes out on 20-30 min runs. she has never gone more than 2-3miles. i talked her into doing 5miles with me. it was tough as she told me "this is not fun" more than once. we were on an out and back route and i thought about telling her to wait and i would run back and come back for her with a vehicle. she soldiered on and with 1.5miles to go she got a second wind and made it no problem. she told me that she would of never thought of even trying it. i am always amazed at how the human body can do more than what we give it credit for. if you are trying to get in better shape for performance, looks, health ect., keep doing it and your body will do as much as you let it.


Posted by: ryan78

My goal is to lose 50 pounds I had a health problem that made me gain 70 pounds since me and my fiance got together. But if I lose weight it will also help my problem I went from 185 to 255 I've got to lose this weight so I am watching what and how much I eat and I have been walking when I can, but I joined a gym and Monday I get back on my work out routine but it is already looking good so far I've lost 10 pounds so wish me good luck.


Posted by: tx246

way to go ryan. is that health problem gone? get in there and get started doing something you can stick with over the long haul......long enough to make it a habit.


Posted by: Arock

I should probably shape up as well! I plan on entering my first desert race the end of Feb. If I could get my stamina up by then I think I could do well. So far besides riding I haven't had much motivation. I have a hard time running (boring) and I only get to ride about 2 times a week. Any suggestions on making cardio fun?


Posted by: tx246

mountain biking is good for cardio if you are on trails with elevation. i guarantee your heart a good workout. you will also be using balance and coordination in the control of a two wheeled object which cant hurt you when you get on a motorcycle. be aware though, lots of peeps crash their brains out on mtb. i crash way more often on that dang bicycle than my cr.


Posted by: squeaky

Well my first go around at this whole getting in shape thing didn't seem to work out for me...so I'm trying a new tactic!

This morning I started my first of (hopefully) early morning walks. I got up at 5:45 a.m. and out the door I went...got a good 20 minute walk in with some hard core up hill walking near the end to get that heart of mine pumping! I'm going to try to do this every day, wish me luck!


Posted by: kdx200chick

What? First round didn't go so well? I know you have been diligent w/ your workouts Squeeky!....
I've only lost 2 pounds this month even w/ walking 5 miles a day 5 days per week! It's my understanding that you will be more successful if you lose it slowly than to fast or else you tend to gain it all back plus more. Don't lose faith girlfriend!!!

I just found out my hubby leaves for Iraq in 2 1/2 weeks. He is taking the place of a Marine who had to drop out. He is a helicopter pilot and will be gone for 1 year....I think the stress of this will help me to lose weight LOL! I'm grateful that I am in a sunny place like California because our previous deployments took place on the East Coast and several of them were winter deployments and rainy weather is certainly depressing! Those deployments made me want to stay on the couch and watch t.v.! At least w/ the sun, I'll be out "doing" stuff. I'll definately keep my walks up!


Posted by: RM_guy

Well I lost 15 pounds since I started befor Thanksgiving and was feeling pretty good. I went to the doctor for a cholestoral follow up and their wonderful scales showed that I weighed the same as I did the last time I was there in July. Damn. So I gained 15 pounds and lost them again. I just happen to start when I was the heaviest. At least I'm on the way back down!! I'm onto something that works for me and I'm sticking to it.

I've got 22 pounds to go.


Posted by: squeaky

Keep it up Dave! I expect to see you in tip-top shape for the spring Paragon ride!


Posted by: MXGirl230

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
Well my first go around at this whole getting in shape thing didn't seem to work out for me...so I'm trying a new tactic!

This morning I started my first of (hopefully) early morning walks. I got up at 5:45 a.m. and out the door I went...got a good 20 minute walk in with some hard core up hill walking near the end to get that heart of mine pumping! I'm going to try to do this every day, wish me luck!


Sweet keep it up! Good luck!


Posted by: squeaky

Alright here's my latest update:

I've still been keeping up eating really well, my biggest downfall is the few beers I like to have on the weekends, but...you can't give up everything, and I'm not trying to lose weight anyway!

I've walked 5 out of 7 days this week, the two I didn't walk were due to poor weather conditions (Icy one morning, rainy the other!).

Today I did a double loop and I feel great! I'm definitely going to keep it up!


Posted by: adam728

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
my biggest downfall is the few beers I like to have on the weekends


That's my biggest change in diet so far. Now that I'm in a whole new place with new people I've greatly changed my weekend routine. I can still count on one hand all the beers I've had in 2006! That's quite different from my previous habit, which consisted of probably 25-30 beers each weekend (plus all the late night chicken wings and pizza).

Getting the gym has proven to be my weakness here. Only made it 3 times in almost as many weeks. I have been running / biking everyday though, and put a good 6 hours of riding in on the KDX today (it's going to hurt tomorrow, I was pretty aggressive all day). I just can't get myself to go to the gym when it's so nice out!


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by adam728
I just can't get myself to go to the gym when it's so nice out!


I hear ya! That's why I don't even have a gym membership! I used to, but when I moved I cancelled it.

Now I'm out walking and such with my dog, and I have a tae-bo ab video for when it's crummy out.

I think if next weekend is as nice as this weekend was I'm going to dust off my mountain bike...then I'll probably be able to get Rooster to go with me too!


Posted by: carlbielke

Way to go Squeaky!

I was just wondering what caused your setback? Maybe we can learn something from you.
Also, good luck with your mountain bike, I think that's the closest you can get to riding your dirtbike,
I'm considering buying a MTB, I tried my wife's last week and actually caught some air on my MX track. That was fun! Now the crank makes a ticking noise though...


Posted by: tx246

ive decided to put all of this exercise to work. ive signed up for a mini triathalon http://www.cityofdenton.com/pages/m...3pchallenge.cfm

the course is 3.8 paddle down a river, run 2.5miles and mountain bike 12 miles. its a team event and i got an old classmate to do it with me. we will be in the coed division. us 40yr olds are going to put it on the kids. two years ago we did it and placed second in coed and would of placed inside the top 8 overall out of 52 teams and top 6 compared to the mens division.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by carlbielke
I was just wondering what caused your setback?


Well, I work a full time job, as most people do, but I'm also taking 3 college courses. I'm going for a Business Management degree, and two of the three classes I'm taking consume a lot of time, so the only time I have to exercise is in the morning. Sometimes I just can't get myself out of bed!!!


Posted by: carlbielke

Wow!
Yeah, with a schedule like that getting time to exercise can be hard.
Sometimes it's hard enough just to maintain your physique.
I stopped exercising three months ago and just took it up this week again,
boy my body is hurting!
I´ve put on a few pounds as well but it seems like I didn't lose a lot of muscle so my metabolism should be able to burn off that fat in short order. My short term goal is to be back in shape by March 1 but I'm lucky that I can exercise almost everyday now.
I run (boring) but the weather is better now (not so searing hot) so I got some riding in as well, hooray!
Anyways, sometimes you can not exercise and just maintain your shape IF you eat right, I had to go and see a nutritionist in order to learn that. That's something I really recommend, I always thought that you had to starve in order to lose weight and just thinking about it made me cranky.
Well, he basically told me to never get hungry, I used to eat two to three meals a day, and he set me up with a five meal plan, and as long as I exercised daily he put me on a high carb diet, I ate a lot of pasta and other stuff those weeks, it was so easy. Then I had some weeks with less carbs when I wasn't exercising but it wasn't hard at all, I got plenty of proteins and it's funny how you need less carbs when you're not burning a lot of them.
I'm sorry for being longwinded, in conclusion, see a nutritionist, I think you need a low-carb diet until you have more free time. Good luck, great thread.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by carlbielke
see a nutritionist, I think you need a low-carb diet until you have more free time. Good luck, great thread.


No, you must have misunderstood me! I'm happy with my weight, well I guess I could stand to lose a FEW pounds...but all in all I just want to get in shape. My clothes still fit and all that, I've just lost the muscle tone I used to have.

I got a pretty good workout today! we got about 7-8" of snow, so I dug my car out and cleaned all the snow off of it twice. That was good!


Posted by: MXGirl230

I'm improving on my cardio. On upper body days we do 20min of cardio. I always do the elliptical, the recumbant bikes don't get along with my knee and neither does running. I can go pretty hard (for someone with EIA) now. A lot of improvement since the beginning of January. I'm pleased with that. Still have a long way to go though. Now if I could just figure out why I'm getting dizzy while I'm doing cardio...


Posted by: OTHG_DAVE_858

Well I guess I'll chime in to. I've been going to start since the first of the year and my brother embarrased me into starting today. I need lots of cardio and weight loss so heres what I did today.
10 mins ex. bike 10 mins nordic track 10 mins treadmill 5 mins rowing machine and 5 mins cardioworker then a full upperbody on the bowflex, all i need to do is do it again tomorrow and the day after and so on. I will report daily unless it snows. I will need support cause I'm lazy. Dave


Posted by: tx246

mxgirl320 that dizzyness is not a good sign. maybe overdoing it? lots of factors involved here but for some reason you are not getting enough oxygen to your head. might want to see your doc for blood pressure base and just a general checkup before continuing.


Posted by: MXGirl230

Quote:
Originally Posted by tx246
mxgirl320 that dizzyness is not a good sign. maybe overdoing it? lots of factors involved here but for some reason you are not getting enough oxygen to your head. might want to see your doc for blood pressure base and just a general checkup before continuing.

Kind of what I'm wondering...can't be overdoing it. My head has not been rechecked since my last head injury...I've been thinking that I should give the doc a call...


Posted by: OTHG_DAVE_858

Ok I said I would post everyday but I slacked. I did better with the workouts, did a little everyday need to stepup intensity but its damn hard with old knees.


Posted by: MXGirl230

Went to the doc he seems to think that my shoulder/neck/head pain is caused by pulling a back muscle last month (stupid ice). He said no gym for 3 weeks (my next appt) and I have to start physical therapy...ugh..should have gone last month when I was supposed to have gone...now I'm going to be behind on everything...It's not the lifting that's bothering me, it's the cardio...So I guess I'll give it 3 weeks...


Posted by: tx246

maybe you can do cardio by walking hills in the neighborhood. you can work on hand/eye coordination with the old playstaion.


Posted by: MXGirl230

haha, my neighborhood is pretty flat! plus...I live in Michigan...it's too cold to walk outside.Walking in the neighborhood is how I pulled the muscle in the first place. The roads get really icy because no one puts any salt on them.
So I think I'll go to the gym tonight and try the recumbant bike. At least with that my back is supported. I won't go all out, I'll go slow and easy and if I feel bad I'll get off.
I have been working on the hand/eye coordination with MX vs. ATV unleased on the X-Box.


Posted by: squeaky

Sorry to hear that MXGirl! Hopefully you can find some sort of activity replacement!

I'm back on the wagon again! I did my ab workout twice this week and walked once so far! It feels good!


Posted by: MXGirl230

Well I start PT NEXT Thursday...UUGGH!!! There are 7 offices here in town and only ONE has ONE opening...Plus it's on the other end of town (15-20min drive depending on lights/traffic). Guess I gotta do what I gotta do though...

I did try the recumbant bike last night, it went okay...just boring and I don't want to overdo it..


Posted by: tx246

i am so bummed. i have been training like a madman for an upcoming sprint triathalon at the end of march. they have cancelled the event due to low water conditions. one of the elements is paddling 4 miles down a river. i bet i have 250+miles combined training on bicycle, running and paddling in the last 6 weeks. arrrrrggg!! the one positive is that i dont get tired as fast riding the moto stuff as a result of all of this activity. carry on yall and make your goals.


Posted by: MXGirl230

SOO I started physical therapy today. The lady that I worked with has linked my dizziness and headaches and my recent back injury to my closed head injury back in July of 2002! Since the head injury I have had on and off headaches and dizziness. At the time I went to PT and got kinda better, but never 100%. I have had x-rays, cat scans, and MRI's done...everything always coming up clear. So she was asking about my hobbies and was like...have you ever had any closed head injuries..I was like yeah and explained them to her. She started feeling my spine and sternum. Once she started to get into my neck the first few vertebrae were really painful. Then she did this crazy stuff with her fingers to my head...at one point my ears got really hot and turned bright red. She had "released" the built up "energy" in my head and neck. What she dis is called "CranioSacral" therapy http://www.craniosacraltherapy.org/Whatis.htm. After she was done, I actually did feel better and my head didn't feel like it had as much pressure on it...crazy stuff, but I felt better and that's what matters..so hopfully this stuff will work and I can get back into my workout routine. I haven't been feeling well enough to do it. I got so dizzy in church the other day I almost fell back into the pew. Not good!
So everyone else still doing well on their workouts?


Posted by: squeaky

Good to hear your PT is going well, I hope it keeps up like that for you!

I've been getting some sort of additional physical activity in at least every other day. It is going well, I don't get so winded if I run up a flight of stairs or anything like that.

Rooster had me doing push ups last night! Wow, I have absolutely no upper body strength, I could only do 10!!! But, I'm going to keep after it for riding!

The weather was unseasonable warm but now it's back to normal so it's too cold to walk


Posted by: MXGirl230

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
Good to hear your PT is going well, I hope it keeps up like that for you!


Thanks! I hope so too!! I've been fighting this for a long time, it's time for it to go away. Phil was really happy that it went well today to. Guess we'll see what the next 3 weeks will bring!

-Tracie


Posted by: karlp

Getting in shape for the Enduro season this year I came across a really good way to get a whole body workout:
I can't run because of my knees, so I've been walking about 2.5 miles everyday. Try walking with a 15 pound barbell!
Holy cow, I felt like I came off a 60 mile race the next day.
Walking 2.5 miles takes about 40 minutes. For 40 minutes I'll do curls, lifts, over the head extensions. forearm curls, etc., alternating left and right hands. That 15 pounds feels like about 88 pounds by the time you get home.


Posted by: travis712

Hey guys I haven't been around for a while(last login was 12-03-2005, lol). But I really need to get back into shape. I'm only 5'11", 225 pounds. That is ridiculous. I need to lose weight, and need some insperation(sp). I don't have a treadmill which sucks. I have a bike, but i'd rather use a treadmill. Its 20* out, so i'm not running outside because i'll get sick.

But yeah, I want to get back to around 200. The worst feeling is knowing you around your set weight, and you put it all back on.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by travis712
Its 20* out, so i'm not running outside because i'll get sick.


That's not true. If you dress properly you'll be fine. It's about the same here, so if I want to walk outside I wear: longjohn pants and shirt, warm socks, sweatpants, t-shirt, sweatshirt, jacket, gloves, earmuffs and I'm fine. You actually end up working up a good sweat with all those clothes on too, just make sure to keep your ears covered (I went out without earmuffs on once and by the time I got back the insides of my ears hurt so bad from the cold) and keep your fingers covered too, those are the most important in my opinion.

The State of Rhode Island has a new incentive program for working out and getting in shape called Shape Up RI. You sign up with a team and enter your total team weight and activity hours bi-weekly and the team with the most total weight loss and the team with the most total activity hours at the end of 3 months wins prizes and gets to attend a prestigious awards ceremony. I signed up along with Papakeith, my mom, PK's cousin, and a couple of my friends. It's really great incentive to diet and workout, because you don't want to let the team (or yourself) down. I found a great strength training workout for myself to alternate with cardio. I started this morning, even though the competition doesn't start until Monday, to see how I liked it. I feel better after one workout, just because I got up this morning and my body moving and blood pumping right away. It was great!

I'll keep posting with my progress! Hopefully all this motivation will get us in shape for riding season!


Posted by: travis712

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
That's not true. If you dress properly you'll be fine. It's about the same here, so if I want to walk outside I wear: longjohn pants and shirt, warm socks, sweatpants, t-shirt, sweatshirt, jacket, gloves, earmuffs and I'm fine. You actually end up working up a good sweat with all those clothes on too, just make sure to keep your ears covered (I went out without earmuffs on once and by the time I got back the insides of my ears hurt so bad from the cold) and keep your fingers covered too, those are the most important in my opinion.


This is true I suppose. Its just hard to get out in the winter. & I live on a real busy road, guess im just


Posted by: RM_guy

I had been loosing weight pretty good until the last couple of weeks. I started out at 222 and am now stuck at 204 +/- 1lbs. It's hard to keep motivated when I keep going up and down a pound or two.

I've been doing the treadmill for 2-2.5 miles every other evening. I stay at 3.5 mph with the incline set at 10 degrees for 3/4 of the time. It's a pretty good work out and I build up a good sweat. I want to work up to 3-4 miles but I don't want to over do it. My knees won't take it. I'm back up to 3 glycosimine (sp?) a day again to ward off the pain.

In the morning's of the treadmill I do 30 push ups and 30 sit ups. I increase the number by 5 per week. Plus I use my old bull worker for some isometric resistance training.

My diet has been the same, low fat, smaller portions but more frequently. Lot's of water, no snacks at night unless it's an orange or some kind of fruit. I'll sneak a cookie every once in a while but hey, They're soooo good!

I'm hoping that I'm in a place where I'm building muscle mass and it's offseting my fat loss. I want to be under 200 by the end of March. Wish me luck!!


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by RM_guy
I'll sneak a cookie every once in a while but hey, They're soooo good!


You've got to cheat every once in a while, as long as you don't overdo it! I think that's the only way to stay sane when dieting.

Good luck Dave, it sounds like you've really got yourself motivated and you're working really hard toward your goals!


Posted by: JMK

Ive put on some weight over the holidays ( and including a move to another state) gained about 15lbs total..ive lost about 8 of that but having trouble getting the rest off. I need to get back in shape for this is spring..you guys have some great ideas....thanks


Posted by: MXGirl230

So I have been going to phyiscal therapy for almost 2 weeks now. It has made pretty good improvements for me. I am not getting as many headaches and not a whole lot of dizziness. My neck has finally loosened up and my back isn't bothering me anymore! So I'm hoping that in two weeks I can be back at the gym and back on my program. SOO hopefully I can go on a rollercoaster this year! I haven't been able to go on one since I "bumped" my head!! Six Flags here I come!!! Okay..well maybe that's a bit much to find out if I can still go on one...guess I'll have to go to Michigan's Adventure! lol


Posted by: RM_guy

I finanly went to the doctor to see what else I could do to loose some weight and train better, I had a lot of questions and I thought I'd share the answers with the rest of you. It's changed my whole outlook on fitness!



Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?

A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.


Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?

A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.


Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?

A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!


Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?

A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.


Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise

program?

A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!


Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?

A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!!... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?


Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?

A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should

only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.


Q: Is chocolate bad for me?

A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!


Q: Is swimming good for your figure?

A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.


Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?

A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.

And remember: "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO, What a Ride"


Posted by: squeaky

LOL And I thought you were going to have something serious to say!

How has everyone been doing on their workouts? Since Saturday March 4, I've only missed two days of getting some sort of serious exercise!


Posted by: RM_guy

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
LOL And I thought you were going to have something serious to say! ...
Ha!


Posted by: adam728

I'm doing horrible on the workout thing now. I finally got in a good rythem, running, biking, or lifting, everyday, plus eating good. But I've been living on the road for about 4 weeks now, with 2 more to go. I wish this hotel had a gym! It's hard to go running when it's 10 degrees and snowing out. It's hard to eat healthy too. I can't wait to get back home and back into the swing of things!


Posted by: MXGirl230

So I have been going to physical therapy for 3 weeks now. Everything is going very well. I'm not getting headaches or dizziness anymore. Only when I don't get enough sleep.
So next week I can be back on my program! YAY, I am soo glad we finally got the dizzines/headache thing fixed!
I have been sticking to very light working out, mostly using my ball, squats, lunges and mild lifing. I should be cleared after this week to be back on full swing!! I sure hope so! Racing starts in a couple of weeks!!


Posted by: Vampyrz

Over the Christmas break my son decided to go out for the soccer team, so I started running with him. At first I could only run about 20 yards before I was sucking wind hard. I stayed with a "couch to 5k" program and have since run a 5k race, and I'm running my second one next weekend. I've dropped from 210 to 185 and hoping to drop a little more. I feel great except for the knee and hip problems I'm having from running so damn much. Go figure.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by Vampyrz
Over the Christmas break my son decided to go out for the soccer team, so I started running with him. At first I could only run about 20 yards before I was sucking wind hard. I stayed with a "couch to 5k" program and have since run a 5k race, and I'm running my second one next weekend. I've dropped from 210 to 185 and hoping to drop a little more. I feel great except for the knee and hip problems I'm having from running so damn much. Go figure.


WOW! How do you get there that quickly, that's awesome!!!

I'd like to try running, but I'd probably drop dead and/or kill my dog at the same time!


Posted by: Vampyrz

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
WOW! How do you get there that quickly, that's awesome!!!

I'd like to try running, but I'd probably drop dead and/or kill my dog at the same time!


I went on a (for me) strict diet. Oatmeal for breakfast with a scrambled egg. Fruit at mid-morning, 1 (one!) sardine divided between 3 crackers for lunch, more fruit at mid-noon, a piece of broiled fish and a steamed veggie for dinner. I gave up coffee for green tea, which I drink constantly, drink lots more water, and gave up all junk food, beef, and most dairy products. I do take suppliments and a protein shake (with water only) once or twice a day.

I followed a running program (Couch to 5K) at coolrunning.com to get started, and worked up to 45 minutes a session nightly on an eliptical trainer at home.

Between the restricted calories and the increased cardio the weight came off quickly but I never felt weak or tired. Once a week I eat whatever I want, but I really don't want as much to eat as I used to. My weight seems to have stabilized at 185 but I'm shooting for 170-175 eventually.

To me the key is consistency. Stay on whatever diet you choose, don't miss scheduled runs or other opportunities to burn some extra calories. And yes, I thought I'd drop dead from running early on but you get over that pretty soon. Start slow and work your way up!

Good luck to you!


Posted by: WaltCMoto

4 years ago, at age 39( April, 2002), I rode-raced my first and only enduro. I was so spent afterwards, I couldn't even take my chest protector and jersey off. It was at that point I decided to get in shape.
The summer of 02 I rode my mountain bike for cardio and joined a gym to work on upper body. 3 workouts of each per week.The good news was that I felt better-healthier than I had in 15 years. Later that summer I raced my first Hare Scramble. When the 1 1/2 hour race was over, I was feeling strong and not even winded.
6 months of working out and I didnt lose any weight or that dreaded innertube around my waist. BUT, I did feel great. Fall came and it was to cold to ride the bike outside, so I tried the stationary bikes at the club and was bored out of my mind. I had not run in 20 years, except when being chased. A friend of mine convinced me to give the treadmill a try. Like Forest Gump, I ran and never stopped. 6 months later, I had lost that pudge around the waist. Im 5' 9" and went from 165 down to 155. Nothing burns the fat like running.
Now I belong to 2 running clubs and have run 3 marathons. The best thing you can do is find something that you stick with. If you try something for a month or 2 and it just isnt your bag, try something else, just dont give up. If your walking, make sure to give it a good hard effort, results take a little longer, but they will come. if interested in starting a running program, try this site.

http://www.halhigdon.com/


Posted by: squeaky

I've been walking/strength training, my goal is to just get a workout in every day of at least 30 minutes. My walking consists of 1 1/2 miles of mostly uphills which takes me about 30 minutes to do, I push myself pretty hard.

I'm really not looking to lose weight, but to tone up and get in shape. I'm feeling better already, but I was at the point just a few weeks ago where I couldn't even run up a flight of stairs without feeling winded.

I'm going to check out that site Walt, thanks for the tip!


Posted by: adam728

Yea! I got to go out and do something yesterday. It was finally decent out and I went walking for 2 hours with some pretty big hills. And today it's snowing like mad....

I can't wait to get home at the end of this week and try and get back in the "routine".


Posted by: squeaky

Alright, I've worked out 11.5 hours in the past 2 weeks! I'm really getting there, I feel so much better!

Last night I did a bunch of stretches in the shower and felt great! So now I'm going to get up a bit earlier in the morning and do those stretches to get my day going!

I'm going to be in great shape for riding season!


Posted by: Papakeith

Yay Squeaky!


Posted by: RM_guy

We're gonna need to see proof of the streches in the shower. Still photos are OK but video is preferred


BTW, I broke 200 lbs I can't remeber the last time I was below 200. I feel great!


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by RM_guy
We're gonna need to see proof of the streches in the shower. Still photos are OK but video is preferred




Quote:
Originally Posted by RM_guy
BTW, I broke 200 lbs I can't remeber the last time I was below 200. I feel great!


Congrats on the weight you old perv!


Posted by: Papakeith

RM_guy, tread softly

I do believe you've earned yourself a serious roosting for those comments.


Posted by: RM_guy

Quote:
Originally Posted by Papakeith
...I do believe you've earned yourself a serious roosting for those comments.
Hmmm, them's fightin' words. Good luck though, ya have to be in front of me to roost me

IS IT THE FIRST YET?!?!?!?!?!?


Posted by: travis712

I want in on this. I want to get from my extreme 225-230(as of now) down to 200. I just need motivation..


Posted by: 2smokers

Once you do something 21 times its a habbit and real easy to keep on doing. Thats what I stuck to and after about 20 times of working out it was easy to do it regulary. Now im in the best shape of my life, only 292.5 1/2 pounds! I FEEL SO GOOD!!


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by travis712
I want in on this. I want to get from my extreme 225-230(as of now) down to 200. I just need motivation..


Read this whole thread, that's tons of motivation right there.

I've been working out steadily for about 5 weeks now, at least 4 times per week, and I am really feeling great. I don't get winded running up and down stairs anymore, I feel more flexible, and I just have more energy in total! It's great!


Posted by: RM_guy

Wow, what a difference 25 lbs makes when I ride. Between that and have a bit more stamina I felt great. I went out for the first ride of the season over the weekend and had a blast. I had been contemplating gearing down my bike for the woods because it just wasn’t pulling as much as I’d like. Well I don’t need to do that! I found myself in 2nd gear most of the time with power to spare!!! I didn’t really notice it until later in the day when I saw that I was going a lot faster through some stuff than I normally do.

I have a little over 10 more pounds to go but I have some real incentive now!


Posted by: squeaky

Awesome Dave!

Rooster and I rode for about 1 1/2 hours yesterday, and I felt pretty good after that! I figured it being the first ride of the season, even though it was an easy one, I'd be somewhat sore today. I'm not! It's fanastic!

Tonight, I'm going out on my mountain bike, I need to practice my balance LOL...


Posted by: RM_guy

Oh, I'm sore!!! I can barely walk today. I don't care what I do during the winter I am never able to work all the muscles I use during riding!


Posted by: adam728

Wow, this fell all the way back to the second page! Is everyone slacking?

I've been doing pretty good, the local park path is 1.25 miles and I've been running 2-3 laps everyday, except for 2 days last week, when I was fighting a losing battle to some food poisoning. But I was probably losing more weight doing that than running!

I haven't gotten any riding in unfortunatly. Waiting for my cylinder to come back from getting replated . I figure by the time it's just about too hot to ride I'll have the bike back together.


Posted by: squeaky

No slacking! Actually I've been doing at least 1/2 hours worth of something every day.

I've ridding for 90 minutes every Sunday for the past 3 Sundays in a row too!

I feel great!


Posted by: RM_guy

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
...Actually I've been doing at least 1/2 hours worth of something every day...
I bet your boss is happy to get even that much out of you


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by RM_guy
I bet your boss is happy to get even that much out of you





Posted by: 2-strokes-4-life

i am attempting to get in shape as well.i got out of ridding in 2000 and for some reason right after that its seems things started going down hill.by mid 04 i weighed at my worst 330 lbs! well,when i found this out i said to myself "thats it,you have to do something about this" so i started dieting and cutting out all the joke food that i was eating.it took awhile to gain some will power and self control but i finally did it and once i started seeing results there was no turning back.as of right now i weigh around 185 and would like to get down to around 170 or so.as far as exercise goes i walk at least 4 times a week and do various types of strength training 3 times a week.i want to start racing to and that was one of my motivators when trying to lose weight.


Posted by: squeaky

I really feel great now with all the exercise I've been getting!

I've even taken up tennis (kind of...). I've played twice now, and I've got a long ways to go until I can actually play a game of tennis, but the practice is great and it's fun!


Posted by: Papakeith

Glad you are enjoying the tennis lessons.
Tonight you WILL learn to control your swing!

tennis is much more fun than walking yes?


Posted by: Squid_uk

I've got the problem of after doing 2 laps on a small course my fore arms are agony and i get to the point where i can't squeeze the clutch because it hurts so much!


Posted by: Papakeith

try to ride through it even if it means slowing down a bit to stay in control. If I do that my arms relax again and I can keep going.


Posted by: +30

squid uk- gripping the bike more with the legs lets your arms have a break for a spell. it helped me get alot more laps in before getting arm pump....


Posted by: WaltCMoto

Squid,
Sounds like your hanging on for dear life. Go at a more relaxed pace and get comftorble with the speed your going.

Back on track here......Great job keeping up the workouts Sqeeky.


Posted by: Haycock Kid

I walk and pedal the mtb, but doing more street riding that dirt as I get older. Muscles have always been real tight; stretching is real important for me, and yoga solved that problem - also helped arms and shoulders. New exercise; my boys talked me into buying a tampoline. Try jumping on that thing for two minutes - kicked my @ss.


Posted by: adam728

To the top!

I was doing good, about a week after my last post I made it back "home" for the first time this year and a lot of people noticed I lost some weight.

Unfortunatly since the beginning of May I have been living on the road and I feel like I gained it all back. I have been trying to run as often as possible, but it's only like twice a week, as I'm working some crazy hours. When you leave the hotel at 5 am and get back at 9-10 pm you don't really feel like running. Eating healthy is tough too, although I've got a fridge in the hotel room and have been stocking it with good stuff.

The worst part about all this? Since I never see the light of day my tan is gone.


Posted by: MXWRENCH

After 6 years out of the saddle I bought a YZ250 and started riding again. Goodness me !! i could barely drive home the first time, every time since (3) my body have been as stiff as an ironing board for days after. I am not riding over my head or triying to hang with the faster riders. Riding at my own pace has been great.

This column has inspired me to get back into shape (same old story - met girlfriend when I was at my all time best, lean, fit and strong - then along comes the love tummy) I find it difficult to get inspiration from mens magazines becuase they are mostly about appearance (they do have good content for nutrition etc.) all I want to do is hang on for a 30 minute moto.

To cut a long story short, its back on the food watch and regular excercise. I going to set some targets this weekend and hopefully in a month or two will be able to report back with some decent results.

Good luck to all out there with similar goals & thanks for the great reading !!

Keep it real


Posted by: jrwhite

i'd like to get back in shape, not in too bad of shape right now but i feel you guys on the love tummy. women, see what they do? i'm not gonna lie and say i'm gonna start running, cause i probably won't, but i do plan on riding my 20" bike more often. eventually building a small dirt track in the backyard, and i figure if i hit the track on the bike several times a week my abs, legs, and cardio will be up to par in no time. plus it won't be boring like running. and i'm not the healthy eat of the year, but i try to cut out as much junk and bad food that i can. hell i used to eat fast food every day, now maybe once a month if that.

what do you guys think?


Posted by: Haycock Kid

Hey - I traveled for 10 plus years - eating road food is tuff - stayed w/ salads and beer, but now I'm in the office and home every night - even worse now - no HIExpress exercise room and all the food in the house - all meals are a cut in half and trying to snack on veggies and fruit only - and age doesn't help.


Posted by: squeaky

Well I kind of fell off the excercise bandwagon for a while - but I started again this week.

I've been getting up at 5:30 a.m. to walk the dog, which takes 30 minutes, then doing crunches and reverse crunches, and lifting some weights. All in all takes about 45 minutes. After only 3 days I already feel better! I'm not giving up this time!


Posted by: Haycock Kid

I haven't skateboarded for 25 years and thought skim boarding at the shore last week couldn't be that much different - fall down a lot. Did it for three days before the pain started. I'm sore and stiff still, but I feel better. I'm too old to play in pain but came to the realization that I have to play in the "awareness or discomfort" zone.


Posted by: tx246

skim boarding is fun if you can find a good spot


Posted by: squeaky

Okay guys - I dropped off the bandwagon for a while since Rooster and I were moving. But, we're all settled in now, and I'm settled into my new routine of work, school, and new place to live.

I've worked 3 each hour long workouts a week of Tae Bo into my schedule - Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (days I don't have classes).

I've got to keep up the motivation since I'll be sitting around for many hours a day between work and studying!


Posted by: RM_guy

Well I have good news...I gained 8 pounds back. And to make it even better I am way out of shape and get picked on when I have to stop and rest

Time to get back in shape


Posted by: NM_KDX200

Quote:
Originally Posted by bordrshane
I also traded in my 250f for a 125, so I gotta get back down to about 170lbs.


I'm 44, 5' 6" and 170 lbs. I'm not fat but I have a big barrel chest and chunky thighs. I do have to watch my weight and I would like to get down to 160 but this is going to require some serious work.

My 125 is what keeps me in shape. The thing is so demanding and demands such precision and control to ride fast that I have to stay in shape to keep on top of it. Aside from riding, which will in itself help get you in shape, I ride my mountain bike outdoors and work on the Nordic Track, elliptical, and station. bike indoors. For MX, it's real important to do interval training, esp. on the bike. I pick out a point about 100 yd away and ride as hard and fast as I can to that point, then cruise again. I've found a heart rate monitor to be a BIG encouragement. At 44, I can ride for an hour at 145-150 bpm, and I've hit 165 for short intervals.

I also do Tae-Bo several times a week and have found this to REALLY help my balance, agility, and flexibility. Prior to starting on Tae-Bo, I couldn't hardly stand on 1 foot, now I can do high kicks while standing on 1 foot. I tie 10 lb weights to a pair of old handlebars and "ride the whoops"- have found this to help my upper body a lot. I do some variation on all these exercises 3-4 times a week and ride 1-2x. I am not a natural athlete by any means and doing these kind of exercises has really helped me.

I definitely watch is what I eat. I do best when I have an egg-based breakfast (protein) with yogurt and fruit. I eat whatever I want for lunch. Supper is a good salad (red and green leaf lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers, sprouts, etc) with chicken or beef topping. Soft drinks, candy, ice cream, etc are all rare treats and every time I have some I think "Okay, bub, that's 20 minutes on the Nordic Track down the drain".

I honestly think I'm in the best shape I've ever been in. In fact, I recently got a discount on my health insurance because I passed my physical with flying colors.

And all because I have a 125!


Posted by: Haycock Kid

Update - my doctor ok'd me to exercise again. Two months ago at the shore I played like a kid again. The following weekend at a picnic playing wiffle ball put me over the edge - couldn't walk the next day - Achilles tendon. Lots of rest and stretching - I'm ok to start cycling for cardio - can do yoga and tai chi again too - another month or two before I start pounding on that foot again.


Posted by: squeaky

I've been doing great with the Tae Bo - I can do a good percentage of the 55 minute video straight through.

Went country line dancing tonight - talk about cardio! I can still tell that I just quit smoking a couple of months ago - I definitely need to get some more hard core cardio in and really work those lungs!


Posted by: rickyd

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
I can still tell that I just quit smoking a couple of months ago - I definitely need to get some more hard core cardio in and really work those lungs!

Try breathing in through your nose and exhale through your mouth, supposedly it helps you get more oxygen.. Give your lungs some time, they will heal.. I smoked for about 20 years and rarely get winded anymore


Posted by: mg89

Yeah, I need to lose weight, from since I registered for this forum I weighed like 180ish and I have just become lazy and didn't really do anything for while and gained 30 pounds by July, I went on a scale and saw that I was 210, I was just like whoa, what happened here? I didn't even know if that was possible to gain that much in like 4 1/2 months. Then I got in an accident, and just sat around and ate and gained another 18lbs. So now I way 228 I'm not that tall either, I'm like 5'9" so issed: I seriously don't even know how that is possible, I'm seriously issed:

Any good advice to lose like 5lbs a week? I really need it.


Posted by: FruDaddy

I don't know about 5 pounds per week, But if you drink a lot of sodas, switch to water ( I hated it at first, but found the Dasani flavored stuff to ease the transition). There are a lot of calories to be saved that way. Also, spend 20-30 minutes per day briskly walking or jogging. Start slow and be patient. When it comes time to cut your grass, use a push mower. I hit 205 last winter, cut the sodas and made it down to around 195 by July, not I hit the gym 4-5 day a week (30 hard minutes on the treadmill then 20-30 on weights) Now I am nearing the 180lb mark.


Posted by: mg89

Thanks for the tip, I'm going to switch soda with water and chips with nutrigrain bars that my mom always buys, and eat more fruit. I started walking 20min on the treadmill before I go to school, and for some reason I feel good for the rest of the day. No progress on my weight yet but I'm sure I'll start dropping the pounds pretty quick.


Posted by: Josherichy

If you want to get in shape for racing i like to use an elliptical this works your whole body. it also helps eliminate arm pump. I like to go no it for at least 40 min every day and when a race comes up, twice a day 40 min each time


Posted by: squeaky

Okay boys and girls - it's a new year and it's time for a new me! I fell off the bandwagon big time with this one. Well, I'm going tonight to sign up at the gym and my goal is to go 3x a week.

I gained 3 pounds over the holidays - which is just enough for my pants to feel a bit too tight. Plus I just feel like crap all around - I am OUT of shape. Time to get into shape before riding season!

Who's with me?


Posted by: XRpredator

three whole pounds, sheesh!

I think I could cut off a toe and lose that.

I'm workin' it too. It's time to get a few more biscuits under 300


Posted by: RM_guy

I gained 14 lbs since Summer and have started working on it again. I wish I had kept a better handle on my weight but I saw it go up a few pounds every week or so and figured--that's not too much--until I am where I am now. At least I didn't gain all 25 pounds back!!!


Posted by: Papakeith

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
I gained 3 pounds over the holidays

It's only three?


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by Papakeith
It's only three?





Posted by: adam728

Wow, this post has been going a while.

I quit excersizing a while back, moved to Arizona and my work schedule got stupid for a while. Always at some customer, so my normal daily commute is about 100 miles each way (in a lifted Jeep none-the-less). Add that to anywhere from a 10-14 hour work day (salary of course) and I have trouble finding time to sleep, let alone work out. I'm making a strong effort to not work myself to death now, and hopefully I can be home by 8pm on most nights and go run/bike.

I have been very active on weekends, riding, biking, hiking, camping and whatever else. Got to see my gf over Christmas and she thinks I lost some belly and gained some muscle, so that's a good thing. I know it's a lot easier loading my KDX by myself, so I can tell a difference. She's biking and eating good, so she's shed about 15 pounds of the weight she gained after 2 knee surgeries, so that's real good. Of course, it means I have some catching up to do.

Last time I was "home" was July, 177 pounds. I got back for Christmas and was 181, then 183. I got deathly sick last week and in 2 days dropped to 176, all water weight of course. Now I probably won't step on a scale again till April when I get home again.


Posted by: squeaky

Well good luck Adam! Keep with it!

I hear ya on the stupid schedules - luckily I work a normal 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. schedule, but then I go to school (night classes) on top of that. So, it's difficult for me to find time.

I read an article somewhere that said "Schedule your workout like you'd schedule a meeting with a superior at work or a date, so that you don't cancel it. Don't put your needs last." I really like that idea - so i'm going to put my workouts in my calendar at work and not schedule anything else around that time!

The gym I joined is 6 miles from my office, too, so that definitely helps. I start tonight - wish me luck!


Posted by: FruDaddy

Consider scheduling you workout for the mornings, before you go to work, that way you won't be so exhausted from you day that you would rather just have a beer and veg out.


Posted by: squeaky

I, personally, can't do that. Being a chick, it's too much work! If the gym was right down the street from my house I probably would but to tote around clothes, hair dryer, hair products, and make up is a major PITA.

It is a good idea though, FruDaddy - I used to do that - and like I said, for me, major PITA!


Posted by: adam728

Quote:
Originally Posted by FruDaddy
Consider scheduling you workout for the mornings, before you go to work, that way you won't be so exhausted from you day that you would rather just have a beer and veg out.


That would be great, but I usually leave for work by 5 am. I've never been able to work out in the morning anyway, I just don't know why. It's always been an end of day thing for me.

Tomorrow I need to hit the road by 4:30 am so I can be in the Mexico plant by 6:30 for the start of 2007 production.


Posted by: squeaky

Well I went on my first trip to the gym since May of 2005 - boy am I OUT of shape!

I lasted 15 minutes on the elliptical machine - and that was tough. Then I did a little bit of a circuit, one machine for each major muscle group, just to ease back into it. I'm feeling it today! But I can't wait to go again!


Posted by: olthesav

15 min cycling 20 min cross trainer, 1500m row then full circuit of fixed weight equipment in teh gym 2 sets of ten reps on each on medium weight to whet i can lift three timnes a week,,+ full days riding every sunday.. seems to be working well so far i was night and day difference at this moto compared to my last a month ago when i came in so exhausted after the first race i thought i was gonna croak it!!


Posted by: olthesav

tip to make it more intersting train with a friend,, sure is good fun racing on the rowing machines!!


Posted by: squeaky

If I had a friend that would actually get off their butts and train with me I'd be so happy! Unfortunately, no one seems to have the same schedule as me, or the motivation, etc...

But I've been doing well so far - I made my way on the elliptical from level one manual the first time I went for 15 minutes to Level two random hills and 30 minutes last time I went to the gym. I feel better already!


Posted by: squeaky

Okay so I guess I'm the only one getting in shape this year?!

Well I've been going to the gym 2-3 times a week since the beginning of the year. What a difference! I feel so good!

I'm doing 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer - I do random hills and I'm up to Level 6. Then I do 25 minutes of weights - I try to hit every major muscle group at least once and then I stretch for 5 minutes. I haven't lost any weight but I wasn't trying to. I can, however, see a difference in my muscle tone, especially my stomach and legs.

Anyone else doing anything successfully?


Posted by: darylZero

I'm a triathlete and my first triathlon of the season is on March 18th but a month ago my training hit a little snag… I got a CR250R and now riding it is the only thing I want to do.


Posted by: DaRooster

Hello to all, been meaning to post about training since December now and damn if I never got around to it! Been training 3x or 4x (if work doesn't get in the way) a week and seems to be helping out a ton. I'm currently around 210 from 225 at around the holidays and never really feel worn out all of the time. My workout usually consists of 1.75 miles on the elliptical and 5 miles on the bike each around a level 4 on the alpine workout level. I usually alternate lower and upper body workouts each time I go. I've noticed I can lift more easier as I coninue to go but try not to blow myself out. I'm trying this in an attempt to go racing this Spring. My son wants to start racing this year and has dragged me (to much delight) along for the ride. The downer for all of this is I've refreshed and cleaned both bikes and am just waiting on the blasted weather to break. I hate to say it but Ohio weather just plain sucks. Its way too damp out even though temperatures are rising. Every day on the way to work I pass a track and all I can do is just look and hope it dries up soon.

P.S. I just got back from the gym.

Later,
Chad


Posted by: rickyd

I go about 4-5 times a week. During the week lately I have been doing alot of running and some eliptical. BUt this past week I started back up w/Spin Aerobics 2 times a week. Saturday morning I will take a Circuit training class, very intense! Then On Any Sunday i will be riding some laps on my bike and then do it all over again next week

Keep up the good work Squeaky


Posted by: FruDaddy

Quote:
Originally Posted by squeaky
I'm doing 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer - I do random hills and I'm up to Level 6. Then I do 25 minutes of weights - I try to hit every major muscle group at least once and then I stretch for 5 minutes. I haven't lost any weight but I wasn't trying to. I can, however, see a difference in my muscle tone, especially my stomach and legs.
You might see faster results if you break up your workout, perhaps, legs, chest and arms, back and abs. That way you can hit each muscle group a little harder. Either way, keep it up. I have found that if you let up, it gets too easy to stop, and real hard to go back.

For anybody interested, bodybuilding.com seems to me to be an excellent training resource.


Posted by: kawikiller

regularly stretching is great for the body. One of the main things I believe in being athletic is flexibility. I used to run 4 miles a day 5 days a week. I hate running. I was on a strict diet also. I am naturally thin so when I was running and dieting I actually put on weight (muscle). I have since stopped and eat whatever I want and drink beer whenever I want and dont excercise at all anymore. I only dropped 5 pounds but I am not as toned as I was before. But oh well, im naturally thin I dont need to be all buff. And all the dieting and stuff was a pain. meal replacement shakes etc.


burpee's are a great way to get into shape. It does it all, and doesnt take that much time out of the day. it gets your legs arms chest if throw in a sit up your abs and it also is great for conditioning. dont know what a burpee is? thats ok heres a link. if you can push out 50 of these things in a row you are in decent shape.


ok well I cant insert a link, just google burpee and you will find it.

I thought I would add calisthenics are great, better than weights etc. in my opinion.


Posted by: squeaky

Quote:
Originally Posted by FruDaddy
You might see faster results if you break up your workout, perhaps, legs, chest and arms, back and abs. That way you can hit each muscle group a little harder. Either way, keep it up.


Really? So - if I do 2 strength training workouts a week and break it up into Legs/Abs/Back for one and Chest/Arms for another I may see better results because I'm not cramming all of those areas into 1/2 hour workout?


Posted by: FruDaddy

Yep, I find that 2 days between working out any on body part is best for me. You basically get to concentrate more on each part instead of cramming through in a hurry. My plan is 4 days per week mon, tue, thu, fri. I do 5-6 exersices each day, 3 sets each of 8-10 reps (70-85% of max weight) with 1-2 minutes between sets. It takes about half an hour, and I do half an hour of cardio on the treadmill.

I am not a fitness expert, so take my recommendations with a grain of sand. I am basing this on what I have read and what seems to work best for me. I do try to read up and find better ways of doing things myself. For instance, I usually do my cardio first, but last night I found several articles telling me that the cardio should be done after the resistance (if they are both done).


Posted by: kawikiller

I have done martial arts on and off my whole life. Trust me burpees are great!


Posted by: FruDaddy

They may in fact be wonderful, but how well do they work the hamstrings, back, shoulders, and biceps? Also, spending 5 minutes doing these will not do much for your cardio (you need an accelerated heart rate for at least 15 minutes). Doing burpees to train for MX is kind of like sprinting to train for a marathon. You say that you have been in martial arts, then you should realize that the burpees were only a small part of your training and conditioning. I'm sorry, but no single exercise will ever be the be-all for physical conditioning.


Posted by: Haycock Kid

I haven't re-read all 17 pages, but I think since my last post to this thread - I've sold my treadmill, almost purchased a used bow flex, but purchased a new recumbent bike and a used total gym. Practicing yoga and tai chi on my own. Everything works but nothing works forever - been mixing up the routines for two months now - good leg and arm pump w/ total gym and cardio w/ bike - my endurance has improved, but we'll test it next month w/a week of riding in GA. With all the exercising - I'm toner but less flexible - need to do more yoga which is good for flexibility, but strength too. Anything is better than nothing - take a walk if you don't have time to ride...over fifteen years ago I trained w/a partner who was a friend of the fitness coach for the Dallas Cowboys - he would e-mail us routines - always cardio after resistance - never enough abs - balance drills to work the small muscles and large - also work front / back, and outside / inside muscle groups focused on upper and then lower - light weight high rep then heavy low rep and then speed drills like box jumps and more stretching - it is a real science to do it right. Now that I'm over 40 yo, I train w/ a polar heart rate monitor; it has greatly increased my performance. Or read forums about exercise and drink beer like me tonight...lifting 12 oz at a time.


Posted by: adam728

Quote:
Originally Posted by FruDaddy
My plan is 4 days per week mon, tue, thu, fri. I do 5-6 exersices each day, 3 sets each of 8-10 reps (70-85% of max weight) with 1-2 minutes between sets. It takes about half an hour, and I do half an hour of cardio on the treadmill.

I found several articles telling me that the cardio should be done after the resistance (if they are both done).


I finally joined a gym after moving out here to Tucson. Been going for a few weeks, spent the last two nights with a personal trainer, and he told me basically exactly what you just said. Break it up, and always do resistance first, cardio second.

I'm doing 5 days a week, basically I was told to do
Monday - Upper body
Tuesday - Abs & cardio
Wednesday - Lower body
Thursday - Abs & cardio
Friday - Upper body

Mon, Wed, Fri have the option of doing cardio after the resistance, which I am doing. I'm concentrating more on that and upper body right now because that's what kills me (there is ab stuff in the upper body routine too). I can run with fast guys on the bike for maybe 15-20 minutes, then I am all pumped up and out of breath, which is bad, because this weekend's race is 70+ miles of single track......

You want to see a grown man look retarded? Put him on one of those big stupid rubber balls for the first time trying to do crunchies. I felt so pathetic when the guy litterally had to catch me as I almost busted my head flipping off it.


Posted by: SpeedyManiac

I can relate. I started hitting the gym in February and those stability balls are difficult to get used to. Now, after a couple months I can finally balance on one no problem. I can definitely feel a huge improvement in my abs over the last two months.


Posted by: squeaky

I've still being going to the gym on and off, but with the weather getting better I've been trying to incorporate more outdoor activities. I went for a 45 minute hike the other day on some trails by my house, when about 35 minutes into the hike I saw an animal in the brush. I thought it was a deer - come to find out it was a coyote . Needless to say, I won't be walking those trails again until the coyote problem has been situated.

An hours worth of yard work burns about the same amount of calories as a 45 minute hike (with hills).

I've now decided that with summer coming I don't want to waste my time after work at the gym, so I'm going to start going for strictly cardio 3 time a week in the morning.


Posted by: FruDaddy

Lately, I have been mountain biking on my day off from the gym, and also on some afternoon/evenings (with the kids). An hour on the bike is a lot more fun than 30 minutes on a treadmill.

I'm glad to hear that you have found a good program that works for you.


Posted by: shadowsniper

i'm lookin to get into better shape too. one thing that has been working for me is better eating habbits and i have been taking some nutrilite supplements aswell to keep my body fully fueled up the vitamin nutrients and minerals it needs. it's called Double X and it's awsome. it's a little spendy but well worth the change. just by taking it i starting getting more energy and losing weight and felt better than i have for awhile. you can check it out if you want at LBDreams.Mychoices.Biz on top of the double X i've been walking more and and doin more physical activities which is workin out great.


Posted by: mg89

oh man, i'm pushing 270, i gotta do something. But it's weird, I still manage to get up in the air.


Posted by: Papakeith

270 turns to 300+ real quick. Ask me how I know

The only thing I've found that helps is regulating your portion size at mealtime, and finding good substitutes for the crap snacks that are out there. You know eat less, exercise more.

I'm just now getting back under 300 after doing WWatchers since just before Thanksgiving. 40 down, only another 100 to go.


Posted by: WaltCMoto

PK,
Take care of your self brother. 340 is like 2.2 BSwifts if my math serves me correctly. Your height indicates 1.7