How do you choose your exercise program?

[lajones81]

I'm curious to learn how others choose what types of exercise they do, how often, etc.

Personally, I really can't stand to run. I really try hard to like running, but it never works. I love to go on daily walks and swim, but am looking to shake things up a bit. Thoughts, suggestions, etc. are very much appreciated!

 

[disneychrista]

I do a lot of walking. I do out side walking. And I also do Walk Away the Pounds/Leslie Sansone In Home Walking. I love both.

I also try to do 20 min 3 X a week of strength training. For this I am using the Biggest Loser.

 

[tiggerlover]

In a way my exercise program picked me. I am not a big exerciser, but knew I was at a point in my journey where I needed it. A card came in the mail for Curves offering a free three week fitness study. I went and checked it out and found I liked the ease of a thirty minute workout three times a week and I was hooked. A month later I have seen some great results so I am so glad I stepped up to the plate.

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

I looked for something I could do that was convenient. I may not exactly like to exercise either. I have found that if I treat it as something I MUST do, schedule the time, and try to make it convenient that I mostly will do the deeds.

That said, I enjoy being outside so walking/jogging (Really a combo=wogging) is what I like. I have a Bally's Total Fitness 2 miles from my home so that is convenient and I schedule my time there too.

I WISH you success in figuring out what works for you. By your clippies, it seems you have indeed found a good path. Congratulations!

 

[NeverlandClub23]

I love classes because they make me feel like it's something I have to do (instead of putting it off for later like going to the gym). I recently signed up for a 10 week Pilates class one night a week for $80 and I love it! It made me want to start walking 3-4 times a week and now I truly enjoy any healthy activity and am starting to watch what I eat more and more. I go to the gym a lot more now too! On my days off work I go to one of our local parks that rent kayaks ($2 an hour) and spend several hours out on a quiet lake paddling around. I loved it so much I'm buying a kayak this week!

I'm also considering taking some dance or karate classes too. Really just find something you enjoy doing and don't worry about how many calories you're burning, just have fun.

 

[ohMom]

i also am a 'powerwalker'. i used to run but developed tendonitis and then realized i enjoy walking much more! I follow John Bingham's training programs for events, and signing up for events really helps me stay in the program

otherwise -- i have access to a fantastic fitness center through DH work, so for $5 a month i can't justify NOT utilizing it. when i can't get there, i bought some workout DVDs to do at home. For those I checked some out from my library to find what i liked best. Also FitTV, if you have it, is another place to try out at-home workouts. Try to find a workout person you like (Denise Austin, etc)

 

[tunisia_x]

My friend i believe exercise alone may enable you to lose inches, but dieting and/or watching what kinds of foods you eat, will enable you to lose the weight. Walking at a fast, swift pace, running, and using the treadmill are some of the best sources for losing weight. But eating an ice cream cone while doing these routines just won't cut it!

 

[NeverlandClub23]

But eating an ice cream cone while doing these routines just won't cut it!

So that's what I've been doing wrong!

 

[kwsoccerkid]

It can be done at any time of the day, things you like to do.
That way you stay with a program.

I like to walk so I walk every chance I get.
I also like to change where I walk, so I bought a annual pass
to my local zoo and go there once a week.
If it rains you can go to your local mall.

 

[lajones81]

Thanks for all of these great ideas! You all inspire me!

 

[newholidayx2]

for me its a combination of my work schedule (M-F 930-5) and the gym class schedule that dictates what classes i attend

M & W morn I get up early for a 6am HiLo step class
Mon night Yoga
Wed night Kickboxing & Pilates
Thurs night Instructors choice
Fri night Strength training
Sat morn Kickboxing & Cardio/Step

I walk at least 30mins day whether its outside or on the treadmill
I was doing the 8 Cybex machines when I first joined the gym but havent done that in a while. We do alot of weights (bar & hand) in the classes.

 

[r3ngels]

Tennis... I love it.

I also so some Pilates classes with a group of friends.

Then on the off days I have some weights and DVD's