Need exercise advice please

[KarenB]

I am in my late 40s and I have been very fortunate that in my younger years I could eat just about anything and still be at the weight I should be at. Well, now this is not so easy and I need to change a few things that I am doing as my age is catching up to me. I work full time and joining a gym is not an option right now. Now that it is getting warmer, I will be walking about an hour/day 3 days a week which I really enjoy.

Here is my goal that I need advice on reaching:
-loose 5 pounds
-find a simple at home toning routine
-continue to walk 3 times/week
-increase my metabolism
-feel better and regain more energy

I have looked on line for a simple toning routine and got quite overwhelmed. That is where I need my fellow DISer's to guide me. I want to alternate this with the days I walk, but it needs to be simple, 30 minutes max, and no equipment needed. Anyone have a list of exercises with simple descriptions that I could use?

Thanks for any help!
Karen

 

[moredisneyplease]

I know the gym is out as of now but can you invest in a resistance band at home or maybe some small handheld weights? If not, there is plenty to do without these items but they would sure widen your exercise choices. As for simple exercises, think of the basics:

Push ups (I like to use my kitchen counter top),
calf raises (holding on to the kitchen counter top),
tricep push ups (again with that kitchen counter top!),
basic crunches,
squats to a kitchen chair,
lunges,
side laying leg lifts (top) leg.

Just a few simple ideas! PM me if you have any questions about any of the above exercises!

 

[KarenB]

I know the gym is out as of now but can you invest in a resistance band at home or maybe some small handheld weights? If not, there is plenty to do without these items but they would sure widen your exercise choices. As for simple exercises, think of the basics:

Push ups (I like to use my kitchen counter top),
calf raises (holding on to the kitchen counter top),
tricep push ups (again with that kitchen counter top!),
basic crunches,
squats to a kitchen chair,
lunges,
side laying leg lifts (top) leg.

Just a few simple ideas! PM me if you have any questions about any of the above exercises!

Thanks for your suggestions-this is what I am looking for.Yes, investing in the bands and/or hand held weights are certainly an option. The reason a gym is out is a few reasons-time constraints, I have wasted $$ by joining in the past and not using it, minimal choices in the area I live in.

 

[Dawnie]

First, it's so unfair when what always worked for you does NOT work anymore!

I have not tried this workout yet, so I don't know how long it takes, but it looks like a really good overall workout with minimal equipment (exercise ball and hand weights). Also if you click on the name of each exercise it will show you a video of how to do it.

http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=174

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

You could go to your local library and look into some workout DVDs for toning like Pilates or Yoga. There are also books that woulld explain the list of exercises that are involved. That would be a great addition to your walking routine giving you the core strength you need. Once you've determined which cd you like you could look to buying your own. Used ones are usually available and you don't need more that the 20-30 minute variety if you continue with your walking.

Good luck getting yourself in control. It started for me at about 42 and has been a battle ever since. You are smart getting a handle on things before the handles grow on you.