Wanted: compact and effective excercise equipment

[TenThousandVolts]

Hi all- I am just trying to get fit. I have yoyoed between 145-160 pounds since the birth of my baby- who is now 3.5 years old.

For the past week I have ben walking 3 miles a day and loving it. But I am looking ahead and as the weather gets cold I can see myself needing an in-home peice of equipment. But we are very limited on space here- I had to get rid of my treadmill- it was just too big. I am hoping for something that wil get me moving but is compact or can be folded/unfolded easily- storable in closet or under the bed preferably. Is there any such product out there.

 

[ohMom]

hi 10,000 and to WISH! you have just found what you are looking for to get healthy and stay motivated through those cold months!

walking everyday is a GREAT way to burn calories and boost your metabolism. did you know though, that as your body becomes accustomed to your exercise, it becomes more effecient which in turn makes your workout LESS effective? just an FYI - that's why it's a fantastic plan to shake things up and keep your body guessing.

i don't have any compact machine ideas for you -- sorry -- but if you are a walker you may like Leslie Sanson's Walk Away the Pounds DVDs. Check your library to see if there are any you can try out first. I have a few, the Advanced 5 miler is the most challenging I think. It also has 2 different 3 mile routines. It does include hand weights, stretch band, and her walk belt but they aren't necessary. I have modified with what i already had. Another DVD i LOVE is Denise Austin's Shrink your Female Fat Zones. You'll need a stability ball for it, and hand weights, but it's a fab toning workout.

beyond that I like to try different pilates and yoga DVDs

good luck! let us know what you decide on!

 

[JMD]

A bench and a set of adjustable dumbells would be perfect. Its relatively compact and very effective.

 

[riaesq]

DDR! (Dance Dance Revolution) Seriously! Mats can go behind the sofa when not in use. Playstation,Xbox or Game Cube can be acquired inexpensively now that the super-tech ones are out.
Fun workouts that you can set up to increase in difficulty as you progress; you can even track calories burned. Wear a pedometer and see how quickly you dance thru the miles.