I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Originally I was doing the 20 minute power mile video (walk away the pounds) with 2 pound weights and yoga for 45 minutes. I was doing this three days a week, but I felt like it was to light and that I wasn't really going to benefit from this in terms of weight loss. So I stopped this.

I started riding my stationary bike this week. I did 30 minutes on Monday- I did 5 miles and burned 325 calories. Today I did another 30 minutes on the bike and went 6.5 miles and burned 380 calories.

Since I have not exercised regularly in a long time (exercise and I are trying to become friends after a long rocky hate-hate relationship
) Do you think doing this bike riding for 30 minutes 3 times per week is an ok start?

I am really trying to develop a more active lifestyle and have never been a fitness person, so sadly enough, I am not very good at deciding how much activity is the right amount . . . . TIA

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

I think that you've got a decent start; as you become more accustomed to the 30 minutes, gradually increase time and resistance to make it more challenging.
Also, don't stick to the same routine for too long - your body will get used to it, so try to mix it up with other types of cardio.

I suggest that you incorporate strength training into your routine. Do you have access to free weights or weight machines?

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

I do have access to free weights . . . . how much weight should I start with?

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

I'm not a trainer, so I don't want to give you any wrong advice, but I think that you should choose a weight (say 8 lbs) and try to do 2-3 sets (12-15 reps) of biceps curls. If the muscle feels fatigued after those sets, stick with that weight for a bit (since it will get easier) and then try to move up to 10 pounds weights.

I've been on this website, sparkpeople.com, and it's great for suggesting different strength moves - it keeps me from only doing the sames moves all of the time.

I hope that I was able to help in some way.

Good luck!

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Thank you! This is a great help!

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Sounds like a good start. I know that I can get very bored doing the same thing over and over again. Now that it is nice out maybe you can go walking or running outside 1-2 times per week and do the bike, videos, and weights at home. I like varitey, plus you will feel it in different muscles.

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

just wanted to add - lift weights slowly. don't rush through the set.

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Thanks! I did 2 sets of 12 bicep curls as a start using an 8 pound dumbbell. I was fine with my right arm, but I get through about 6 using my left and I feel like I can't do anymore. I somehow made it through on the left side, but it was definitely not easy- I have no strength in my left arm . . . .

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

i'm the same way, maybe b/c i'm right handed, i can do more with my left arm...

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

I have These Dumbbells .
I love them because I can adjust the weight for each different muscle group.
I also like to use a mirror when doing arms to make sure you are keeping the right form.

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

I got them today! Thanks for the suggestion!

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

Thanks- that is a great site. How many reps and sets of each of those do you do and how aften?

Re: I have started an exercise routine . . . (come critique please!)

These websites and tips are great thanks everyone!