NavymomT's Journal, 28 April 2016

He also told me that if i wanted to use the machines to help me lose weight, not to do them too slow. doing them slow was to build muscles more than to lose weight. Any thoughts on that one? 

Building muscle = fat loss. By increasing your muscle mass, you increase your metabolism, so even when you aren't doing anything, you will be burning more calories.  

Personally, I think strength training is far superior than cardio for fat loss. And don't worry about 'getting bulky' (although there is absolutely nothing wrong with muscled women). It takes huge amounts of work for women to put on a ton of muscle.  

It's good that you found a trainer you like - it makes a world of difference. Good luck, baby steps my friend. Just think how you will feel in a month... 

I suppose if you do the exercises faster they would have an aerobic effect and thus help burn calories. My personal take on it (being a bit older)is that we do lose muscle with age, and being stronger will make you more likely to want to move your body and more muscle does indeed (as notelaine said) improve your metabolism. I've been doing the treadmill because I want to have more stamina and be able to hike this summer, not in hopes of having it help with weight loss. At some point I'll get to those machines as my arm and shoulder strength could definitely stand improvement. ;)  

@NM What exercise do you most enjoy? 

@Elaine Preach, Girl! +1 

Should have said what "type of exercise" 

I think I agree with your trainer. It has been 25 years since I had any experience with gym workouts and 12% body fat. But, if not mistaken, intensity = stamina and endurance. These will aid you in weight loss. Just don't be discouraged the first few weeks if the scales doesn't move. Taking measurements will be a better tool for measuring your success. BTW, I'm very impressed with you going to the gym. Keep it up. Warm regards, Sarah 

@JP - so far i am liking all the ones i am currently doing. i really liked the leg press that he showed me last night. I like the ab machine (similar to doing crunches except seated). the treadmill is ok. I think i would rather walk outside then on the treadmill. when i first started on it, i liked it but i think walking outside is better. dont know for sure. 

@Note - i think i might go more with the machines and stuff than with the treadmill. i do walk a good bit at work and i can always take my tennis shoes and walk at lunch time. or maybe switch it up at the gym...a couple of nights on the treadmill and a couple of nights on the machines. Been doing this for a month and still cant make up my mind....uuuugggghhhhhh 

Haha, to be fair, I still change my mind often as to what I should be doing. It's a continuous learning process. But in general, strength training 3 times per week should get you seeing and feeling some positive results.  

@NM - If you dig it, you'll do it. That's most important. I am hearing you say you like to walk, especially outside. I encourage you to pursue that. Walk more, walk further, find new interesting places to walk, see how far you can go, etc. Plus walking is genius for weight loss. Throw in the machines 2-3 times a week, and you're good to go. 

@NM - Also, please always bear in mind, results are 80% diet, 20% everything else.  

thanks JP 

So inspired by your dedication, Navymom! 

Thanks T64 

Great comments above...some sort of resistance training is pretty important, whether lifting weights, using machines or body weight based (TRX, Pilates, etc) is personal preference. Walking is really underrated as an exercise and is easily doable by most people, almost anywhere.