Just starting out

[Aaron237]

I just realized I should maybe post questions here instead of my intro thread.

new to fitness. 20 years old, male, 170 lbs (180 a couple weeks ago) aprox. 5'8".

I'm not sure what kind of cardio is best, so far I have been going to the local park (which is very hilly) and keep up a brisk walk. Whenever there is an upward hill I run. For flat parts and downward inclines I walk (quickly) Is this kind of "stop and go" workout good or bad?

Thanks

 

[Jynus]

I just realized I should maybe post questions here instead of my intro thread.

new to fitness. 20 years old, male, 170 lbs (180 a couple weeks ago) aprox. 5'8".

I'm not sure what kind of cardio is best, so far I have been going to the local park (which is very hilly) and keep up a brisk walk. Whenever there is an upward hill I run. For flat parts and downward inclines I walk (quickly) Is this kind of "stop and go" workout good or bad?

Thanks

the "best" kind of cardio is whatever pushes you to _your_ limits. Meaning you know your limits, push them, rest then try to beat them next time you give it a go. Set goals for yourself, and work towards beating them imo. A good way to chart cardio progress.

 

[jogalong]

At least you're getting out and exercising! That's a great start. Find out you target heart rate and stay any where from 50%-75% if you haven't been exercising for very long (only a few weeks?). If you've been exercising for a month or more try staying within 65% to 85% during your brisk walks and that will help you burn the fat more effectively as long as you're exercising for longer than 30 minutes at a time. After 30 minutes the body metabolizes fat so 30 or more minutes of moderate exercise (walking, jogging, running) within your heart rate zone will get you results. Of course, eat well and not lots of junk, sugar or salt since that won't help you progress.

I jog to lose weight and created a site about my experience () with lots of helpful information about jogging that I've read and learned from my personal experience. Good luck!