Weights compared to sit-ups/push-ups

[MichaDE]

Hello all!

I recently gained some weight and I am looking to get in better, leaner shape. However, I really do not want to gain muscle mass, so to speak. I was just wondering how doing sit-ups and push-ups would compare to using various machines at a gym? I have been exercising again daily for about a few weeks. My routine as of now in my free time consists generally of 45 minutes of cycling on a bicycle trainer and been trying to do sit-ups and push-ups again (unfortunately, I am not to wear I should be with those rep numbers )

Thanks a bunch in advanced!

 

[Steve]

Hello all!

I recently gained some weight and I am looking to get in better, leaner shape. However, I really do not want to gain muscle mass, so to speak.

What makes you think you will gain muscle?

I was just wondering how doing sit-ups and push-ups would compare to using various machines at a gym?

Not very well.

Calisthenics = exercises using bodyweight.

Calisthenics are fine, assuming you follow a balanced plan and progress in terms of intensity. Doing solely pushups and situps though would not be balanced.

It also seems like you're operating under the assumption that machines build muscles and bodyweight exercises do not. Is this accurate?

If so, that is flawed thinking.

I have been exercising again daily for about a few weeks. My routine as of now in my free time consists generally of 45 minutes of cycling on a bicycle trainer and been trying to do sit-ups and push-ups again (unfortunately, I am not to wear I should be with those rep numbers )

Diet is going to be the primary driving factor in your weight loss.

What does your diet look like. The exercise simply adds icing to the cake. What's a cake without the actual cake?

Cake = Diet

 

[edco76]

Pretty much what Steve said lol.

Don't worry about gaining muscle mass. Its pretty hard to do as a woman anyway and if your diet is what it should be you will be in a caloric deficit, making it harder if not impossible.
If you prefer body weight exercises, you shouldnt have any problems obtaining your goals by their use. Just educate yourself and make sure you are making the decision for the right reason.
Meaning:
"I am limiting myself to pushups and situps because I don't want to get all bulky" = uneducated, bad decision.
" I enjoy doing calisthenics in the comfort of my home and feel I have a plan to obtain my fitness goals without aid of a gym or equipment" = good decision.