Hi from DeeDee

[DeeDee]

Hi, I am not new to fitness by all means, but I am new to wanting a healthy lifestyle not just a diet & exercise routine. I currently take a class at the gym because I am new enough to weight training that I am still not sure the types of exercises that should be combined. I would like to workout 5 times a week but no more than an hour at a time and 30 minutes would be perfect.

I learn quickly and have really good form according the the trainer at the gym that teaches the class. Any suggestions?

[cassy07]

Hey!!! Welcome to the forum!

Are you looking to build muscle everyday or just exercise?

[slysara]

Welcome to the forum.

[DeeDee]

Thanks! A little of both. I really want to tone everything. I like to work every or most muscle groups every time. I get bored just working one or two at a time.

[DeeDee]

I said I like to work out most muscle groups every time and then I read an article on this site that says it's not a good idea. What I really want to do is strengthen my core and tone up EVERYTHING. I love cardio but I am one of those people that need either a class or a video. Something I can move along with.
I think if I had something good put together for me I could follow it but I don't know what muscle groups to work together. For instance Monday do 3 exercises for bis and 3 for upper thighs and some intense cardio.

Please help!

[CindyPTN]

Hi Dee Dee,

It sounds like you would really enjoy a circuit training routine. If your gym offers a Boot Camp style workout or a strength/cardio class, then you might want to give that a try. For any strength training routines, you only need to work the muscles 3 times a week. Some people break up their routines were they focus on arms one day and legs the next, but then you'll need to dedicate 5 to 6 days to weight training. In 30 minutes you can hit all your major muscle groups and combine cardio. I just did an article on this for a home workout, but you can apply the same principles to the different exercise machines at the gym. I'm sure RWF has a couple of articles about it too.

Home Circuit Workout for All Moms

When picking exercises, look for the opposites. Most gyms have machines that show the muscles. You want to work both sides. For instance, biceps/triceps (front side of arm/back side of arm), abdominals (core)/Back, quadriceps/hamstrings (front/back upper leg), etc. The machines will give you ideas if you want to do dumbbells or bands instead.
Once you get the hang of the weight training, you're going to love it.

[slysara]

That's a good article Cindy, thanks for posting.