AboutLinda Erwin, M.S. Expertise Been teaching Aerobics since 1987 and have been an aerobic director in the past. I also have a solid background in nutrition.
Question I am a 22 year old woman on a weight loss program (weight watchers). I currently weight about 265lbs and I'm 5'6". I have recently attended my first Zumba class. The class was fun, but I didnt feel as if my heart rate was as high in comparison to my 25 min Elliptical workout. How does the hour Zumba class stack up to the 1/2 hour Elliptical workout in terms of calories burned, stress on my body, and overall results?
Also...the machines at my gym do not factor in weight during cardio workouts. After my two miles (takes about 25 minutess on a level 4 resistance) on the Elliptical it shows roughly 200 calories. At my weight, what is a more reasonable estimation?
Answer Hi Chelsi,
I don't know what a Zumba class is so I can't comment on that. What you need to focus on to lose weight is time spent in cardio....go for at least 45-60 minutes 4-5 times per week. Some of those days can be at 70-75% of your max heart rate and the other days at 80-85%. Exertion and time will help you lose those lbs.
It takes time to gain that amount of weight and it will take longer to get it off. Time goes by anyway so don't worry about how many calories you burn during exercise. Think about parking farther away, take stairs, and move around as much as possible. We burn calories all day so watch your food and water intake, stay active, and only weigh when you go to Weight Watchers.
It's all about a lifestyle change that will be permanent or the weight will return. Good luck!
Linda
