Expert: Kim Farmer - 10/31/2008

Question
Just a few months back, I could use the exercise bike for 60-90 minutes without my leg muscles hurting. Now however, I can use the treadmill to run 2 miles but when I get off it and start pedalling on the bike, I can only go on for 3 or 4 minutes (!!) before my thighs feel like they're burning and I feel fatigued. I am extremely alarmed at this because surely someone who could do 90 mintues should be able to do more than FIVE?!

My sleeping pattern is messed up (I will either sleep too little or too much) and as I used to suffer from Anorexia, I have been binge eating a lot lately ( on thousands of calories) until I feel bloated and fat. I have gained half a stone due to this and it has been happening for 2 months.
I feel prepared to finally try and overcome this however, but if I can hardly exercise properly how will I once again tone up?
Please help me. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Michelle-
I'm wondering if your leg muscles are fatigued after using the treadmill for 2 miles because you are so used to using the bike?  You didn't mention if you were using the treadmill or not when you were using the bike for 60-90 minutes.  When you use the treadmill, your leg muslces are supporting all of your weight, so it is a completely different workout than the bike.  You may need to build up your time on the bike after using the treadmill from 4 minutes to 6 minutes to 10 minutes and so on.  You should also incorporate strength training exercises into your schedule to build strength in your leg muscles.

While I am no expert on eating disorders, I do know that it is controllable with proper diet and exercise.  I'm sure you already know that binge eating is not good for your health and it will possibly make you feel discouraged.  I would recommend seeking help from an eating disorder specialist for this one.

Sorry I couldn't help more, but thanks for the question.

Kim Farmer
ACE-Certified Personal Trainer
www.MileHighFitness.com