Expert: Ken Alan - 9/30/2006

Question
Hi there, my name is Leanne and I am 18 years old. I've always been active in sports, except for this year, where I am not on any sports teams. I have gained weight, and want to get back into my former fit self. I don't actually know how to work out, and what burns fat... all I've ever done is sports, and they worked for me. I don't want to get back into sports this year, but I do have a gym membership and am eager to use it. My questions are:

What are more beneficial, treadmills or eliptical machines?
How long/fast should I go on these machines in order for it to be beneficial, and burn fat?
How long till I'd be able to see results?
How often should I go?
If I don't feel comfortable using weights, will running then doing muscle activities work? Right now I run for half an hour, then do 150 crunches.
Lastly, if I want to burn fat off my stomach, hips, butt, what is the best way to do that?

I know this is a lot to answer, but I am so lost, and it would be soooo helpful. Thanks alot!


Answer
What are more beneficial, treadmills or eliptical machines?
Both are good.  One is not more beneficial than the other.

How long/fast should I go on these machines in order for it to be beneficial, and burn fat?
From 20-45 minutes.  But shorter is okay too, if you do it more frequently.  For example, 10 minutes at a time, 3 times a day.  If you only have a short time, it's better than nothing at all.

How long till I'd be able to see results?
Depends on how consistent you are and your eating habits.  Can't say unless I know those things.

How often should I go?
Depends.  If you're running on the treadmill, no more than every other day.  If you're walking on the treadmill or using the eliptical, 5-6 days per week is okay.  Keep impact activity to every other day maximum.  Low or non impact activity can be done every day if desired.


If I don't feel comfortable using weights, will running then doing muscle activities work? Right now I run for half an hour, then do 150 crunches.
Running will develop some muscle strength and tone in your legs, but if you want your legs to be stronger or firmer, you'll need to do strength training.  Crunches are good for your abdominals, but you are not getting any other muscle groups - arms, chest, shoulders, back, buttocks. If you're happy with the rest of your body, you don't have to do weights or strength training.  If you're not, or want to be stronger or have more muscle tone, do strength training.  This will also help you lose more excess fat.

Lastly, if I want to burn fat off my stomach, hips, butt, what is the best way to do that?  Cardio exercise - any.  And monitor your caloric intake.

Hope this helps.  Glad you're motivated to do something.   Keep it up.