Please help: I've just started exercising a new way, but is it a good idea?!
Question: Basically I want to tone up my overall fitness, both aerobically and in terms of upper-body strength. I am more interested in being robustly fit rather than looking good.
The other day I went for a hike at a brisk pace on roads, wearing a tracksuit and running trainers, and carrying a rucksack filled with 16kgs of weights (about 35lbs I think).
Is this good? If not what should I change? And what sort of exercise is this, what am I helping?
Thanks!
Answers: Basically I want to tone up my overall fitness, both aerobically and in terms of upper-body strength. I am more interested in being robustly fit rather than looking good.
The other day I went for a hike at a brisk pace on roads, wearing a tracksuit and running trainers, and carrying a rucksack filled with 16kgs of weights (about 35lbs I think).
Is this good? If not what should I change? And what sort of exercise is this, what am I helping?
Thanks!
Body weight exercises are great for strenght. Pushups pullups, handstand pushes etc. Add some cardio and off you go. Doing what you are doing is mainly cardio & legs.
Why is everyone scared to lift weights?? I love it, you should feel the endorphin rush you get, and being powerfully strong is great for your confidence. I also love the challenge of lifting weights and the inner peace it brings, just switch your mind off and work hard!
you should not carry any weights or even ankle weights.
all you are doing is putting a strain on your heart.
lift weights in the gym only.
Change the mass for something useful like a couple of aqua packs full of isotonic fluid, As you walk you drink, then as you get further the weight diminishes until you run out, so you start off fresh with a full load and full of energy ; then as you get tired you reduce the load naturally.
You'll find that you will extend your endurance a lot quicker than by carrying dull loads.