Just a quick question

[ChrisCHJ]

I just started going to the gym (mainly for weight loss) and as I don't drive and public transport is crap in my area, I have to walk 40-45 minutes to my gym. Today I did that and went to do some cardio on a spin bike and could only do 5 minutes before I was sweating buckets and out of breath. This was only my second session and during my last one I got 20 minutes down before needing to stop. What do you guys recommend? Do I wait a while before starting my workout or do other things before hitting cardio?

[ashland]

Many of the more knowledgeable fitness gurus recommend you do cardio after hitting the weights, so you haven't used up your energy reserves.

You're probably exerting yourself too much with the cardio, though, if you're having to stop so soon. Try going a little slower or decreasing the resistance on your bike.

[Spartanmuscle]

I would suggest since you already walk 40-45 minutes, you have done your cardio workout. Hit the weights man. We can chat more about it...Spartanmuscle.

[StephenStills]

Better to take a small rest and hit the weight because the heart rate will be affected.

[Mdlftr]

Originally Posted by ashland

Many of the more knowledgeable fitness gurus recommend you do cardio after hitting the weights, so you haven't used up your energy reserves.

You're probably exerting yourself too much with the cardio, though, if you're having to stop so soon. Try going a little slower or decreasing the resistance on your bike.

Agree. Since you're just starting, your body is adapting to new stress. Once it has hit its limit, it needs more oxygen, which is why you are gasping for breath. Don't quit. This is normal when you are getting used to a new routine. Pace yourself until you get a sense of what your body can tolerate, then gradually increase the time for cardio. The training effect will be such that after you've been lifting and doing cardio for a while, you will be able to tolerate more work.

Keep going. You've just started!


Mdlftr

[bigun]

Unless you need to loose a bunch of fat, I say your nearly hour and a half round trip to the gym is plenty of cardio. Once you get the gym, warm up, and hit the weights.