Hello, I have been reading the topics and see there are alot of clued up people in regards to exercise and diet. I would love to hear your opinions on what the best exercise plan would be for me. I am 161cm tall (approx 5 feet), I weigh 60 Kilos, (approx 135lb). I think 53 kilos would be ideal weight but not too fussed on weight, I care more about how jeans fit. I'm definitely feeling a little on the plump side, I'm also wobbly, not toned at all
What I want to achieve
I want to tone up whole body, lean it out if possible (am I dreaming?). Especially butt and thighs I have naturally nice lower legs with nice muscle definition... must be genetic because I haven't done much to tone them at all but then the thighs and butt need some serious work
I'm currently doing pilates 3 times a week and have only been doing it for 1 month. I have diet pretty well looked after and I walk alot. I'm willing to work out hard to achieve results, I just need some advice on what exercises and when I should be doing them to help me. I would really appreciate your opinions... thank you.
If you want to lose fat, you need to do some cardio (walking doesn't count). If you can fit in even 10 - 20 minutes of running/jogging or 30 - 45 minutes of biking (intense) or elliptical a day, five days a week, then you will see some major changes in your body.
I personally recommend running. You will probably not be able to run for the entire time when you first start, so its okay if you have to slow down to a fast paced walk to catch your breath, then start running again. Just work up to running the entire time. you'll get there faster than you'd expect.
If running isnt your thing or you have bad knees, then, if you have the space, bike. If you are a member of a gym, you could always try the elliptical machine. Jump roping is also an excellent way to drop the pounds.
the point is you have to sweat. if your not tired and need to shower after the end of your workout, then your not finished with it. the pilates you are doing is definitely a good thing, and its good for toning your core muscles, but it will do nothing for any fat you might have.
as for when to do them, it really doesn't matter. if it's easier to work out in the morning, then do it then. if the evening or afternoon is better for you, then that's when you should do it. If you do run though, wait at least an hour after you eat to do it. your stomach may not be very happy with you otherwise.
If you want a toned look, you need to factor in some weight lifting into your plan (dont worry about getting buff. if you are not on steroids, then you've got nothing to worry about there). the pilates should do a lot for toning around your midsection. for your butt, try some squats.
