I have started going to the gym at work during lunch. I have 30 minutes. What would you suggest as the best workout for the time allotted? Currently, I use the Lifecycle for 18 minutes and then spend eight to ten minutes on the fitness machines. I have been going three to five days per week since the first week of January and although I feel better, I really can’t see any difference yet. Any help would be appreciated.
Congratulations on taking the most difficult step in any exercise plan — finding a convenient time and place to exercise consistently.
My advice to you is this: Spending the first 20 minutes either on the stationary bike or the treadmill (at a three to five percent incline, walking three to four miles per hour) is a good idea. Finish off your workout using the weight equipment, including upper-body exercises — especially triceps (back of arms), shoulders, chest, and back.
For your lower body, concentrate on the quads (front of thighs), hamstrings (back of thighs), along with gluteal (butt) and inner-thigh exercises. Spend a few minutes doing abdominal exercises. You may not be able to fit all of this into your 30 minute routine, but be organized, and vary the exercises so you hit each area at least once a week.
Good luck and don’t give up too soon. It’s hard to say how long it will take to see your results, but you are on the right track and you just need to hang in there.