Cardio: What's my limit?

Dudess

Hey guys,

Well, since January I've been on a major healthy eating kick but not much exercise. Now I want to get cracking in that department with power-walking (including hilly bits). So, my question is, as a rather unfit person (not extremely unfit but certainly very far from fit) what would be over-doing it? I read Transform commenting last year that too much cardio can make a person look "hollowed-out" and aged. I'd like to get the maximum safe amount squeezed in every day but don't want to over-do it.

Cheers

g'em

It'll take a long time and a very sparse diet for someone to reach the "hollowed-out" look (think Teri Hatcher in those photos).

An hour of brisk walking four or five times a week should help you increase your cardio-fitness levels.

tribulus

Tbh I don't think there's any specific answer.

There's no threshold which once you pass you'll start to waste away or die of a heart attack etc.

I'd just do what you find to be a challenge and every week push yourself a bit harder either by going further or the same distance in a quicker time. You just have to figure out what that level or amount is for your own body.

Edit: lol at what the link says.

Dudess

Cheers guys!

I hope to go for a 40-minute outdoor walk at lunchtime and another one after work. I'll increase the amount of walking at the weekends, and in the evenings as the days get longer.

When I've shrunk enough but there are still bits to firm up, I plan to attend pilates (with weights), yoga and dance classes (went to a dance class recently - you can't be in any way unfit for those damn things!)

xebec

g'em wrote: »

It'll take a long time and a very sparse diet for someone to reach the "hollowed-out" look (think Teri Hatcher in those photos).

I've never seen that photo before, it's horrible!! Bring back her Superman days!!

Dudess wrote: »

Cheers guys!

I hope to go for a 40-minute outdoor walk at lunchtime and another one after work. I'll increase the amount of walking at the weekends, and in the evenings as the days get longer.

When I've shrunk enough but there are still bits to firm up, I plan to attend pilates (with weights), yoga and dance classes (went to a dance class recently - you can't be in any way unfit for those damn things!)

Sounds like a good plan. Just remember to listen to your body, if it feels like it can't do any more then don't always force it - but if you're just feeling lazy, they're the best days to get the walking shoes on! And don't forget to take a break every few days, it's good to take a rest and let your body recuperate for a day. Best of luck!

Dudess

Noted. Many thanks xebec!

Edit: Oh just remembered this new thanking function dealie. Consider yourselves rightly thanked!