You've purchased a new gym membership, bought a snazzy new workout outfit and are ready to get started. You step one foot inside the gym and realize that while you know you're there to work out, you haven't the slightest idea what the best workout for you is. While there are countless different workouts to be had at the gym, you must figure out which exercises are best tailored to your strengths, weaknesses and fitness goals.
How Much of Each Type
According to the National Library of Medicine, you should get 2-½ hours of aerobic activity each week, along with doing strength training at least two days of the week. While you may not have time to get both cardio and strength training in during each visit to the gym, breaking it up can be just as effective. For example, do cardio -- such as using a treadmill or elliptical -- on the first day then follow up with strength training on your next visit.
Exercise For Your Body
While you want to do a variety of exercises that work multiple muscles, you should also aim to exercise according to your body type. If you're tall and thin, focus more on strength training to strengthen your muscles and prevent injury. If you already have a muscular build, focus on cardio to keep those muscles in top shape and shed fat.
Cardio Versus Strength Training
If you want to burn some extra calories, cardio exercises can burn up to 12 calories per minute, whereas lifting weights churns around 10 calories per minute. Cardio is also a means by which you can get rid of that extra stress that you've been carrying around. Still, don't disregard strength training, which strengthens bones and muscles and can boost your metabolism so you burn more calories even when not exercising.
What Works for You
In most gyms, there are numerous machines that offer cardio and strength-training exercises. Determining which ones you use depends on personal preference. For example, if you're exceptionally short or tall, some of the weight machines may not feel comfortable, so you'd be better off using free weights. The same goes for cardio machines; for some, treadmill running can lead to blisters, and for others, a bicycle seat may be uncomfortable after a few minutes. Try a variety of apparatuses and form a routine through trial and error.
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