new workout/cardio routine, help please :)

[Mary]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone here could help me put together a good workout/cardio routine. I was using my friends treadmaill over the winter, but shes back now and is coming to pick it up on Tuesday. So, I'm left with my Heavybag, Total Gym 1500, Free weights, rubber bands,and a workout ball. I'm used to using the treadmaill, heavybag, and gym for about an hour each. I usually do some type of cardio 6 days a week and using my gym for 4-5 days a week. I'll be starting college in June. I'll start at 9am and go till 4:30pm for 5 days a week. I'm up for anything challenging. Thanks for your help

[CF-OC_gal]

HI Mary. What are your fitness goals?

[Mary]

well, I'll have to say that my goals are all about keeping my leg and stomach in shape.. If I use weights to keep my legs toned, they tend to bulk up. So, I'd use the treadmail and heavybag for that. I would usually jog/run about 3-4miles 6days a week. My stomach isn't too bad.. My top abs are pretty tight and you can see some shape in them when I keep up with my crunches, but my lower abs are harder for me to keep. I'd like to be able to get my legs smaller and my abs tighter. So, if you could help me out with a workout/cardio routine that will help my improve my trouble spots, that would help me out a lot I know that diet it pretty much everything when it comes to abs. I'm worried that once the treadmil is gone and I start college that I won't have the time to workout for as long as I've been.

Oh yeah, as far as my upper body I'd like to be able to do more then 1 pull up, lol.. I'm getting a climbing rope to hang up outside as well.. I'm hoping that will help?

[CF-OC_gal]

It sounds like you were getting the results you wanted with the routine you were following before. So, you just need a replacement for the treadmill. If you are going to college they will likely have a gym with a cardio room. Get in early and book your time. If that is not convenient how about getting a bicycle? For personal safely, see if there is a club you can join so you don't end up alone on a bikepath or secluded area of the campus.

Keeping up with the running could also be useful. Again don't ignore your personal safety.

If you are trying to target the appearance of tone in your lower abs and legs then rember that the body fat issues are spot reduction issues. We all know the drill in answer to that one. You may or may not get smaller legs. Just stay consistent and you will see results.

Don't forget to change up the routine you do every 4-6 weeks. If you get inot a rut you'll see diminishing returns.

Good luck with your studies and don't fall into the student lifestyle too hard!

[Mary]

thanks for the help I've been thinking about getting a bike since the weather has been getting nice out! my boyfriend loves to bike so I'll just get him to go with me and call it a date I'll be sure to stay safe as well :

[CF-OC_gal]

Sounds great! : Stick around and let us know how you are doing.

[Mary]

I'll be sure to do that