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Original poster

What's the best form of exercise?

28 replies

PeppaPigWorld · 21/04/2025 23:06

Just wondering what would get me the best results and be easy to incorporate into a busy life?

I walk quite a lot and am not totally unfit but could be fitter and I definitely need toning. I want something I'll enjoy and stick to but which doesn't take too long or costs too much. For example, I love swimming but find that by the time I've driven to and from the pool, showered, washed and dried my hair.etc. it's all too time consuming and doesn't really seem to do much for my fitness.anyway. I used to run (love/hate relationship with running) but I wonder if there's something better out there for me than running. I'm not a gym person (would rather be outside with the dog). I keep hearing about strength training but I don't know where to start. Would love some suggestions on which type of exercise would yield the most results!

OP posts:
PoppyBaxter · 22/04/2025 04:01

If you like walking, get yourself a weighted vest.

I've got a 12lb one and wear it for all hikes, but you could just wear it to power walk around the streets for 30 minutes (or whatever you can fit in).

CherryBlossomPie · 22/04/2025 03:19

I love swimming too and still do it now and then but more for fun. Like a lido or sea dip now and then.

For efficiency honestly you can't beat weight training. But you need to get to lifting heavy to see results. I always say , if it feels boring you are not lifting heavy enough. Some gyms do 6 week group programmes 3 times a week. The way I got into it was just trying the gym classes like spin and body con, went regularly then they got too easy so I got curious about the gym, started that then had a free PT session, then did weekly PT sessions and a programme for six months. I've not done it for a while but still retained the muscle mass I built.

However as you say you don't like the gym...

WishUponAStar88 · 22/04/2025 03:17

The best for results is whatever you will stick to so whatever you enjoy!

Caroline Girvan on YouTube has done great strength training videos - a couple of dumbbells would be great but you can start with body weight.

With having a dog I’d definitely consider running and them join you if able! I run lots but never without the dog (other than races) so we both get worn out! She loves it. Couch to 5km is a great starting point - either by yourself or lots of running clubs to beginner running groups. Park Run is also great - don’t be intimidated, lots of people walk the whole thing it’s very much not a race. Runners/ walkers with dogs are welcome there too!

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