Cycling or running for weight loss, fat busting and general wellbeing?

[NinjagoNinja]

I'm not great at running. I mean, I can do it (who can't?) but I have to stop frequently, I have little stamina. Plus my pelvic floor doesn't like it and I worry it's bad for the knees.

How about cycling? Is it as effective? I reckon I go for miles without stopping on a bike.

I cycle a bit (four miles a day plus one or two long cycles a week of 2-3 hours) and I've actually gained weight since I started. I used to walk a lot more, and I think cycling two miles is much less of a workout than walking two miles. My legs are stronger and I absolutely love the freedom it gives me as I don't drive, but unless you're doing lots of hills and super speedy long distances I'm not sure it's great for weight loss.

When I used to run regularly I looked leaner, though didn't lose any weight.

I've lost more weight with cycling but that's because I hated running and kept getting injured where as I can happily cycle for 60km regularly. You need to combine it with healthy eating and not have too many cake stops though. I think regularly weighing yourself and cutting down on unnecessary stuff on an evening is important. I go to the gym as well for muscle tone to do core strength and arm stuff, plus yoga because cycling contracts your leg muscles

Those of you who do weight training at home, what sort of equipment do you need?

This is so useful and interesting. Thanks all.

I do 3x 30 mins HIIT training and this strength session 2x per week

I use 2 x 2kg weights and 2 x 5lb ones, but could do with a heavier set eg 10lb each. I read that HIIT combined with strength is the best thing for fat burning/weight loss, whereas cardio is about heart health. Have also lost 3.5 stone on SlimmingWorld - PPs are right. Weight loss is more diet than exercise.

For people just starting with weights at home, low weights high reps can be achieved with tins of tomatoes :-)