Check Out This Site for Calorie Count

My friend Arnold wanted to know how he can tell how many calories are burned in a workout. Fantastic question! I responded that it depends on the type of workout, the duration of the workout, one's weight, and the level of exertion used. Of course, that wasn't the most helpful answer. I may as well have told him, "Got no clue, buddy!" So I did a little research and found a helpful site:

http://www.fitwatch.com/database/searchexdb.html

Using their database, you can plug in your weight and the length of time to specific exercises and get an estimate for calories burned. I cannot vouch for its accuracy, but then again, even the machines at the gym aren't 100% reliable. But it can give one an idea of what exercises are the best calorie burners.

So thanks, Arnold, for asking this question. Now go out and burn off some calories!

Friday's Workout-New Structure

Today, after my ten minutes of warm-up, I went through the usual drill of machine weights (including my fave, the leg abductor/adductor), all the arm machines were in use. I figured today was as good a day as any to try out the free weights.

Here's what I hate about free weights: they are usually found in a room with very muscular men and women who look like they are training for a weightlifting competition. The good part? All the 3 and 5 pound weights are free for use. (Another play on the term "free weights," perhaps?) I grabbed a 5-pounder and tried to look like I knew what I was doing.

First, I stood feet shoulder width apart (it seems all exercises begin like this, so I figured it seemed correct), and extended my arms out so they were in line with my shoulders. I then lifted my arms up and down slowly ten times. Then I used a weight bench and placed one knee on it, and one arm with my palm flat against it (as if leaning over the bench) and I pulled my arm back to work my triceps. Then I did curls. I have to say...these worked my arms much more than the weight machines. I found a site that has fairly simple yet effective arm exercises: http://www.shape.com/fitness/toned-arms-in-record-time?page=1

These are perfect for slipping in during lunch breaks. They don't take a lot of time, yet they will sculpt you like nobody's business!

Anyhow, after the weights and some ab work (of which I could use more of), I went onto the Precor and did a good 45-minute workout. I became too hungry to polish off another 15-minutes, so I went home and ate a bagel with spicy-flavored tuna fish, a tiny bit of mayo, and celery. I was told to eat protein after a workout, remember. So I try to do just that.

I think I will incorporate free weights into my routine once a week for the time being. I'm still a little intimidated by them...and by the brawny men and women who use them regularly. But they were a nice challenge, something to keep me from being bored. And when working out regularly, that's very important!