Your Thoughts.......

[Stacy]

Hi I was wondering if the educated crowd could share any thoughts, opinions, experiences you've had with the following....

I'm 5'1", pear-shaped, and have thighs that tend to bulk-up (ie. I dont have the genes of a super model) and I know from reading the posts that running is an excellent way to trim down the thighs. However an old knee injury prevents me from running. I do have a recumbent bike though. I've also read that certain exercises are better for different body shapes, and based on what I've read about that the "experts" say that my recumbent bike routine should be a longer low-moderate endurance ride staying at the same level the entire time. On other posts I've read here, including some of Cathe's, it was mentioned that the way to go was doing intervals on the bike (similar to her treadmill workout). Do you think being pear-shaped and with thighs that tend to bulk an interval workout would be what I'm looking for, or the other type of recumbent routine??? I know I'll probably have to try both out to see what works best for me, but I'd be interested in hearing your experiences or thoughts.

Thanks!

Stacy

 

[Joanna]

Hi Stacy

My legs tend to bulk too so I have found doing any cardio routine helps. When I do Cathe's step tapes I use a 6" step and I tend to go low on weights for leg routines. My feeling is that a strong overall cardio program and 'clean' eating should help you. I have also decided to be satisfied with my not-so-thin-always-a-little-flabby legs!

Joanna

 

[wendyloo]

Hi Stacy,

"They" do say that long and moderate is a better fat burner. But any cardio is going to burn calories. An interval workout will do a lot more for your cardiovascular endurance.
(I am pear shaped, too, and I don't bulk up from doing step, and even if I do, "If your going to have a big butt, have a GREAT big butt." (Gin Miller) )
Anyway, you're right, you'll have to see what works best for you. My suggestion is to do both, because both types of workouts have their benefits. Also, it's important to do a combination of intense, moderate, and easy workouts, so doing both is a good idea anyway.
Wendy

 

[KatieDid]

Hi Stacy: Here are just a few thoughts from my brief experience as a FORMER USCF racer... Cycling can be a great way to shape seriously chisled thighs. Alot depends on your genetics and how you use your tools. Just like working with weights, you can get a good cardio, high intensity workout that builds muscle endurance and tone by using high reps with lighter resistance. Try pushing through your heels at 90 to 110 rpms. If you also monitor heart rate you can also make sure you are training your heart well too. If you want to build muscle strength for this activity, increase resistance and lower the rpms to 70-80, be careful going to lower rpms if you have knee problems.

The way I understand intervals is that they are a great way to increase your training range...but whether you bulk up or not will depend on your genetics and whether you are "pushing" through heavier resistance or "spinning" through higher heart rates and intensity.

I hope that helps some. Katie