Q and A cardio

As I enter into the 5th week of my challenge, I am curious
about adding additional work outs. Do you ever add any additional cardio or strength training to your routine? I would be curious to know your thoughts.
Becky

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Well Becky...first I'd like to congratulate you on sticking with the program for five weeks. Can you hear me cheering you on all the way from Minnesota? You have already accomplished what millions of Americans can't or won't! You have made the commitment to transform your body, mind and spirit...and you are well on your way to honoring your self-promise. How wonderful is that?

Now on to your question. As a regular guest book reader and participant on the BFL tracker I can safely say it seems that just about everyone who works BFL asks about or tinkers with the idea of adding additional cardio and or strength training. Ultimately its up to you.

But here is my two cents worth. During my first challenge I did 20 minutes of cardio each day for six days a week. I had about 50 pounds to lose and I figured that the extra sessions would help melt the fat a bit sooner. I lost about 23 pounds. During my second 12 weeks I did the same thing and lost 13 pounds. Each subsequent challenge my weight loss slowed.

Today I do 3 to 4, 20 minute cardio sessions each week. Throughout all of my BFL efforts I have worked hard to hit my tens as outlined in the Body For Life Book by Bill Phillips.

Other BFL'ers have doubled up their cardio sessions. IE: two, 20 minute sessions a day, three to four days a week. While others stuck with three cardio days a week and then enjoyed other sports through out the week. Things like hockey, basketball, hiking, jogging.

As for the weight lifting and resistance training I have always followed that part of the program by the book. I think it is essential to give your muscles time to recuperate and repair. I also have used betagen on each of my cardio and resistance days.

What I hear from a lot of folks is that consistency is really key. Make sure you are following the program and you follow it day in and day out. A little extra cardio may get you to the finish line a little faster...but three 20 minute sessions a week as prescribed by Bill Phillips will also get you there.

Good luck and let me know how the rest of your challenge goes!