For someone new to exercise what works best for a home workout?

Go for a walk. You don’t have to jog. It’s really less boring than a treadmill and it gets you out in the fresh air. Take your little one with you. All you need are some comfy shoes. I know one member here who joined a walking group. That would give you some company while you walk too. There’s an app called Meet-Up and there are groups in Australia too. See if there’s something local you can join. For now, put your shoes on and go for a walk.

I like going for a walk, but if you have a non-portable child, maybe that’s not an option. The indoor equipment I’ve used & liked is a Nordic Track (non-motorized ski machine) and music.

The thing is is that I don’t really like walking or jogging for that matter, not for no other reason than exercise ;)
So if I have a machine for exercise and it’s in my own home I’m more likely to use it, plus you need to have that heart pumping hard for 20 minutes to really encourage a cardiovascular work out and that won’t happen if I walk with a 5-year-old, she’s so slow i’m practically dragging her all the time!

Is it better to have an exercycle or a treadmill? What one would be best for the heart?! x

Which will you use? Look on ebay at how many exercise bikes are up for sale. I have both a treadmill and a recumbent bike. I use both.

I used to walk my son to school and put an aerobic video on when I got home. Even if you’re not walking fast, walking to school and back is a great way to get some exercise AND to spend time with your daughter. Walk slower on the way there, and fast on the way back.

The first question should be if there are any exercises you can’t do. For example, if you have problems with your knees, you might want to avoid high impact exercises. Problems with shoulders, avoid things like push-ups. If there are issues, talk to your doctor to get some ideas. If all is good, starting easy with something that gets the heart pumping more than chatting on Fluther should be your first goal. Use your 5 year old to your advantage. Take her to a park and do some hiking. If your daughter is too slow, try bicycles. But honestly, it is the motion, not the speed, that you need. Another idea: Get a light dance routine and do that with her. That will give you quality time with her, she gets used to the idea of exercising, and you will start on your path to getting into shape.

If you don’t want to go outdoors there is a series called the 7 minute workout. Many versions of it are on youtube.
You can watch – and do -that.

I have an elliptical machine which is easier on the knees.

If you can plan walks with some neighbors it can be more fun than just doing something on your own.

I like a treadmill at home, but some people prefer the elliptical machine or a stationary bike. That’s just personal preference.

What I much prefer is a class, but that doesn’t answer your question. A zumba or other dance class, water aerobics, etc.

I encourage you to count your cholesterol intake if the exercise doesn’t help, and cut back on how much cholesterol you eat and see if that helps. If the exercise works then great. Exercise helps with many many things, including it should help your anxiety.

When treadmills act like clothes lines You most treadmills end up as non-treadmills. Don’t spend a lot of money thinking that will make exercise.

@Tropical_Willie I agree with that. My first wife had to have a treadmill. I can honestly say I got a lot of exercise with that…moving it from one room where it wasn’t being used to another where it wouldn’t be used and finally lifting it into the truck and tossing it out at the dump.

I agree with @LuckyGuy. Evidence suggests that high-intensity interval training provides many of the fitness benefits of prolonged endurance training.

If you get bored easily, I recommend an app called Carrot which keeps it fresh by insulting you ruthlessly.

Here is a preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9-oKMUWzb4

I will look at carrot! Sounds fantastic. I think I might go for the bike – stationary and then walk where I can. It’s really about starting somewhere! Thanks guys – ultimately id like a treadmill but at $1000 here in NZ and $200 for a bike – I think a bike is a good option! Yes to kicking anxiety in the god damn butt and lowering my cholesterol at the same time! -‘she says eating bacon and eggs for breakfast.’ (!)

Discipline. Doing it every day whether you want to or not.

Carrot Fit looks great, I’m going to the fitness store today to see what they think, I imagine they will just sell me the most expensive machine ;)
Discipline yes – thank god for neuroplasticity…. the ever changing brain that can learn new things at 40!

@Tan253, check eBay and local online sale sites. Look in your local paper or see if there are any garage sales near you. People buy gym equipment and then don’t use it. You’re bound to be able to pick something up second hand.

Boxing is really good cardiovascular exercise. See if you can pick up a punching bag and buy some gloves. There will be YouTube videos you can follow too.

There are buy / sell / trade pages on Facebook in your area, I’m sure. You might even get something for free.

Watch your diet and walk briskly, regularly. Best (and easiest) way I ever lost weight and lowered my blood pressure and cholesterol.

Do you enjoy cycling or other activities? IMO machines are destined to become dust collectors. Get a physical hobby.
Aside from working in the yard mine is mountain biking. You want exercise to be fun.

I think she mentioned she had kids. I walked a lot with my kids. One in a back pack thing, one in a stroller, the oldest walking.

I got a treadmill! :)
I do walk with my daughter but it’s definitely a slow and non cardiovascular walk and that’s what I NEED!