Happy Friday!
It’s a beautiful day here in NYC. It feels more like August then November!
What is with this weather!?? Whatever, I am definitely NOT complaining!
Getting Back in the Game
So, BF and I have made a joint decision that we are going to get up early together to go to the gym a couple mornings each week. With his work schedule an early morning workout is necessary, otherwise he won’t make it to the gym. He needs to get back on track too 
So today was Day 1. And it felt really good! I’ve never been a morning exerciser, so I’m looking forward to seeing how this works out (no pun intended) for me.
BF did some weight-lifting while I CLIMBED for 25 minutes on the stepmill and then did some push-ups and stretching.
I haven’t used that machine in a while and wow…my face was RED at the end. I had what the BF likes to call my “Tomato Face”, indicative of a great workout
In my opinion it is definitely the hardest machine at the gym. If you’re more of a light exerciser or don’t workout regularly, this machine may not be for you.
But if you are up for the challenge- what a great workout! I usually need to spend at least 45 minutes running or on the elliptical to feel the same kind of “burn”.
Why I love the Stepmill:
- It’s a cardio workout AND a lower body workout
- It’s VERY challenging – even going at a slower pace can lead to a sweaty, heart-pumping workout.
- Every time to you use it you can FEEL yourself getting stronger.
- Its benefits are applicable to real life – like walking up the stairs!
I know I always get out of breath when walking up flights of stairs. The stepmill is like walking up stairs…for 30 minutes. It can definitely help prepare you for things like stair walking, hiking, hill walking/running, and even mountain climbing! - It’s usually free to use at the gym – A lot of people are either intimidated by this machine, don’t know how to use it or simply haven’t considered it. So I find that there’s always one available to use when I go to the gym.
Don’t be the person who’s intimidated, if you feel like you’re up to it – why not give the stepmill a try!
*Remember to warm up beforehand, maybe with some light jogging and start slow!*
My plans today include – another bowl of creamy oat bran and, since it is so lovely out, a trip to central park! …and then maybe some shopping window shopping 
HAVE A GREAT FRIDAY!
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Have you ever tried the stepmill? What are your thoughts? If not, what is your favorite machine at the gym?
Janna
November 21st, 2009 at 11:06 am
The first time I did that machine I hated it, I found it so hard and felt like I was going to fall off! I tried it again over a year later and really liked it. Such a great workout. I haven’t done it lately b/c I quit my old gym and now my new gym has it but I want to wait until after my races for the season are over in case it bothers my knee.
[Reply]
November 24th, 2009 at 7:33 am
You inspired me! I did the stepmill yesterday for 30 minutes. OMG. I forgot what a workout it was. I was dripping! I usually run out of work across the street to the gym and only have a half hour to get a workout in, so this is perfect for the limited time. Although I’d rather be less sweaty to go back to work, it is worth it. And maybe I won’t have a hard time going up regular stairs anymore if I get used to this.
Although I couldn’t take a sip of my water because every time I moved my hand off the railing I felt like I was about to fall off!
Thanks for reminding me to use this machine!
[Reply]
Janna Reply:
November 24th, 2009 at 9:16 am
You’re welcome! It’s definitely my go-to workout when I’m short on time.
[Reply]
November 24th, 2009 at 11:07 am
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