Cardio-Free

I've read a book that claims that people of the older persuasion should not do aerobics anymore. Instead we should do more weight training with little to no cardio...sounds cracked to me.

Any thoughts?

Mon. Feb 25, 12:00am

Yeah - return the book and get your money back!

That advice makes sense only if the book is for older folks struggling with osteoporosis / brittle bones.

Monday, February 25, 2008, 1:23 AM

Actually, there was something in a magazine that I read - Woman's Day, I think - that said cardio should be reduced as you get older
e.g. those in their 20's should do 20% weight training & 80% cardio
in their 30's should do 30% weight training & 70% cardio
and so on.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008, 3:34 PM

You can get a pretty good cardio workout with resistance training, too...

I'm in my 30's and do probably 75% resistance and 25% cardio and I'm in the best shape I've been. That said, I ain't running any races any time soon - I'd have to train for that and do more cardio, but as far as weight loss and staying trim - the minimal cardio works for me. I can see how it would be good as we get older - it would help us maintain muscle and bone health.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008, 4:35 PM

I would also suggest you look at risk factors. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis you may want to focus more on weight training. If you have risk factors for heart disease, maybe cardio should be hit harder.

Having said that, I have also heard that you decrease cardio as you get older. I am 50 and spend 30 minutes doing cardio for every hour of mixed Pilates and weight training. I also hike the hills near my home with the dogs most days. Both cardio and weight training. Anyone who has ever walked a big Labrador knows what I mean:)

Tuesday, February 26, 2008, 9:25 PM

If you're worried about overdoing cardio, why not do isometric-based exercises like yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi? These are gentle on the body and yet combine strength training, cardio and flexibility.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008, 11:19 AM

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