Okay, I've been lurking around the exercise forum for awhile now and thought I'd ask my questions.

I just began (about a week ago) a new exercise program. I joined a gym and have been three times already. So far I have done:

Thursday-
Elliptical trainer, light walking, variety of weights

Monday-
Same as above

Wednesday-
One hour light Yoga class, light walking (legs are hurting) and weights focusing on upper body

I take Atkins multivitamins, essential oils, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and chromium. I just added L-glutamine for after workout.

Here are my questions: My goal is for lean body, fat loss, not muscle building in terms of strenght or bulk.

I don't have the time or energy to get to the gym more to spread out my workouts (only cardio one day, only weights the next) so I plan to do them both on the same days. I believe Dan said in a thread that weight training should be done first so the majority of energy is focused towards that, then 20-30 minutes of cardio. Is this correct? I have been doing cardio first because I thought that was what I was supposed to do so I wasn't tired out by muscle fatigue. But I can see how it would work the other way too.

My next question is: what is an appropriate Atkins-friendly after workout replenishment snack? I know to aim for a combo of carbs and protein within 45 minutes, but don't know how to work that since I live about 45 minutes away making fresh type foods pretty impossible. I was thinking a fat free protein drink and an apple. Does that sound good?

Thanks for any input!

Why not build muscle? It will increase your metabolism, burn more fat and make you feel really powerful



Yes



Yes it does, but you will probably only need 1/2 apple.

Akiwican

Thanks for your reply. Seems like I was pretty much on track!

I DO want to build muscle, I didn't phrase that quite right. I'm just not serious about having a musculature... more like nice lean arms and thighs.

Thanks again for answering!


Angela