You know how workout machines at the gym are timed for you?

[Anonymous]

Ok I'm not sure if it's called "machines" but that's what I label them as - AMT, elliptical, and whatever else is timed, do you actually workout for the whole time, let's say it's programmed for 55 minutes, do you stay and do your thing for 55 minutes, or do you do 30 or whatever time you feel like doing? I'm asking because I just go all the way with the time, and I've noticed some people stop after a while, and now I'm starting to wonder if I'm a weird one xD

[NotJustAnotherGuy]

Most people don't know how to use the machines other than to go up and down in speed(treadmills)/resistance(cycles).. so they just click random buttons until one of the programs start and modify the speed or resistance from there. So that's why they aren't going the allotted time-- because they decided to make it more intense and go a shorter distance, but maybe faster. Running 55 minutes is fine. Long distance runners are sexy. ;) Don't let people tell you otherwise. I don't know your fitness goals and nor does anyone else reading just this question.. so whether or not you're doing the right workout for your goals, I'm not sure. But 55 minutes of running is definitely a healthy thing regardless of any goals. And you're not weird. I usually set the time I want to be on for and follow it, but sometimes I just mash buttons and go for however long I feel like.

[Anonymous]

The time is only relevent if you plan to sustain that intensity throughtout the workout. 10-15 minutes of sprinting/running is more efficient than 55 minutes of coasting just so you can finish it. Get your cardio in quickly and efficiently and use that time on other exercises.

[rachiee]

Well if you are using those machines for your main source of cardio/intense workout then you're suppose to go the whole time if its a workout that you've selected. Are you choosing the workout (Ie fat burning, cross country, whatever else they have)? Then this is fine and you should go the amount of time. Just make sure that you switch it up. Increase the resistance, you don't want to go 55 minutes of doing the same exact thing.

Some people stop because they do something else (like running or other exercises). Other people stop because they just don't have the patience/endurance to stay on a machine for close to an hour lol. I've noticed a lot of people have trouble with machines and get off and they don't even raise the resistance up. If you don't push yourself then you aren't going to get the results you want.

[martyfellow]

I do whatever feel comfortable. 55 minut4s is too boring and I don't think moving in a totally unfiorm and unvarying way like that is a good idea. You can easily oversue certain muscles, while not working other muscles at all. Such imbalances can lead to injuries.

[WeaponZero]

typically I only go for 20-30 minutes because the only time I use those machines is following a workout with heavy weights. otherwise I prefer doing forms of cardio that I can do at home with a medicine ball or a jump rope.