Shellee's Journal, 05 Mar 08

start with 20-30 mins. of cardio (elliptical, treadmill etc.), each session and end with a 5-10 mins of free weights to tone it off. Working on muscles will continue to burn those calories that you started burning with your cardio routine. With weights, lift the most weight you can for 12 reps., and do at least 2 or 3 sets of 12 each.  

Thanks for the tip !!! :) 

CONGRATULATIONS! I echo the advice above. As a new gym member you may be eligible for a free training session or at least some input from a trainer. If there are areas you'd like to tone-for me it's my arms and abs, a trainer can show you specific exercises and the form needed to do them effectively. One thing about weight-you will find that the more reps you do, the harder it gets as the muscle tires. It's okay to lessen the load on the second or third set, in fact, I think it is prudent to avoid muscle strain that will keep you out of the gym. Maintaining proper form takes priority over amount of weight. You will find that you will begin to increase the amount of weight as your muscles strengthen. If you cannot stay on one machine for 20-30 mins, break it up until you build your stamina and focus. I started by doing ten minutes on 3 different machines. It helped break up the boredom. Now I can get in the zone and do 40 mins on a single machine (except the stairmaster-MONSTER machine!). Not sure if this is true but my trainer swears that a morning workout is more effective for weight loss as it gives a jolt to your metabolism that carries on through the day and helps maximize the calorie burning effects of daily activities. That's it! I know you will great! D