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Do You Exercise Backwards?

Categories: Your Turn, Fitness

Walk in to nearly any gym and you'll probably see someone going in reverse on an elliptical trainer. Why not? It goes in two directions. However, diet and fitness expert Liz Neporent found that exercising backwards isn't giving your glutes a better workout, and there's really no reason for it.

Some folks just like the change of pace, and going backwards definitely mixes things up. But the risks on machines outweigh the benefits, according to Liz. Spinning bike manufacturers tell trainers not to include any retro-cycling in classes because of the chance for injury, and even elliptical makers say the reverse motion wasn't intended for workouts. As for calorie burn, there is some evidence there is a higher calorie burn in walking backwards, but the evidence is minimal. Despite the lack of evidence, are you still moving in reverse?

Last week we asked people how high-tech their workouts were, and the responses were mixed.

  • 35 percent said all you need are a decent pair of sneakers and some basic athletic equipment. Summer is the perfect excuse to unplug. Try tennis, basketball, Frisbee, beach paddleball or even bocce to get moving while having fun.
  • 33 percent said you're using the machines at the gym, but that's about it. You're not super high-tech, but your fitness routine definitely involves a power outlet.
  • 31 percent said you're completely plugged in. Not only are you uploading your playlist on your iPod, you've got a heart rate monitor strapped on, and when you get back home you're logging your trek online.

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