This is my 1st post here. My boyfriend just got me an elliptical which I'm happy to say I started today.. 10mins and I was done.. I know I have to start slow but my question is,,,, what is a good time limit to be on it? How many days a week to start? I'm losing slow, which I'm ok with.. but would like to see faster results..

I'm no expert but I started out doing 30 minutes 3 days a week. I used a treadmill and walked slow.

I then started increasing my pace each time but still only 30 minutes.

As I lost weight and became more fit I began strength training 3 days and cardio 5 days. I always increase the difficulty. I am a runner so I vary my workout by having long slow run days (an hour) and sprint interval days (to increase my pace) and fun run days. I always do a minimum of 30 minutes 5 days per week.

You have to continually increase intensity but you do not want to jump out the gate going too hard. Take it slow and go at your own pace.

You need to be listening to your body to help you identify how much exercise is safe for you to engage in. My surgeon recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of cardio/weights daily for as many days of the week that you can do.

That's fine for people who are fit, but starting out to become more fit and active, that schedule is not necessarily realistic. If you feel pain, EVER, you need to stop immediately your exercise. This is about increasing level of fitness, not about injuring yourself.

Over time, you will no doubt be able to increase your time and level of difficulty for exercise...but begin with realistic goals.

Thank you for both of your inputs.. I am way out of shape.. exercise was never there besides running after the kids.. :-). I know in my heart I can do this,, I just need my mind and body to catch up.. also support is important.. I now have that home...