Magnum:
I now feel like a slug and am about to start some strength training (weights, dips, etc.), but I also want and need to do some cardio/aerobic exercise. I don't really want to run, and I remember reading some negative stuff (I think from you) about it on the other thread.
I'm not fanatically opposed to running. For example a few sets of shuttle sprints (set up two points 25yds apart, sprint to and around one point and back to the start, rest until your heart rate drops back into its fat burning zone then repeat) for four to six sets is an excellent way to turbo burn calories in a short amount of time, stimulate fast twitch fibers and recruit every muscle on your body while subjecting your joints to a limited amount of impact in a short time. Extended periods of running on the other hand subjects joints and connective tissues to long periods of stress and strain. Endurance racing like marathons causes rhabdomyolysis (the severe destruction of muscle tissue) and there are additional issues like increasing ketones and myoglobin which damages kidneys and can cause renal failure. Large boned people (endomorphs) in particular should stay away from running - every time I see large people running marathons I can't help but grimace.
My wife and I have been strongly considering buying either a treadmill or an elliptical trainer. Do you recommend one over the other? Or do you recommend getting both? Or do you recommend something entirely different for cardio?
I would recommend an elliptical trainer simply for the minimal impact it has on joints and connective tissues. But it is not necessary to have either for cardio/aerobic goals. Resistance training alone can be used for this purpose by simply increasing intensity and keeping the intensity where your heart rate remains within the cardio target zone (roughly 70-75% of your maximum heart rate).
Hope this helps. Just ask if you need anymore help.
Cofty:
Thank you. That's how I feel about your evolution threads.