Hello Lea,

I am writing to ask about how much cardio is needed to support the iron barre regimen. I will soon be turning 43. I have recently noticed that cardio sessions (no matter how brief or low intensity) are impeding my weight loss, unlike in my younger years. I am hoping two hatha yoga sessions a week and 20 minutes a day walking would be enough. I'd appreciate your thoughts on the matter. Thanks. Fatima

Cardio isn't necessary to support the Iron Barre regimen. Cardio isn't really necessary for weight loss as caloric deficit and resistance training are key for actual weight loss. I encourage doing cardio for stress management, pursuing endurance training goals, or for cardiovascular benefits ( resistance training with little to no rest is a great way to achieve cardiovascular benefits). I HIGHLY recommend yoga, so that is wonderful you are including that in your training regimen. Resistance training or any type of exercise program should be balanced with yoga. If you enjoy the 20 minutes of steady state walking every day for achieving mental stress release or personal enjoyment, just stick with doing this. However, you will get more out of those 20 minutes if trying to lose weight by performing non-stop resistance training (or 30 seconds or less of rest between sets) to get cardiovascular benefits + improve lean muscle/metabolism.