Useful extras

December 18, 2008

Improve your elliptical

Submitted by SiteEditor Read more cardio, daily challenge, toning up, and workouts
Challenge Yourself for: 24 Hours

Elliptical machines are aerobic devices that allow you to get a great low-impact cardio workout without pounding your joints. Today, challenge yourself to schedule a day at the gym when you try out the elliptical machine. Here are a couple hints for maintaining optimal form:
• Grip support handles lightly, without leaning or hunching over.
• Drive with your heels, not the balls of your feet (this will help keep your weight centered).
• Keep your upper body still and upright.
Tip: if you find yourself losing proper form, you might be tired, so note your limits and resume only when you’re able to maintain proper form.

Always consult a physician before starting any exercise routine.

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Community Progress: 94% success

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79 participants 53 entries logged

14 comments Have something to add? Share it here.

  1. Mebw
    407native 3 months ago

    Thanks for the hint . . .
    Drive with your heels, not the balls of your feet (this will help keep your weight centered.

    I was wondering about that.

  2. User_48
    Marissypoo 7 months ago

    Im a runner and when I fell and hurt my knee the eliptical helped me out by getting me back into the running. It was good when I couldnt run and pound on my knees. It gave me a good workout without the intense pains.

  3. User_48
    randy61 9 months ago

    Always used the treadmill. Time to try something different along w/strength training.

  4. User_48
    sgibson19 10 months ago

    I have increased using my elliptical but I will continue until I work up to 5 times a week.

  5. User_48
    Lainie1950 10 months ago

    I joined a new gym because of all its great elliptical and strengthening equipment … these go easy on the old beat-up body. I am scheduled to start with a personal trainer (one or two sessions) within the week.

  6. 019
    Michael1 10 months ago

    Using the ellipitcal whether at the gym or at home has so many important benefits.

  7. User_48
    sgibson19 10 months ago

    I have an elliptical that I have not used since September. I am going to use it at least three ties a week.

  8. User_48
    phalter 10 months ago

    I have an elliptical that’s been sitting still way too long…I have to make it move at least 3 x week for the next 2 weeks and then 5 x week after that.

  9. User_48
    Carimel 10 months ago

    I love using the elliptical. I get addicted to it. I probably should pay more attention to my form though.

  10. Me080408
    proudgg221 10 months ago

    My husband had to take the vehicle and go to Austin, so I did not get to go to the gym on Tuesday. I have made plans to go this Tuesday am.

  11. User_48
    Salliem 11 months ago

    I use a treadmill instead of the eliptical..doing high intensity training..I have lost 5 pounds in 2 weeks doing that and weight training.

  12. My_pics_school_and_home_048
    BamaKashiFan 11 months ago

    I have an elliptical machine as well…Lately, I haven’t made time to use it. But now I am motivated again and will commit to 30 minutes 3 times a week for the first 2 weeks. Then I plan on increasing to 45 minutes 4 times a week. We’ll see how it goes. Will update in a couple of weeks.

  13. Connie-and-khepre
    bastet10 11 months ago

    I already have an elliptical trainer in my home. but haven’t been using it as much as I used to. I am going to challenge myself to bump up my usage from 2 nights a week to 3 or more.

  14. Me080408
    proudgg221 11 months ago

    When I return from Christmas at my daughters, then I will go to the Senior center to get tested on the elliptical to see if I can do it. Then go to the center 3 times a week to get my body into shape again.