Elliptical Trainer Workout Benefits And How They Work
Walk in any gym and you are bound to see a few elliptical trainers in the cardio section. This is because they are easy to use and provide you with a great workout. Work out on one for just an hour and you can burn upwards of 800 calories. How’s that for a workout?
Benefits Of Elliptical Trainer Workouts
One of the things I really like about the elliptical trainer is it is very easy to use. Just hop on and start your workout. You will need to key in some information such as the type of workout you want to do but other than that it’s super simple. Elliptical trainers are also low impact. This makes them great for senior citizens or anyone who has joint problems. Unlike running there is no pounding of your joints when you use the elliptical machine. Your feet will never leave the pedals.
You will improve your cardiovascular health as well as tone up your hips and legs when you do this type of workout. The average elliptical machine will also have handlebars. The handlebars are designed to move back and forth as you pedal. If you want to get a full body workout consider using the handlebars as you workout. Instead of working just your lower body this will allow you to work your upper body as well. When moving the handlebars you will be working your chest, shoulders, back and arms. You will be hitting every major muscle group which equates to a great fat burning workout.
You know I can’t leave off weight loss as a benefit to using the elliptical machine. As stated before, you can burn 800 calories or more for every hour you workout on the elliptical machine. Want to burn even more? Consider doing intervals or upping the level of resistance.
How To Use An Elliptical Machine
To use an elliptical machine just jump on and start pedaling. It takes a little leg strength to get the machine moving. Once it’s moving the screen will light up and ask you what type of workout you want to do. Each elliptical is different and will offer a variety of different options. However, most all elliptical machines come with intervals, manual and a fit test. For a more intense workout choose interval training. Once you have chosen the type of workout you want to do you will need to adjust the intensity. The intensity is determined by the amount of resistance you use during your workout.
The higher the resistance the more intense the workout will be. You can adjust the resistance at any time during your workout. The idea is to find the intensity level that’s just right for you. Start off slow and adjust as you get stronger. Try to use the machine for at least 30 minutes. To avoid boredom select different types of workouts. Each workout will work different parts of your legs and arms. You can also adjust the time so your workout fits into your schedule.