However, if you are a beginner, you will need some guidance with its many arms and legs. To get the most results, you need to understand an elliptical machine, how it works, and what it is best used for. Let's start by explaining what an elliptical machine is.
What is an Elliptical Machine?
An elliptical machine is a popular piece of cardio equipment that simulates a mix of different cardiovascular exercises like walking, running, and stair climbing. It has two-foot pedals and two upright handles, allowing for a full-body workout that engages both the upper and lower body.The Main advantage of the elliptical or cardio machine is that it offers a low-impact workout that's easier on the joints than some other machines like treadmills.
Benefits of Using An Elliptical Machine
- Heart Health: It strengthens the heart, improving overall cardiovascular fitness.
- Calorie Burn: A cardio machine is very efficient at burning calories, meaning it can also aid in weight management.
- It is perfect for low-impact exercises.: It is easy on the joints
- Convenient and Adjustable: Allows for easy intensity adjustments to suit any fitness level.
What Type Should You Use?
There are many types of elliptical machines, and you can easily spot the differences by looking at where the flywheel or drive system is located. If it is at the front, then you are looking at a front-drive elliptical machine, if it is at the back, then a rear-drive elliptical, and so on.
Those are not the only two. There are many other types with different features that may be of interest to you, and most of them are quite good. However, no matter which version you go for, ensure it has some specific must-have features and components to give you a full workout.
How to Choose the Right Elliptical Machine.
Whatever elliptical machine you choose, make sure it has the following components and parts:
i. Foot Pedals.
First, you need somewhere to put your feet. Also, the pedals are a major component of the machine. The whole reason it is called an “elliptical” machine is because the pedals move in a circular, elliptical motion, determining the way you work out.
ii. Handles
Make sure it has both stationary handles and moving handles. The stationary handles are important for body balance, while the moving handles will help you work your upper body muscles.
iii. A Display Console
You need a screen to set your workout preferences. You should be able to track your time, distance, calories burnt, and even your heart rate on the display.
iv. Resistance and Incline
Adjusting resistance helps you control how difficult it is to pedal. Higher resistance will help you build strength, while lower resistance is more cardio-focused.
You should be able to adjust inclines to target different muscle groups, such as your glutes, hamstrings, and calves.
How to Use an Elliptical Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using an elliptical machine is not like using any other equipment you’d find at the gym. It has many components, so it is advised that you take time to learn how to use it correctly. Even getting on the machine requires care and attention, especially if it is your first time.
Getting On and Starting
You get on an elliptical machine the same way you get on a bicycle. Place one foot on each pedal, and hold onto the stationary handles as you get balanced.Now, stand up straight with your feet about hip-width apart on the pedals. That way, your body weight is distributed evenly on both sides.
Set Your Workout
If you’re new to an elliptical machine, the best way to get started is to launch the “Quick Start” button. This button allows you to control resistance as you go.
Also, make use of preset programs.
Most elliptical machines offer programs like “Hill Climb,” “Interval Training,” and “Endurance.” They allow the machine to vary the level of resistance and incline automatically, so you don’t have to think too much.
You can use the custom settings if you are more familiar with elliptical machines. These allow you to set your desired duration, resistance level, and incline manually. Custom settings can be very helpful, especially if you have some desired goals to achieve.
Warm-Up
A warm-up prepares your muscles and prevents injuries. Warming up will also get you used to the elliptical motion of the machine. Here’s how to warm up on your elliptical machine.
Begin pedaling at a moderate pace with low resistance. Do so for about 3-5 minutes.
Use this time to get used to the elliptical motion, especially if it’s your first time.
Main Workout
When you work out on an elliptical machine, your objective should be to use all features to engage both your lower and upper body. To do that, you have to know how to use the handles and the pedals and when to adjust the incline. Here are some guidelines.
- Using the Handles: Hold onto the moving handles, and you pedal, pushing and pulling them to engage your upper body as you pedal.
- Adjusting Resistance and Incline: Increase resistance gradually and steadily (e.g., 4-8 on a scale of 1-20). As you go, increase resistance to target the quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
- Using the Incline: For a more intense lower-body workout, set a higher incline to target the glutes and hamstrings.
- Posture: Keep your back straight, core tight, and shoulders relaxed. Avoid leaning forward or slouching, which can reduce effectiveness and strain your back.
- Cool-Down (3-5 minutes): Gradually reduce resistance to a low level and slow down your pedaling speed.
- Finish by standing still on the pedals for a moment to stabilize yourself, then carefully step off the machine.
Recommended Elliptical Machine: The Adjustable Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer From ZelusFitness.
This joint-friendly elliptical machine provides effective, low-impact exercise comparable to stair climbing, cross-country skiing, and running. It is perfect for routines that burn calories more efficiently and strengthen the whole body.The control panel has an LCD display that lets you track your heart rate so you stay right in your optimal zone for cardio improvement.
Live data such as speed, distance, time, and estimated calories burned are also shown as you go, and the media device holder adds a level of entertainment to spur you on.
More Features
Here are some special features of this cross trainer.
- It is durable. The body of this machine is crafted from heavy-gauge steel and powder-coated for superior sturdiness, durability, and corrosion resistance;
- It is well-designed: The super steady H-shaped base keeps your machine securely anchored even during intense sessions with users up to 18 stone 13 pounds (120 kg)
- Nine electromagnets positioned near the heavy-duty flywheel offer smooth elliptical motions of 8 variable intensities, covering everything from casual walking to hardcore HIIT.
- At the turn of the knob, you can challenge yourself with greater magnetic resistance while enjoying low-impact, frictionless strides thanks to the quality flywheel.
Interested in this Awesome Machine?
Head over to ZelusFitness to grab this special equipment while it is on sale this end of year. You can also check out other fantastic workout equipment, from weighted vests to balance balls and ab machines. ZelusFitness offers all of these at an amazing price to encourage you to get started, get fitter, healthier, and better overall.