When choosing a piece of equipment to work out on in the gym, one of the most common machines available is the elliptical trainer. Elliptical trainers have gained in popularity due to their ease in use and their low-impact cardiovascular and strength training workout. When approaching an elliptical trainer for the first time it's important to keep in mind certain tips for using the trainer correctly.
Step 1
Meet with your doctor to ensure you are healthy enough to use the elliptical trainer safely. Although elliptical trainers are lower impact than many other pieces of exercise equipment, they can still be dangerous for those whose have heart problems or other health issues that may be affected by moderate to intense exercise.
Step 2
Experiment with the different buttons on the elliptical such as those that adjust resistance levels, incline or calorie and mile tracking. Do this before you start working out so that you don't need to stop mid-exercise to figure out the control panel.
Step 3
Step on to the elliptical trainer using one foot at a time. Maintain your balance on the elliptical to get an overall feel of the machine before starting to move your feet.
Step 4
Check your posture to help prevent injury or stress to your body while using the elliptical. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends keeping your shoulders back, your head up and looking forward, and that you not lean forward on the equipment.
Step 5
Distribute your weight evenly between the two pedals and grab the two side arm poles with a relaxed grip. Shift your right foot forward then your left foot slowly to allow yourself to get used to the movement of the elliptical. Increase your speed as you become used to the way the equipment works.
Step 6
Increase the resistance and incline to increase the intensity of the workout once you have mastered the standard motion of the equipment.
Tips and Warnings
- For more of a core workout, remove your hands from the elliptical bars and use your core to keep your balance on the machine.
- If you feel any pain or dizziness, stop using the equipment immediately to prevent injury.
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