Can I Lose Weight Using an Elliptical?

Can I Lose Weight Using an Elliptical?
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Weight loss is a combination of math and will power. You need to figure out how many calories you're currently eating and then cut that number or get more aerobic exercise to burn more calories. Most people choose a combination of choices to lose weight. Aerobic exercise on an elliptical trainer can not only help you burn calories, it also gives a full body workout that can be used to build strength in the arms and legs.

Requirements

Aerobic exercise is important to any healthy lifestyle plan and essential for weight loss. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise five times per week for people to maintain weight and health. Weight loss may require additional exercise per day. To lose one pound you need to burn 3,500 calories. Cutting 500 calories a day from your diet and burning 500 calories per day in exercise means you'll lose about two pounds per week. An elliptical trainer machine can help you to meet these goals.

Specifics

You can control the intensity of your workout on an elliptical trainer by setting the program's difficulty. A very low-intensity workout will burn about 130 calories in 30 minutes for a 180 lb. person. A moderate intensity workout would burn about 220 calories in a 30-minute workout. Some elliptical trainers also give the opportunity to work your arm muscles giving an extra punch to your workout.

Additional Benefits

Elliptical trainers are easier on the joints and lower back than treadmills or walking or running outdoors, yet offer the same weight-bearing benefit in your exercise routine. They can be used indoors when its cold or raining outside and are quiet enough to watch television or read during a workout. Additionally, since elliptical trainers exercise both lower and upper body simultaneously, your workout can be shorter for a higher calorie burn.

Warnings

Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
If you feel any pain during exercise on the elliptical exercise machine, stop immediately to assess the pain. Although an elliptical machine is lauded for its minimal impact it is possible to injure joints while using.

References

Article reviewed by Melanie Zoltan Last updated on: Feb 20, 2011

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