1. Elliptical Trainers Do Your Body Good
Elliptical trainers give treadmills and stationary bikes a run for their money. Not only is there very little learning curve to these machines, but they also offer a low-impact, full body workout. Elliptical machines work your quads and glutes as you lean back into your heels, and really work your calves if you decide you want to workout on your toes. As you move the handles for your upper body workout, your core stabilizes and strengthens. There are many adjustments that you can make to an elliptical trainer to customize your workout to suit your needs.
2. Tighten Up for a Tough Cardio Workout
You might see people at the gym on the elliptical machine, moving gracefully and seemingly effortlessly while they read a magazine and wonder where the workout is. Push yourself hard during your workout on the elliptical while maintaining proper form to understand the phenomenon. Place your weight back onto your heels to avoid overworking your calves. Keep your stomach pulled in tight toward your spine to protect your lower back. Find something out in front of you to focus on, rather than looking down at your feet. Maintain a neutral spine.
3. Back and Forth
Most elliptical trainers have the option to move your feet in both forward and reverse motions. This option helps you switch up and challenge your current workout. It's a good idea to change the direction you're moving from time to time to avoid repetitive motion injuries and to shock your muscles into a new routine. You can go in reverse through your entire workout, or during intervals throughout the workout. When you switch up your workout, you burn more calories overall.
4. Upper Body Extras
Use your arms. The handles on your elliptical machine are there for a reason other than to give you something to hang onto. They help build strength and endurance for your upper body. When you're at a higher tension, you use the strength in your arms combined with the strength in your legs for a total body workout. Grip the handlebars at about your chest level, or wherever it feels comfortable. Keep your shoulders relaxed to let your arms get the workout.
5. Make Things Tougher
Elliptical machines offer you the option to change the resistance of the pedals. This makes it possible for you to increase the intensity of your workout, as you get stronger. You can also use the adjustable resistance to do interval training on the elliptical. When you use a higher tension, push yourself to maintain a steady pace for the best possible workout. Warm up and cool down at a lower resistance.
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