Tired of the treadmill? Just getting started on a workout routine? Now’s the perfect time to try the elliptical.
The elliptical is a fitness machine, and is a great alternative to other cardio machines (like treadmills) for people with joint pain or injuries.
My Fitness Pal recently shared some tips to get the most out of your elliptical workout:
1. Work all your muscles: You may think cardio is all about the legs. Not true. Most gyms have ellipticals that include arm and leg work, which will improve circulation. That also means more muscles employed and more calories burned.
2. Intervals are your friend: Intervals can mean alternating speeds, alternating resistance, or a combination of the two for a certain amount of time. Increasing and decreasing difficulty means you don’t need to spend as much time on the machine.
3. Don’t be afraid to increase the incline: Not into sprints? That’s okay. Increase resistance/incline for a workout that burns calories and helps you strengthen your muscles.
4. Remember that stepping out of your comfort zone is key: Doing the same routine every time you hit the gym will bore you, and keep you from getting the best workout possible. Mix it up by picking up speed, or increasing resistance to push yourself.
See you at the gym!
