It is no secret that elliptical exercise equipment provides an effective full body workout. If your weight management plan requires quick weight loss, an elliptical exercise machine may be just what you need. When selecting an elliptical exercise machine, be sure to select a model that features the cross training handlebars to work your upper body also. With the right elliptical exercise equipment, you can achieve an effective cardio workout, a lean, toned frame and of course weight loss. There are six tips to consider when using an elliptical exercise machine to achieve the best results.
1. Select an elliptical trainer with several levels of incline.
Elliptical trainers that offer a variety of levels of incline usually provide a variety of levels of resistance. Increased resistance and increasing your incline will keep you from reaching a stand still in your weight loss plans. When you allow your workout to become repetitive your muscles are not stretched and forced to work harder. When you work your muscles harder, you build resistance over time.
2. Search for a smooth ride.
Elliptical exercise machines are designed to create a smooth and low impact workout. Any elliptical trainer that does not have a smooth flow is most likely not a quality model. When shopping for an elliptical exercise machine, make sure you shop for well known manufactures such as Precor, Merit and NordicTrack. Another indication of the quality of the elliptical trainer is the type of warranty attached. Pay attention to the small print when selecting an elliptical trainer.
3. Monitor Your Heart Rate
Typically, elliptical exercise machines include a sensor for your heart rate. Any time you are working out, it is important to monitor your heart rate. You're heart rate pretty much is an indication of how hard your body is working. Usually the sensors for the heart rate are located in a convenient location like the handlebars. Monitoring your heart rate will keep you informed as to how hard you are working and if you need to give more or less.
4. Entertaining Gadgets
As technology improves, it would not be shocking to find media outlets built into the elliptical trainer console. An elliptical workout is a very demanding workout. It is much easier to complete your workout if you have some sort of distraction to keep your mind occupied. Perhaps you use an ipod with a play list of upbeat songs to help keep your pace. Whether it is television, audio books or music, a distracting your mind is important in accomplishing your workout goals.
5. Just for KNEES!
A very well known advantage of an elliptical workout is the decreased chance of injury. An elliptical trainer provides an effective, low impact workout that places little to no pressure on your knees. Many injuries that occur during workouts affect the knees. The design of the elliptical trainer does not require your foot to ever leave the pedal; as a result, your joints are safe. Although the design of the elliptical exercise equipment promotes a healthy workout, it is still very important to practice good form and posture.
6. Leg Extensions
Although the elliptical trainer does not require your foot to leave the pedal, the machine should encourage long strides. In order to experience an effective elliptical workout, you must use a machine that encourages long and fluid leg movements. This is especially important if you are a taller individual.
Exercise machines that provide a full body workout, or cross trainers, provide a very effective workout. However, it is still imperative to research your product before making a purchase. As you shop for your new elliptical trainer, keep the tips mentioned above in mind.