A Question To All Of The Elliptical Lovers Out There?

Hello, I have a high high percentage of fat so I wanted to start eating and exercising healthier, but I have some questions. I want to use an elliptical I don't know which is a good kind. I also wanted to know what is your most successful interval? Thank you so much!!!

Replies

  • aleggett321
    aleggett321 Posts: 186 Member
    I recently bought a Sole E25 elliptical and really like it so far. I have a Sole treadmill that I've had for four years and had no problems with so I stuck with the brand.
  • w2bab
    w2bab Posts: 353 Member
    My husband and I have used our elliptical nearly every day for almost a year now. We added a stationary recumbent bike last summer, and those two machines are my husband's only workout. I add some weight training, and for the past week I've been doing the 30 Day Shred. We shopped around and bought a Schwinn because it didn't take up too much space and had good reviews. Both were $300, and both are rated for 300 lbs, since we were close to that when we started.

    I don't know what setting he uses, but I usually have it on the highest setting and keep moving fast enough to keep my heart rate between 135-160. We do 20 minutes on the elliptical and 20 minutes on the bike. (We obviously had a high fat percentage when we started too. The elliptical is a great workout, and it really helps to plug into some music.)

    We've had great success. He lost 100 lbs. his first 5 months, and has been maintaining since June. I've lost 104, and have 16 to go. We are both in our 50s. Good luck!
  • Hi...there are several good models of elliptical machines out there, ranging from a couple hundred dollars to upwards of a thousand (depending on how fancy the bells and whistles are). Go to a good sporting goods or department store (Academy, Sears, etc), try several different models and pick the one that feels best for you. I recently purchased and have begun using a machine by Xterra. Paid a little over 200 for it and LOVE IT. It has several preset routines you can choose from, as well as the ability to just set your own pace and time. It gives a great workout of both upper and lower body. You can work up a good sweat in as little as 10 to 15 minutes. I will give you one piece of advice...if you haven't used one before, do not push too hard to start. The first time I tried mine, I did about 10 minutes and thought I was going to die. I gradually increased by about 5 minutes every other day or so until I reached a point that felt comfortable. I now alternate my workouts...elliptical one day, stationary bike the next day, etc. Also, if you want to work on improving your core strength, try planking; but again, start slow. No more than 15 to 20 seconds the first time you try it; and gradually increase your time a few seconds each day as you work on maintaining good form and technique. Good luck to you; and if I can help out in any way, please let me know. :)
  • I chose a Ketler because it has steel ball bearings...sounded like a good idea for prolonged use by a heavy lady.
  • Fit4_Life
    Fit4_Life Posts: 828 Member
    I bought my NordicTrack Elliptical machine 3 years ago from Play it Again Sports; and love it! I tried other brands that have a smaller wheel than mine, and don't care for it one bit; it hurts my knees. But the elliptical is the best machine out there-I think. My endurance is great, I have lost weight and burn more calories than any other machine.