proper technique for elliptical

missikay1970

i have searched but can't seem to find exactly what i'm looking for and i hope i can explain myself well enough. i love the elliptical, but there are two ways that i can do it, and i'm not sure which is correct. i have also seen other people doing both ways. (this is on the type of elliptical machine where the arm "rests" do not move - the handles are stationary.)

(1) i hold onto the handles and put alot of pressure on my arms so that my entire upper body is completely still. my legs work the elliptical and it's as if from my hips down are separate from my body. ONLY my legs move & my entire upper body is completely still.

(2) i LIGHTLY grasp the handles and my entire body moves as i work the elliptical. it's almost like the same motion as if i were lightly jogging. my pony tail will bounce, and i will feel as if i'm walking at a quick pace. it's a VERY different feel that the above mentioned.

which is correct? or are they both? which is the better work-out? sorry if this isn't clear, i might have to ask someone at the gym so i can show them in person.

ninerbuff

Keep both heel flat on the pedals and swing your arms. This is how I teach my clients. The more arm movement the better and you force all the weight on your legs this way too.

missikay1970

Keep both heel flat on the pedals and swing your arms. This is how I teach my clients. The more arm movement the better and you force all the weight on your legs this way too.

great - thank you. i do keep my feet flat, but i haven't been swinging my arms. will try that tomorrow - THANKS!

Tree72

You get a better workout if you don't hold on at all. Swing your arms like you are walking. That forces you to engage your core muscles to maintain balance. You actually burn a lot fewer calories (and risk shoulder injuries) if you lean onto the machine (part of your weight is supported and you don't have to work as hard.)

TXHunny84

Thank you for asking and those that answered. I have an elliptical witht he handles that move and I don't feel like I get the results I should have. I'll try to do it without holding on and see if I get better results.

UsedToBeHusky

bump