Elliptical question

spulsifer92
spulsifer92 Posts: 36
in Fitness and Exercise
So I get cardio everyday on my elliptical. I vary the programs on the machine, but how can I vary the muscles i use and get a better workout?

Replies

  • MinnieInMaine
    MinnieInMaine Posts: 6,400 Member
    increase resistance and change the incline
    go backwards
    don't hold onto the rails (so you use your core), pump your arms like you're running
    once you get used to not holding on, use your arms to do other movements like punches, shoulder presses, delt raises
    squat down a bit to trigger quads

    To burn more calories, do high intensity intervals - faster or higher resistance

    Really though, if you want to develop muscles, you need to do actual weight training exercises. Before you hop on your elliptical, do some body weight exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, crunches, planks, tricep dips, etc. Buy some hand weights or use filled gallon jugs to do bicep curls, chest presses, shoulder presses, etc

    Have fun!
  • meshashesha2012
    meshashesha2012 Posts: 8,329 Member
    So I get cardio everyday on my elliptical. I vary the programs on the machine, but how can I vary the muscles i use and get a better workout?

    by getting off the elliptical and doing actual strength training work. not saying that the elliptical doesnt have it's uses for cardio, but if you want to work your muscles then work your muscles
  • spulsifer92
    spulsifer92 Posts: 36
    I do have hand weights. its hard to do exercises like that because my cat and dog like to try and help me workout when I do those types :)
  • maroonmango211
    maroonmango211 Posts: 908 Member
    I do intervals of faster with medium resistance and slower with high resistance as well as backwards and forwards. I have also started concentrating on where I put my weight (heel/balls of feet) and the position of my legs (standing tall/squatting) and am finding it is really working my muscles differently playing around with combinations.
  • slomo22
    slomo22 Posts: 125 Member
    Bro do you even lift!
  • bugaboo_sue
    bugaboo_sue Posts: 552 Member
    I do have hand weights. its hard to do exercises like that because my cat and dog like to try and help me workout when I do those types :)

    Lock them out of the room. When I run on the treadmill, throw my bike on the trainer or do an exercise video at home I have to lock my dog out.

    Or join a gym and not worry about your pets bothering you.

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