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    I feel using handleless machines gives me better cardio

    Posts: 447 Member
    edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
    When it comes to ellipticals, arc trainers, stair masters, etc... I noticed that my heart rate increases much easier when I'm using machines without handles. I feel like when I use handles, it takes pressure off of my legs and makes it harder to get an effective cardio workout. Also, I don't feel like the handles really do that much for the upper body. They are just sort of there for the ride. I feel like you can just use your own arms and perform a running motion if you wanna work upper body.

    Anyone else agree? It's easier to get my heart rate 15 to 20 beats higher with handleless machines. Sure, I can get it up higher with a handlebar. It's possible. But it takes a lot more concentration.

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    Replies

    • Posts: 18,878 Member
      I also feel it takes a bit more core and stability to go handleless.
    • Posts: 46 Member
      I prefer not to use handles for the reasons noted above.
    • Posts: 1 Member
      Yes, I have to agree. Handleless is much more challenging/better workout.
    • Posts: 1,509 Member
      Handleless is definitely more challenging. Which is wgy I don't dot that way yet. I'd end up losing my balance and killing myself at this point, lol.
    • Posts: 3,997 Member
      There are no handles when you're hiking (or running, for those who do that kind of thing) on flat trails or up/down hills. ;)

      However, handles on the elliptical and Stairmaster are safety devices and need to be there in case you lose your balance - - when you stop on the trail nothing is still moving under you - - but they are not intended to be used to support your body weight thru out a session as I've often seen them used.
    • Posts: 5,727 Member
      Then increase the load and drive harder with your arms.

    • Posts: 5,727 Member
      sgt1372 wrote: »
      There are no handles when you're hiking (or running, for those who do that kind of thing) on flat trails or up/down hills. ;)

      However, handles on the elliptical and Stairmaster are safety devices and need to be there in case you lose your balance - - when you stop on the trail nothing is still moving under you - - but they are not intended to be used to support your body weight thru out a session as I've often seen them used.

      Of course there are. Look at many of the ultra runners/walkers. They're using poles.
    • Posts: 480 Member
      edited December 2017
      stanmann571 wrote: »
      Then increase the load and drive harder with your arms.

      My thoughts exactly. For example, if you heart rate is 140 without handles and that's good for you then just up the speed/resistance/etc. when you use handles until your heart rate is 140. Maybe you're at a 7/10 without handles to get to 140 but a 9/10 to get to 140 with handles.

      Just don't use the calorie estimate from the machine because it will think you're burning a lot more on 9/10 using handles when you're probably not. The handles are just making it easier so that 9/10 is the same workout as 7/10 without handles.
    • Posts: 3,997 Member
      edited December 2017
      stanmann571 wrote: »
      show previous quotes

      Of course there are. Look at many of the ultra runners/walkers. They're using poles.

      Not the same thing. Poles are used for increasing energy used. Handles on cardio equipment is not.

      But you knew that already, didn't you. ;)
    • Posts: 5,727 Member
      sgt1372 wrote: »
      show previous quotes

      Not the same thing. Poles are used for increasing energy used. Handles on cardio equipment is not.

      But you knew that already, didn't you. ;)

      If you're not using the handles on the elliptical/arc trainer for increased energy, you're not doing the machine correctly.

      If we're talking about a treadmill or stairmaster, then yes, keep your hands off the handles.
    • Posts: 5,762 Member
      stanmann571 wrote: »
      show previous quotes

      If you're not using the handles on the elliptical/arc trainer for increased energy, you're not doing the machine correctly.

      If we're talking about a treadmill or stairmaster, then yes, keep your hands off the handles.

      But not all ellipticals have moving handles. Some are stationary, so those, obviously should not be used. Just thought I'd mention that since both the gyms I go to have a variety of very different ellipticals.
    • Posts: 41,865 Member
      I don't think you're really supposed to use the handles...I think they're their as a safety device...or to be used if you're really out of shape and need that assistance.
    • Posts: 7,865 Member
      sgt1372 wrote: »
      There are no handles when you're hiking (or running, for those who do that kind of thing) on flat trails or up/down hills.

      fwiw I usually carry poles for Ultras...

      I can sustain a faster pace across rough or muddy terrain using them, but the effect is a much harder workout on my shoulders and traps.
    This discussion has been closed.

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