How To Use an Elliptical Trainer Kingston NY

The elliptical trainer, sometimes still referred to as a crosstrainer by exercise veterans, combines the fluidity of running with the low-impact motion of bicycling. The elliptical trainer puts a minimal amount of strain on your joints, yet provides one of the best workouts available today.

1. Leg Movement. The elliptical trainer has a pair of foot pedals for your feet. As you get on the machine for the first time, pay attention to your foot placement. Each foot needs to be securely placed on its pedal; optimally, this will be on the center of each pedal. Your stride length should feel natural. A stride length that is too long and wide makes for an uncomfortable workout (and we all know that's the fastest method for quitting an exercise program).
   
   On the flip side of this, a stride length that is too short is apt to create an unpleasant jerky movement. Exercising on an elliptical trainer is not supposed to feel like you're a participant in a bunny hop contest. Some newer elliptical trainers now offer an adjustable stride length. This is great news for gym owners and others who need to share their equipment with people of different stature.
2. Arm Movement. Most elliptical trainers have a pair of handles connected to your foot pedals. As your feet move, so do the arm handles. Moving your arms is optional; you can choose to lightly grasp the stationary handlebar found in-between the two swinging handles.
   
   A third choice is not to hold onto anything at all. Moving your arms in a manner similar to that of a runner or speed walker is the best option for increasing the intensity of your workout. Not holding onto anything causes the stabilizing muscles of your midsection (known as the core) to work harder, thus maximizing your calories burned.
   
   If you choose to hold onto the handles of the elliptical trainer, whether they are movable or stationary, take care to do so gingerly. Leaning with your bodyweight on the handles will only decrease the intensity of your lower body workout, slowing the calorie burn....

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Author: Stacy Popke