Are you ready to take off these extra layerings of fat from your skin?
If the thought of a heart-pumping, sweat-inducing workout gets you motivated, then you’re in the right lane, because we're about to enter into the statics of elliptical interval training!
Let's start with the basics. An elliptical trainer, also known as an elliptical cross trainer or elliptical machine, is a stationary exercise machine that mimics the motion of running, walking, or stair climbing.
But here's the twist– unlike a treadmill, which can be pretty harsh on your joints, the elliptical provides a low-impact workout by allowing your feet to glide smoothly along an elliptical path.
That's true, you get all the benefits of a killer cardio session without the added stress on your knees and joints. Winning, Right!
"The pain you feel today will be the strength you feel tomorrow."
Now, let's address the real deal question: "What is better on knees, treadmill or elliptical?"
The answer is simple – when it comes to protecting those precious joints, ellipticals are often considered the safer option. That low-impact design we talked about? It reduces the jarring impact on your knees and other joints, making the elliptical a suitable choice for those with joint issues or for anyone looking to minimize the risk of injury.
But wait, there's more!
We're not just talking about a casual stroll on the elliptical here. We're taking things up in a way with interval training.
Interval training is like the superhero of workouts – it alternates periods of high-intensity effort with periods of active recovery. This approach not only keeps your heart rate elevated throughout the workout but also challenges your body in new and exciting ways, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness, increased calorie burn, and potential muscle growth.
Talk about a triple threat!
By using an elliptical trainer for interval training, you can adjust the resistance levels and stride rates to create intense bursts of activity followed by recovery periods. This variation in intensity is what makes interval training so effective and challenging. It's like a roller coaster for your body – you'll be pushing yourself to the limits one minute and catching your breath the next. Trust me, it's an adrenaline rush like no other!
Now, you might be wondering, "How long should I be on the elliptical?"
The answer, my friend, depends on your fitness level and goals. If you're just starting out, a 20-30 minute session might be a good place to begin.
Key is to listen to your body and adjust the time and intensity accordingly. Remember, you're the boss of your body & workout, not the other way around.
Areas Targeted?
The key edge of the elliptical trainer is its ability to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously. By mixing arm movements and resistance, you can effectively target your upper body while also working your lower body and core.
During your training sessions, consider focusing on the following exercises to target specific muscle groups:
- Chest and Shoulders: Increase the resistance and push the handlebars forward and back, focusing on engaging your chest and shoulder muscles.
>>Sets: 3 | Reps: 15-20
- Back and Biceps: With a firm grip on the handlebars, pull them towards you while maintaining an upright posture. This targets your back and bicep muscles.
>>Sets: 3 | Reps: 12-15
- Core: Engage your core by maintaining a tight, upright position throughout the workout. You can also incorporate twisting motions or side-to-side movements for an added core challenge.
>>Sets: 3 | Reps: 20-30 seconds
- Quadriceps and Hamstrings: Adjust the resistance and stride rate to target your lower body muscles, focusing on pushing through your heels and engaging your glutes.
>>Sets: 3 | Reps: 20-30 strides
By into your fitness regimen, you can challenge yourself, burn more calories, and shed off those extra fat layering's in a low-impact, joint-friendly manner.
Ready to see what an elliptical interval training routine looks like? Here's a plan to get you started:
Elliptical Interval Training Routine:
Requirement: Elliptical Cross Trainer
- Warm-up: 5 minutes at a moderate pace
- Interval 1: 2 minutes at a high resistance and stride rate (80-90% effort)
- Recovery: 2 minutes at a lower resistance and stride rate (50-60% effort)
- Cool-down: 5 minutes at a moderate pace
Note: Repeat the interval and recovery phases 4-6 times, depending on your fitness level.
So, what are the benefits of elliptical trainer interval training, you ask?
- Full-Body Workout: Unlike some other cardio machines that mainly target the lower body, the elliptical trainer engages your arms, legs, and core, providing a comprehensive workout that sculpts and tones multiple muscle groups. Hello, total-body transformation!
- Low-Impact: We've already covered this one, but it's worth repeating – the smooth, elliptical motion of the foot pedals reduces stress on your joints, making it a safer option for those with joint issues or those recovering from injuries.
- Increased Calorie Burn: Interval training has been shown to burn more calories than steady-state cardio, both during and after the workout, due to the increased intensity and after burn effect. That's right, you'll be torching calories even after you've left the gym!
- Improved Cardiovascular Fitness: The high-intensity intervals challenge your heart and lungs, leading to improved cardiovascular endurance over time. Say goodbye to getting winded from simply climbing a flight of stairs!
- Versatility: Most elliptical trainers offer a variety of resistance levels and programmed workouts, allowing you to customize your routine and target specific fitness goals. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
- Time-Efficient: By incorporating high-intensity intervals, you can maximize the effectiveness of your workout in a shorter amount of time, making it a great option for those with busy schedules. Who doesn't love a time-saving hack?
Now, let's talk about choosing the best elliptical cross trainer in Australia. When shopping for an elliptical, consider factors such as:
- Stride Length: Look for a stride length that matches your height to ensure a comfortable and natural stride motion. Nobody wants to feel like they're doing the awkward penguin shuffle!
- Resistance Levels: More resistance levels offer greater versatility for challenging workouts. Variety is key to keeping things interesting and pushing your limits.
- Adjustable Incline: An adjustable incline can help target different muscle groups and increase workout intensity. Hello, sculpted legs and booty!
- Ergonomic Design: Prioritize machines with comfortable footpads, handlebars, and adjustable features for a personalized fit. Comfort is king when it comes to getting the most out of your workout.
- Additional Features: Look for extras like built-in workout programs, heart rate monitoring, and connectivity options for a more engaging experience. Who doesn't love a little extra motivation and entertainment?
Remember, proper form is crucial throughout the workout. Engage your core, maintain an upright posture, and adjust the resistance and stride rate to suit your fitness level. Don't be afraid to gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable with the routine.
Remember, consistency and proper form are key to achieving your desired results. With dedication and perseverance, you can unleash your fitness potential and experience the transformation benefits of this dynamic workout.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers, jump on that elliptical, and get ready to sweat! Your fitter, stronger self is just a few high-intensity intervals away.