Elliptical Trainers Purchasing and Maintenance Tips

Now that you already have an idea about the basic information regarding Elliptical Trainer, let us take a look at the key points that you need to remember when purchasing one, as well as what you need to know about its maintenance.

First, here is a quick list of the things that you need to remember when purchasing elliptical machines:

Check out merchant stores to get the cheapest elliptical machines in the market. For mid-range to high-end brands of Elliptical Trainer, you can go to fitness specialty stores or sporting goods stores.

Just as it is when purchasing any kind of equipment, make a comparison of the rates, features and the reliability of the brand of elliptical machines before making a final decision.

Consider just how vigorous your workout sessions are. If you are planning to use the elliptical machine more than twice a week, you may want to look at the mid-range to high-end brands to ensure that the equipment will last you for a long time.

Second, here is a list of the Elliptical Trainer maintenance tips that you should keep in mind:

Clean and lubricate the flywheel at least every week.

Remember that the more set of features that an elliptical machine has, the more difficult it is to clean, repair and maintain. Part of your maintenance responsibilities would be to clean the flywheel at least every week.

If there is a deeper mechanical problem and the warranty for the equipment has expired, make sure to look for a good local mechanic who will be able to perform the repairs needed.

Follow the care instructions as indicated in the manufacturer’s guide.

The first time that you purchase the elliptical machine, read the manufacturer’s guide and follow the care instructions to the letter.

If you want to keep your elliptical machines as spick-and-span as possible, place the equipment on top of an elliptical mat so that cleaning the exercise equipment would be easier.

Finally, you can put the elliptical machine on top of a mat to make cleaning the equipment a bit easier. There are also some do-it-yourself cleaning and repairing techniques that you can perform. This includes tightening screws, a few nuts and bolts and probably applying lubrication to squeaky joints.

Just make sure to order the parts from the manufacturer. Otherwise, if the repairs need to be done by a professional, make sure that they are authorized by the manufacturer.

With a bit of loving care and following the maintenance tips provided by the manufacturer, your elliptical machine should last you for a good number of years.

Elliptical Trainer Do’s and Don’ts

The Elliptical Trainer is especially suited to people with joint or back problems because it is a low-impact workout. When used properly, it can provide a whole body workout with less risk or strain than running on a treadmill.

Step onto the machine. Most Elliptical Machines have 2 sets of handles, 1 set that moves back and forth and 1 set that remains stationary. Grasp a stationary handle and step onto the furthest step. The step will move when you step on it, but will move less if the step is at the bottom of its rotation. Grasp the other handle and lift up the second foot. Steady yourself before continuing.

Align your feet with your hips. They should be exactly hip width apart. The feet should not turn inwards or outwards; they should also face straight forward. There are very large places for your feet on most elliptical. For many people, the hips will align in the inner-most edge; however it is not important to place your feet against any of the pedals' edges, as long as the feet and hips are aligned.

Stand up straight, keeping your spine in a neutral position to reduce stress on the back during the workout. Push your pelvis forward so you aren't overarching your back and pull your abdominal muscles in to support your back.

Start to pedal in a forward motion, in order to activate the screen on the elliptical. Keep your hands on the stationary handles so that you are steady while you are distracted by the screen.

Choose a low resistance setting, which will be levels 1 or 2 on most elliptical. Do not activate the incline. Set the timer for 10 minutes for your first time, and then increase to 30 minutes.

Start pedaling in a slow, fluid motion. The movement of an elliptical can be very awkward at first. The pedals move in a motion similar to a stationary bike; however, the arms mimic the moving of walking and running, with the opposite arm extending while the leg pedals.

Start your interval workout to maximize calorie burning and cardiovascular training.

• Do 5 minutes on level 1 or 2, while you get used to the motion of the elliptical machine and warm up your muscles. Feel free to stay on this level for your entire first workout.
• Follow with 5 minutes at a level of 3 or 4.
• Do 2 minutes at level 6, then return to level 3 for 2 minutes. Repeat the increase and decrease of tension levels in 2 minute intervals 1 to 4 more times, depending upon the length of your workout.
• Cool down with 5 minutes at level 1 or 2.

Stretch your hamstrings, quadriceps, arms, back and any other tight muscles after your workout. You have just finished a total body workout and stretching will help to heal your muscles and avoid soreness.

Repeat the Elliptical Trainer workout at least 3 times a week to burn calories and improve cardiovascular endurance.