I am a big fan of the elliptical trainer. I have had two successful, difficult grade treks just by training on it – Mt Kilimanjaro and Kokoda Track – of course, coupled with several outdoor activities. I love the way it works on the whole body, has less impact on the knees and is a great cardio workout. So, elliptical trainer for me, please!
Tracking my progress: I am on Week Two, reaching a 30 minute workout on Level 6, 7, 8 on the hill interval program – the closest I can get to simulating a climb indoors. In two weeks, I am happy to say, I have lost a kilo. I might be a bit too early in saying that I can see the faintest traces of “muscles” in the calf…
My present weight: 66 kgs
Height: 165 cms
Target weight: 60 kgs
(Note: Elliptical trainers have different programs, choose what is best for you and closest to your need. It is a good idea to change your programs once in a while too – thus work on different set of muscles)
My reasons for training on Elliptical trainers
1. Less impact on joints – perfect for my traumatized knee
Training on cross trainer / elliptical trainer has the same (I think better) results as that of a treadmill but with much less impact on the joints!
2. Great way to build quads, calf and hamstring
I read about a study that proved better results of the quadriceps and hamstring when using elliptical trainer. Apparently if you pedaled backwards, the results were better – something I am going to try for sure.
3. Perfect upper body workout
Yes, only an elliptical trainer requires you to use your arms giving you that much welcome shoulder, chest, biceps and triceps workout during the cardio workout.
Need to try: I have read that using the upright posture on an elliptical trainer utilize more core muscles and going “hands-free” without using the railing you can increase the balance and postural training effect!
Wish me luck!
