The elliptical cross trainer is a popular cardio machine, however, there are a few common mistakes that people make which they need to avoid when using the elliptical. Making these mistakes reduces the effectiveness of the workout or can even lead to injury. Through this article, you will learn how this low-impact, easy-to-use, equipment provides a great workout for your entire body if you use it the right way.
Related: Best Elliptical Cross Trainer for Home Gym in UAE [2023]
Here are some of the most common elliptical cross trainer mistakes to avoid:
1. Not warming up before your workout
Warming up helps to prepare your body for exercise and reduce the risk of injury. Before you start your elliptical workout, take a few minutes to walk or jog slowly, and then do some dynamic stretches, such as arm circles and leg swings.
2. Using improper form
Maintaining good form is essential for getting the most out of your elliptical workout and preventing injury. When you’re using the elliptical, keep your back straight, your shoulders relaxed, and your core engaged. Avoid leaning on the handlebars, as this can reduce the intensity of your workout.
3. Not using your arms
The elliptical is a full-body workout machine, so don’t forget to use your arms! For the most effective workout, pump your arms back and forth while you’re using the elliptical.
4. Not varying your resistance level
If you always use the same resistance level, your body will get used to it and you won’t be getting as much out of your workout. To keep your workouts challenging, vary the resistance level throughout your workout.
5. Not cooling down after your workout
Cooling down helps your body to recover from exercise. After your elliptical workout, take a few minutes to walk or jog slowly, and then do some static stretches, such as holding each stretch for 30 seconds.
Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of your elliptical cross trainer workouts:
- Set goals. What do you hope to achieve with your elliptical workouts? Do you want to lose weight, improve your cardiovascular health, or build muscle? Once you know your goals, you can create a workout plan that will help you achieve them.
- Listen to your body. If you’re feeling pain, stop and rest. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially when you’re first starting out.
- Make it fun. If you’re not enjoying your workouts, you’re less likely to stick with them. Find ways to make your elliptical workouts more fun, such as listening to music or watching TV.
You can make the most out of your elliptical cross trainer and achieve your fitness goals if you avoid these common mistakes and follow these tips.
How can an Elliptical Cross Trainer Improve Your Cardiovascular Health?
Using an elliptical cross trainer is one of the best decisions you can make to improve your cardiovascular health. Cross trainers provide a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints of the users, thereby making them a good choice for people with different fitness and energy levels. Over time, you will definitely see the results. We have penned down some tips for you so you don’t have to go elsewhere to find them.
1. Always Begin with a Warm Up
A warm up will help to prepare your body for the workout session and also reduce your risk of injury. An ideal warm-up before using the elliptical trainer includes 5-10 minutes of light cardio, like jogging or walking, followed by some dynamic stretches, like arm circles and leg swings.
2. Adjust the Incline and the Resistance Levels
Never stick to the same resistance and incline if you want to progress and need to achieve your fitness goals. Using the functionality of incline and resistance on your elliptical and adjusting these with time will give you better results. If you’re a beginner, then start off with a low incline and resistance level. Once you get used to the elliptical, gradually increase the incline and resistance. This will not only make your workout challenging but also interesting.
3. Monitor your Heart Rate during Workout
Believe it or not, our heart rate is a good indicator of how hard you are working. Aim for a heart rate that is within your target heart rate zone. Your target heart rate zone is the range of heart rates at which you are working hard enough to improve your cardiovascular health without overexerting yourself. You can use a heart rate monitor to track your heart rate during your workout. Consider purchasing the best smartwatch to keep track of your heart rate and many more things.
