Elliptical question

ally1966

Cathlete
Hi, all! I bought an elliptical trainer this summer, and am now getting around to using it on a regular basis (daily) -- trying to work back up to Cathe cardio! I like it a lot, and I can go for about 20 solid minutes at an RPE of 5-7. My question is, should I trust, or even care about, the display on the elliptical? For my 20 minutes of effort, it shows that I'm going about .5 miles...and I know that if I were walking, I'd cover over a mile in that amount of time. Maybe I'm just looking for reassurance... I've been very hit-or-miss about exercise the last year; so, is it ok at this point to just get on the elliptical and work in the range that feels like *work* for me? Of course, I plan to increase time and speed as I'm able...

I'm off to school for the day...TIA for any thoughts/advice!
Allison
 
The calculations on machines all depend on a variety of factors.

Do you enter your weight into the computer? If not, then it's caculations are likely based on about 125 lbs.

Also, the calories burned are based on someone who does not exercise regularly. So if you have been exercising regularly for a while, it's probably showing more cals than what you're actually burning.

I think the distance is accurate.

But I think you've already answered your own question. Work at your own level. Get your heartrate up, use the "talk test," & you'll get results. Although I'd recommend more than 20 minutes--30-40 would be better.
 
Terri,

I love mine!! It fits in smaller spaces than the longer base one...I have had to replace the wheels on mine but they were only like $9.00..but as much as I use that thing it is no wonder!!! LOL

:)
 
I am bookmarking that site right now. I am expecting above average profits from my business this month so this may be a bonus to myself. I used one at the gym I went to while on vacation and LOVED it. So to see that they can be bought for this price and a huge area to put it isn't needed may be just what I need to get me to actually buy one. Thanks again Denise :) Do you remember how much shipping was?

Terri
 
Thanks, Maximus, for your answer! I'm afraid I fit the definition of someone who hasn't been exercising regularly, but I'm working hard to correct that! And I guess the bonus is that *maybe* I'm getting that higher calorie burn for now. But I hope to become more fit and efficient soon! I'm definitely aiming to reach a 30-45 minute workout -- and then move on to Cathe cardio. In the meantime, I appreciate the reassurance of knowing that if I push myself and do what feels like work for ME, then I'll improve over time.

My elliptical trainer is a NordicTrack, and I like it a lot -- but the Fitness Quest information looks great! I'd have been tempted to try that, if I'd known about it sooner. (Maybe I should have asked here before buying!)

Thanks again!
Allison
 
Oh Allison I just realized I kinda hijacked your thread with my wanting to know how pricey the elliptical was! SORRY:(

Terri
 

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