Getty Images/Design by Cristina Cianci
In This Article
Real talk: Is an elliptical workout agoodworkout?
It promises a safe and effective, full-body workout but how effective is that workout, exactly?
Keep reading to find out.
Getty Images/Design by Cristina Cianci
Meet the Experts
What Are The Benefits?
But beyond being unlikely to cause you harm, what are elliptical machines good for?
It makes perfect sense that an elliptical machine is safe for beginners.
on machines such as a stair climber or a treadmill.
What Are The Downsides?
Ellipticals are a safe option for a full-body cardio workout, but that doesnt make them free of flaws.
That lack of change can make the time spent on one seem endless, or at least slow-moving.
The move youre doing on an elliptical is for the duration.
Additionally, an elliptical workout can only be so challenging.
Cunningham says that they may be too low impact for people who are aiming for a more intense exercise.
What Muscles Do Ellipticals Use?
When using an elliptical, the arms are generally optional.
Is an Elliptical Workout a Good Workout?
In short, yesthe ellipticalisa good workout.
Ellipticals have enough going for them that they can be considered a good form of exercise.
There are a few reasons for this.
How Long Does It Take To See Results?
If youre looking for visible changes to your physique, those may take a bit longer.
Planning on six-to-eight weeks to see results from your elliptical workouts should be a safe bet.
How Many Calories do Ellipticals Burn?
Despite being free of impact, ellipticals are still solid calorie burners.
The answer to that is: pretty much any other form ofcardio.
Cunningham favors atreadmillfor calorie burn and notes that simple jump ropingis one of his favorites.
Jones thinks that a stationary or recumbent bike makes for an efficient cardio workout.
Bottom Line
Are you still wondering if you should bother working out on an elliptical machine?
If you have joint pain or injuries, you would benefit from incorporating an elliptical into your routine.
If youre a beginner to fitness, theyre a great way to build your cardiovascular endurance slowly.
