Using a cross trainer is an incredibly effective way of not only improving your fitness and losing weight, but also keeping your general fitness at a good level. Elliptical machines allow you to save money, save space, and get a full-body workout rather than just targeting specific areas.
If you have just bought a cross trainer, and you have never used one before, then there are a few things that you can do, in order to make sure that you are getting the most out of your machine. With this in mind, here are a few tips that will let you use your cross trainer in the most effective way.
1. Vary the Incline and the Resistance
With most cross trainers, the one thing that you will find is that you are able to vary both the incline and the resistance of the machine. The good thing about this is that it will work different muscles at varying intensities, allowing you to tone specific areas. For example, an upward incline at a high resistance level allows you to really tone the gluteus maximus.
You don’t have to worry if you’re unfit because you can start off with a low resistance level and a low incline which allows you to gradually build your fitness levels whilst toning the entire time.
2. Make Use of the Built-in Programs
If you have purchased a particularly good cross trainer, then the chances are that there are going to be built-in programs. If you want to get the most out of your machine, then it is definitely a good idea to make sure that you take full advantage of these programs.
Take some time to properly look at all the different programs that are built into your machine to see what each of them offers. The good thing about built-in programs is that you are able to target specific muscle groups at a higher intensity, or even maximize your weight loss.
3. Do High-Intensity Interval Training
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a highly effective way of significantly boosting your fitness and even better for weight loss. It involves doing a set amount of time on your cross trainer at high intensity, then lowering the intensity for a brief period to recover, and then go back to high intensity again.
By working out in cycles like this, you are able to really maximize your results. If you are stuck on ideas then there are some great, free HIIT plans online that will give you a better idea of how to get the most out of your cross trainer whilst incorporating HIIT.
4. Use Online Workout Plans
Whilst there are built-in programs with most cross trainers these days, the last thing you want is to find yourself getting bored with your daily fitness regime. When you get bored, it is really hard to remain motivated. If you want to make sure that this doesn’t happen, then it is a good idea to take a look online.
There are a lot of websites out there that will be able to offer you free cross-trainer workout plans which will allow you to make sure that you are never bored of your daily fitness regime, and most of them are free, too.
By following these tips, you should have no trouble getting the very best out of your cross trainer. It will soon become your favorite piece of workout equipment, without a doubt.
For more information on cross trainers, visit CrossTrainerHome.Co.UK.
