Do Elliptical Machines Work For Burning Fat?
Posted: Tuesday, March 31, 2009
by Simon Patterson
http://www.elliptical-machines.net
The main goal of cardiovascular activity with elliptical machines is no different to that of using treadmills or stationary bikes; to increase aerobic fitness. To become fitter, we are trying to increase the hearts capacity to supply the body's muscles with more oxygen. As a result, the metabolism increases and the body burns stored fat quicker, aiding weight loss.
The emphasis however with cardio training is that if our goal is also to burn fat, a constant pace over a period of time during a workout, is not going to be half as effective as training with intervals. Cardio workouts should be performed at least four times a week, lasting for at least twenty minutes. Unless you are breaking a sweat, then you are not optimizing your workout to burn fat.
Elliptical machines are perfect for burning body fat through interval training. The key is to alternate average-intensity pace with high-intensity bursts. Unlike with treadmills where your joints and muscles will suffer more stress, elliptical machines make interval training much easier on the body but still help effectively burn body fat and tone.
Depending on your current level of aerobic fitness, you may find initial attempts at interval training quite difficult but by limiting your maximum bursts to 60 seconds and your normal rate to 60 seconds, the body will soon adapt.
The great benefit with elliptical machines is that cardio workouts can be performed in reverse motion. Whether you are targeting fat burn with a constant pace in your workout or performing interval training, reverse motion targets all the muscles you would not normally use. Optimal fat burn can be achieved with this motion, as the heart and muscles have to work much harder.
Whether you decide to use elliptical machines for aerobic fitness or burning unwanted fat is entirely up to you. Always make sure to consult a doctor before taking on such workout routines, especially if you have suffered injuries or have a history of heart or respiratory problems in the past.
No matter how intense the workout, elliptical machines are by far an extremely enjoyable method to burning fat and improving aerobic fitness. By working hard and keeping motivated, you can be well on your way to achieving that perfectly toned body.
Simon P is currently the author of www.elliptical-machines.net and is dedicated to providing fresh information and product reviews on everything about elliptical machines. There is no need to doubt elliptical machines so why not join every other home elliptical user and click here for more FREE information. You have nothing to lose but weight!
This Article has been viewed 312 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.