Hi everyone, I have been going to the gym for sometime now but I have only been using the treadmill. I wanted to step up my routine a little bit so I decided to try the eliptical since I heard it is a pretty good workout. Well I got on it and after 4 minutes my legs were cramping and they felt like jello, I felt like I was going to fall down. I didn't think much of it at the time, I got off and went and did the treadmill again. I figured I was just tired or something. Well I have tried the eliptical a couple more times and the same thing happened. I see everyone else get on it and are able to do it for quite some time..why can't I? Does anyone know the cause. Is it lack of muscle? Any thoughts would be great
A question for anyone who knows anything about gym equipment
- Thread starter skittley
- Start date
The elliptical settings could be on a more difficult setting. That's the obvious answer.
However, from my experience working in the gym I can tell you that the elliptical is more of a workout then the treadmill. Note: I did not say it's better! Many people are not used to the movement of the elliptical and therefore they tire quickly.
If your legs got all weak and jello-like than you were exhausted. Assuming it was not a one time thing (since you mentioned it has done so several times) I would recommend doing the elliptical at a slower pace or lighter intensity. Work your way up to higher intensities.
Quick note: be sure you are eating before your workout (1-2 hours before us usally good).
However, from my experience working in the gym I can tell you that the elliptical is more of a workout then the treadmill. Note: I did not say it's better! Many people are not used to the movement of the elliptical and therefore they tire quickly.
If your legs got all weak and jello-like than you were exhausted. Assuming it was not a one time thing (since you mentioned it has done so several times) I would recommend doing the elliptical at a slower pace or lighter intensity. Work your way up to higher intensities.
Quick note: be sure you are eating before your workout (1-2 hours before us usally good).
Thanks Trainer Lynn, I did have it set on the lowest incline and the lowest intensity all times I was on it. So I did notice one thing you said, you said that the eliptical is the more of a workout than the treadmill, but not better..what would you say is the best piece of equipment for me. I am 26 years old, 201 pounds, and wanting to burn some major calories. Thanks again
What matters is your intensity level. The elliptical may be easier on your joints than the treadmill. A lot of people confuse cardio workouts for muscle workouts. For example: I want to work my legs so I'll ride the bike.
That's half true. Your leg muscles work, but it's a cardio workout. So your main goal should be cardiovascular in nature.
The best thing you can do right now is start a great weight training program and cardio routine. Also a great menu. Weight training is an excellent way to rev up the metabolism and decrease body fat.
That's half true. Your leg muscles work, but it's a cardio workout. So your main goal should be cardiovascular in nature.
The best thing you can do right now is start a great weight training program and cardio routine. Also a great menu. Weight training is an excellent way to rev up the metabolism and decrease body fat.
That's not necessarily true. Going at too high of an intensity will put you in the anaerobic zone, but there is no "fat burning" zone. I could write about this for an hour and 27 minutes 
but to sum it up... vary your cardio intensity levels and time spent doing it.
but to sum it up... vary your cardio intensity levels and time spent doing it.