Elliptical Workouts For the Beginner to the Advanced

The elliptical is a mainstay in the gym for good reason: it’s easy on the joints and it provides a great cardio and total-body workout. But let’s face it, the elliptical can also get pretty boring and repetitive. Instead of spending 30 mindless minutes on the machine, maximize your time with one of these 15 workouts. Whether you’re a beginner, you’re looking for a high-intensity interval workout, or you want to challenge different muscle groups, there’s an elliptical workout for you. There’s even one for those of you who love the treadmill!

1. Beginner: If you’re new to the elliptical machine – or working out in general – try this beginning elliptical workout. It uses all the different features of the machine, which gives you an idea of what it can do. By pedaling forward, you work your quads, and going backward targets the hamstrings and booty. Focus on pushing the handles to tone your chest, while pulling the handles will work your upper back. Challenge your core stability by letting go of the handles while keeping your pace steady.
2. Start strong, finish strong: This beginner-friendly hour-long elliptical workout varies speed and incline for an effective workout.
3. Booty workout: Target glutes and hamstrings by playing with the incline on the elliptical. This elliptical booty workout will help you tone your backside while also getting a good cardio workout. Target your glutes by focusing on keeping your heels down while on the machine.
4. Core workout: To work your core while on the elliptical, just let go. Not using the handles in this elliptical core workout helps engage all the muscles of your core as you work harder to stay balanced on the machine. The faster you can go, the more you’ll work your core in this.
5. Just like the treadmill: For times when you can’t find an empty treadmill at the gym, try this elliptical treadmill workout. The workout comes close to mimicking what running on a treadmill feels like and may even help even out your stride. To really feel like you’re on a treadmill, don’t hold onto the handles; keep your arms in a running position.
6. Two-machine workout: Or if the idea of the treadmill bores you, get a fun workout on the other cardio machines at your gym. This stationary bike and elliptical workout will leave you sweaty without the run.
7. Short on time: When you don’t have a lot of time, try this short interval elliptical workout. It’s only 22 minutes long…

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