New here, questions on elliptical and exercise in general
 

Hiya girls! I have just gotten a manual elliptical, and really have not exercised at all in a while. So I was wondering what is a good starting point for a beginner. Its in the living room so I plan on popping in a show to try to take my focus off of my gasping for air, and last a bit longer. Do you go more by time when you first start, is it better to go backwards or forwards or alternate? And yes I have turned the resistance all the way down lol... I'll be doing good just to stay on the darn thing. ;) Any advice is welcome!

And on exercise in general...I'm kinda leary about it, because a few months ago I got some aerobic dvds, did them faithfully every day for over a month and despite eating right and all that jazz, I didn't move an inch or a pound. So I pretty much got discouraged and quit (I know, I know, I shouldn't have but I did) But I heard the elliptical is fun and easy on the back, so I wanna give this a good go. Have u guys had the same experience when you were first starting, and a few stories of success or encouragement would be awesome :hint hint: :D

hey honeybear, the trainer at my gym suggested 2 minutes forwards and then 2 minutes backwards i started on 8 minutes all to gether and now am on 20 minutes altogether, so see how it goes!

I think its a great machine! I love working out on it. I feel results. Which I dont typically feel with the treadmill. I believe it really works the muscles in your legs.