Any tips for elliptical training and endurance ?

  • Hi all..I'm Lisa and I need tips for elliptical use. I'm dyin after a few minutes! I will say I'm outta shape and excersise is not a familiar friend lol. I'm 5'8 and 170..but most of my weight is in my belly and what'd id give to have a flatter stomach. I have had 7 children ranging from 22-4. I do not want surgery to do this. Has anyone had success with losing a lot of belly fat with elliptical and diet changes, if so anything particular ? any advice would b appreciated !
  • Hi Lisa! Welcome!
    What resistance number do you have the elliptical set on? When I first started using it, I had it on 1 or 2...and I struggled after 10 minutes! What worked for me is this: I kept it on that low number and did 10-15 minutes everyday for that week. Rest on the weekend. The next week I'll go for 15-20 minutes almost everyday. Weekend rest. Then, I raised the resistance a notch and went for 25-30 minutes...etc. After all the low, gradual increments, I now put the resistance to number 7 and go for an hour. Slow and steady wins the race. I don't know if this will work for you or not, but it's worth a shot! Also, be sure to stretch before and after you get on the elliptical. The elliptical helped me lose a lot of belly fat, but everyone tends to lose weight in different places, so it may or may not work the same way for you.
    Good luck!
  • I forgot to mention one more thing! Depending on the brand of elliptical depends on how hard it is to use. Precor is very easy to use, and you still get a good work out, too. However, most other brands (I believe LifeFitness is one? I could be wrong) are EXTREMELY hard to use!! I used to use an elliptical (forgot the name of the brand) with the power off, no resistance, and I'd be dying after a few minutes. So keep an eye out on the brand, too!