How to do the Elliptical Trainer
- To begin, step onto the elliptical and select the desired option from the menu. Most ellipticals have a manual setting, or you can select a program to run. Typically, you can enter your age and weight to estimate the amount of calories burned during exercise. Elevation can be adjusted to change the intensity of the workout.
- The handles can be used to monitor your heart rate to help you stay at an appropriate intensity.
Muscles worked
| Role | Muscles |
|---|---|
| Primary | quads |
| Secondary | calves, glutes, hamstrings |
| Equipment | machine |
| Difficulty | intermediate |
No machine? Train the same muscles with these
Ordered by how likely you are to own the 6 options.
Easier than the Elliptical Trainer
Same movement pattern, lower entry difficulty — work up from here.
Harder than the Elliptical Trainer
Common questions
What muscles does the Elliptical Trainer work?
The Elliptical Trainer primarily works the quads, with the calves, glutes, and hamstrings as secondary movers. Bicycling, Bicycling, Stationary, and Recumbent Bike train the same muscle, across 9 equipment types.
What equipment do you need for the Elliptical Trainer?
A Machine. Without a machine, Trail Running/Walking, Alternate Leg Diagonal Bound, and Bench Jump train the same muscle, and 27 of the catalogue's options for this muscle need no equipment.
Is the Elliptical Trainer suitable for beginners?
It is rated intermediate. Start with Bicycling, Bicycling, Stationary, and Recumbent Bike and work up.
Similar exercises
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