How much upper body work out are you actually getting from an elliptical?

Amerika · 02-10-2007, 06:11 PM

I do my elliptical at the highest incline at a failrly moderate to fast pace. How much upper body workout are you actually getting from a typrical elliptical machine?

Amerika · 02-11-2007, 12:42 AM

is it worth it?

SnowMongoose · 02-11-2007, 05:49 PM

Practically none.

woogie12 · 02-11-2007, 05:53 PM

It's probably hard to get a good real workout from one, but the way people usually do it they most definitely aren't. If you actually push and pull the handles hard and use less leg motion I guess you can slightly workout your upper body.

Hopefully someone with more knowledge can answer this.

**Standard** · 02-11-2007, 08:52 PM

I don't think anyone has ever had to get off of a eliptical because their arms were too tired to go on... so probably nothing for your arms unless your really pushing and pulling hard with your arms and not using your legs as much.

Dude seriously just do some pushups and CHINS to work your upper body at the end of your cardio, or even better try weight training.

king-tony · 02-11-2007, 09:00 PM

I would say that depends. If you are terribly overweight and sendentary, you might get something. If you are simply out of shape or better, the answer would be virtually none.

Bamaispriceless · 02-12-2007, 12:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Standard

I don't think anyone has ever had to get off of a eliptical because their arms were too tired to go on... so probably nothing for your arms unless your really pushing and pulling hard with your arms and not using your legs as much.

Dude seriously just do some pushups and CHINS to work your upper body at the end of your cardio, or even better try weight training.

Yeah, you should lift weights aswell.

Look Amerika, the elliptical is sort of overrated. Running is by far the most effective means of burning cals/cardio workout/etc...whereas the elliptical is near the bottom.

STWACOACH · 02-12-2007, 12:14 AM

The elliptical is good for recovery weeks etc. BUT for overall conditioning etc, it holds very little value.

KNUCKLEHEAD · 02-12-2007, 05:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bamaispriceless

Yeah, you should lift weights aswell.

Look Amerika, the elliptical is sort of overrated. Running is by far the most effective means of burning cals/cardio workout/etc...whereas the elliptical is near the bottom.

Just wondering, can you still get a reasonable workout and burn fat by using ONLY the elliptical? I'm flat footed and have had problems running. feel free to PM me.

ratman201 · 02-12-2007, 06:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KNUCKLEHEAD

Just wondering, can you still get a reasonable workout and burn fat by using ONLY the elliptical? I'm flat footed and have had problems running. feel free to PM me.

Ride a bike and eat less carbs. Also as another flat footed person a large reason for people being flat footed is that they arent on thier feet enough for the arch of thier foot to strengthen itself. Go to a good shoe store that specializes in running and don't be afraid to spend $100 on a pair of running shoes meant for a person with flat feet.