Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
So, you have finally decided to purchase an elliptical after a long time of comparing different pieces of workout equipment. You have narrowed down your choices, but have a few questions. We have taken the time to answer some, listed below and answered to the best of our abilities. We have combined our knowledge as well as the knowledge from other elliptical users to answer these important questions.
Front Drive or Rear Drive – Which One is Better For Me?
This question is one of the ones we hear the most frequently and it makes a big difference. Rear drive ellipticals typically have a smoother feel to them because the drive axle is located in the back of the machine. This also delivers a smoother feel on the pedals. While it is great, it is also a little more expensive. Most people find that even though the front drive ellipticals have a little rougher feel to them, the price is affordable. It basically depends on the preference of the buyer and the budget.
What Happens if There is a Malfunction on the Display?
In most cases, the batteries need to be replaced. Low batteries cause the display to flicker. If it flickers even when new batteries are put in, try unplugging the machine, then plugging it in again after a few minutes. If it still does not work, then the display may be damaged in some way.
Why Doesn’t the Heart Rate Monitor Work?
Sadly, most ellipticals come with poor heart rate monitors that are inaccurate and don’t last for a very long time. They are just added in for the purpose of luring more people into buying the machine. They are not meant to provide intensely accurate heart readings or to last very long. If it operates in an off-and-on pattern, the problem may be with the grip on the handlebars. Keep your hands on the handlebars and do not grip them too tightly.
Is Stride Length that Important?
Stride length is important, actually. It determines how your workout will feel. For example, longer strides will make you feel like you are leaping, which is a preferable setting for taller people. Shorter strides will make you feel like you are climbing stairs. Stride length determines how your workout will feel, so choose the setting that fits best to your needs.
Can I Use a Surge Protector? Should I?
Most people will not believe that they need to, but they should. All plug-in models should use a surge protector. However, self-generating models do not apply and do not need to use a surge protector.
Is the Machine With the Heavier Flywheel a Good Option?
The weight of the flywheel directly influences the smoothness of your workout. The heavier flywheels tend to produce a higher inertia, making your workout smoother.
Is Regular Maintenance Necessary?
Yes, it is. For all fitness machines, maintenance is necessary to help it function properly. The maintenance rules should be listed in the manual of the machine and should be followed accordingly. Even though most ellipticals do not need constant maintenance, it is important to keep it well-kept. When in doubt, read through the manual and you may find your answer there.
Help! My Console Display Won’t Light Up!
There is no need to panic. For most plug-in models, simply unplug the machine and wait 60 seconds or more, then plug it back it. This method will most likely reset the display and restore it to its original condition. Also, checking the batteries won’t hurt. If the problem still persists, check out the machine and make sure nothing is caught or damaged. If something happens to be damaged, consult your owner’s manual for more details and call a specialist to come out and look at it.
How Can I Change the Resistance?
Reference the owner’s manual to see how you can adjust the cable that is connected to the tension control. You should be able to change the resistance to fit your needs.
What is an Elliptical Crosstrainer and What Does it Do?
Ellipticals that included upper body handlebars were named crosstrainers, since they worked out the upper body as well as the lower body. Using the handlebars will exercise the shoulders, chest, arms, and back and strengthen those muscles. The majority of elliptical machines now have handlebars.
The Pedal Arms Won’t Move Anymore. What Do I Do?
Just check to see if all the working parts of the machine are well-oiled. In some cases, the bearings and cranks may need to be replaced. Consult your owner’s manual for more details.
My Elliptical Squeaks Every Time I Use It. What’s Up?
There is probably an assembly issue, so be sure to check the machine and see if all the screws are tightened according. If there are a few screws look, you can attempt to tighten them, but do not over tighten them, as that will cause wear and tear on the machine the next time you use it. If the squeaking continues, consult your owner’s manual for lubrication instructions or call a professional if the problem becomes unbearable.
What’s the Best Kind of Resistance System?
The most advanced kind of silent drive that is publically available is the eddy-current resistance system. The system is powered by magnets and is positioned near the flywheel within the machine. The resistance can be changed by moving the magnet away and towards the spinning flywheel. This kind of system is found on the more expensive, high-end elliptical models.
With this kind of information, you are now ready to start using your new elliptical to its full capacity. As long as you keep it maintained and in good shape, it should last you a long time and eventually pay for itself.
If there are any other problems that occur with your elliptical, always check the owner’s manual first to see if your problem has a simple solution. If the problem persists and there seems to be no solution that you can come up with, call a specialist to come out and take a look at your machine.
Will elliptical help lose weight?
It definitely will help you lose weight. With a 30-minute medium elliptical workout, you can lose between 1-2 lbs per week. But you have to pay attention to your diet. A lot of users train really hard on elliptical, just to snack extra to ruin all the hard work. If you can add some bodyweight training with your elliptical exercise, you can boost overall weight loss.
Will elliptical build muscle?
In short, No. If your goal is to build muscles and do cardio, we would suggest getting a rowing machine. Elliptical’s main purpose is to burn calories, and while doing that it strengths a lot of muscle areas.
Will elliptical reduce belly fat?
If your main target is to reduce belly fat, we would suggest you look into our list of best rowing machiens. Elliptical is not very effective in reducing belly fat. Elliptical is good for full body workout. You will definitely burn a lot of calories with an elliptical with in time will reduce your belly fat.
Will elliptical help with running?
Elliptical trainers will definitely help you strengthen your stamina and strength if you use it regularly following your heart rate zone.You can start your running exercise in an elliptical first, gain stamina and then move on to a treadmill or on the road. Even though we always say “Elliptical trainers simulate running, while being easy on your joints”; many users say the elliptical motion is not the same as running. Your running form and posture will not improve on an Elliptical as they will on a treadmill.
Will fitbit track elliptical?
Yes, yes but you will need a charge 2 or higher model. So far, I can’t make my charge 2 track my Elliptical training automatically. I simply to Select exercise than select elliptical as my mode of exercise. The calories burn is almost the same as the calories burn ina Sole E35 model [which is very accurate].
Can elliptical cause knee pain?
It can. Please read this article for details.
Which elliptical is best for me?
It depends based on your preference. We try to categorize elliptical machines based on User’s weight, Height, budget and available space in the room. But we understand every user’s preference is unique and this is not possible to suggest a specific Elliptical with just these 4 factors. That’s why we created multiple lists based on market price only.
Which elliptical burns the most calories?
There is no sure way to say that a specific elliptical burns more calories than others. Calorie burning depends on your metabolism and training intensity. Even the most simple elliptical can help you burn the same amount of calories as the most expensive elliptical. As we do not have much control over our metabolism, we would suggest you get an elliptical that has automatic programs to keep you pushing.
