About Elliptical Training Software

Elliptical trainers can give you a great workout. Since they move your legs in a circular motion, they not only get your heart rate up quickly, but also help to tone the thighs and buttocks. Many models allow you to adjust your workout, and some have programs you can choose from to help vary your routine. Even so, if you use your elliptical on a regular basis, you may find yourself getting bored. Fortunately, there is software you can buy that can help bring more variety to your workouts and make them more interesting.

  1. Identification

    • An elliptical trainer is a large piece of equipment that is used for an aerobic or cardiovascular workout. Unlike a treadmill, on which you walk on a flat surface, ellipticals have two separate pedals. While keeping your feet in contact with the pedals, you move your legs in a circular pattern--almost like running, but with no impact. You can pedal forward or backward. Many ellipticals also have handlebars that move, so you can exercise your upper body as well. On most models, you can adjust the tension and incline to help add intensity to your workout. However, if you are looking for even more variety, you can purchase software with programs to take you through your workout. Using software can take the place of having to go to a class or gym to learn how to use your elliptical trainer and get ideas on how to vary your routine.

    Benefits

    • Using software with your elliptical trainer can take your workout to the next level. While you can always adjust the tension and incline on your own, it can be hard to motivate yourself to push a little harder. It is easy to fall into a pattern of doing the exact same workout every time you get on your elliptical. In addition, if you do not vary your workout routine from time to time, your body will adapt, and you will cease getting results. The best way to keep getting benefits is to keep your body guessing. This is especially true when you are trying to lose weight. A good way to do this is by using software that adjusts the tension and incline for you, and takes your body through a different workout each time. This type of workout is also known as interval training. Interval training alternates sections in which you work out hard with sections in which you take things easier. If you have hit a plateau, interval training can give your routine a needed jolt.

    Types

    • Software can be found online or come in the form of cards, DVDs or tapes. In choosing a format, the first issue to consider is where your elliptical is located. Some types of software require you to plug your elliptical into your CD player, DVD player or television. Since ellipticals are heavy and large, you may not be able to keep yours near a TV, unless you have a separate room or basement to put it in. Software that comes on a DVD or CD requires you to connect your elliptical to a DVD or CD player--two technologies that, fortunately, have become small and portable. You can also get software that is housed inside a card that is placed into the elliptical machine. Last but not least, there are online programs that merely require you to plug your elliptical into a computer with an Internet connection.

    Considerations

    • Most software is designed to be used with specific models of ellipticals. So if you want this option, make sure you buy the right elliptical machine. The most popular brands of ellipticals that can use software are Nordic Track, Free Spirit and Proform. When shopping--whether in a store on online--look for confirmation that the elliptical takes workout cards or allows for outside connections. If the thought of a computer program controlling your elliptical sounds scary, note that you can always manually override the settings while running the program.

    Features

    • Software comes with different programs and at different levels. The higher the level number, the more advanced the workout is. If you are new to exercise, try starting with a Level One workout. Levels Two and Three are usually better for people who have been exercising regularly for some time. Software also varies in terms of the length of the workout. It can be as little as 20 to 30 minutes or as much as 90. Some programs are specifically designed for fat burning and weight loss. Others are geared more toward building up strength and endurance.

      iFit is one of the largest manufacturers of software for not only ellipticals, but treadmills and bikes as well. (See Resources.). Their site features helpful product reviews, so you can know before you buy what type of workout you will be getting.

    Expert Insight

    • If you are looking for a distraction while using your elliptical, but you like the idea of controlling the intensity of the machine yourself, you can try virtual-reality software. This software plays on a TV or DVD player, and allows you to imagine that you are walking or running through a beautiful or exotic location. As you pedal the elliptical, you watch the scenery go by and hear the natural sounds of the area.

      Check out Treadmill America (follow the link in Resources) for sample videos. The downside is that you still need to push yourself to get a good workout while you watch the video. You also need to pay proper attention to your form. It is easy to get caught up in the video, and you may find you are not working out as intensely as you need to, and have started to use poor body mechanics.