Cardio… loved by some of us, dreaded by others, it’s first and foremost an endurance activity, and one that often comes up in conversations about cellulite! Cardio covers all sports activities that build endurance by raising your heart rate.
These are the activities that really get your whole body moving: to sustain the effort, your body needs a huge amount of energy. Skipping rope, elliptical trainer, stepper, running… There are plenty of options to get you sweating while having fun!
Today, we’d like to introduce you to a cardio activity that’s ideal for looking after your figure and complementing your anti-cellulite routine: the elliptical trainer, also known as the cross trainer. This one machine combines the benefits of cycling, running, the stepper and the rowing machine, all in one! We’ll talk you through its benefits, then share our tips for getting the most out of your sessions.
The elliptical trainer works (almost) every muscle in your body
That’s right — using this machine, you engage every muscle group without even realising it! The pedalling motion works your calves, thighs and glutes, while the handles bring your arm and shoulder muscles into play. Bonus: if you keep your back straight, your abs get a workout too!
The elliptical trainer and cellulite: a great addition to your routine
As a cardio activity, the elliptical trainer encourages your body to get moving and fits easily into your wellness routine, alongside a varied diet and good everyday habits (see also our tips for looking after your body).
The elliptical trainer is suitable for everyone
Do you have joint issues or are you carrying extra weight? This machine may suit you. Its natural movement mimics running, but without the impact on the ground, so it’s nice and gentle, and every movement is smooth and fluid. If in doubt, check with your GP before getting started.
The elliptical trainer: a good workout without wearing yourself out
The elliptical trainer lets you exert yourself without exhaustion, as the effort is spread across your entire body. To make the most of it, plan at least two 45-minute sessions per week, adapted to your own pace and fitness level.
The elliptical trainer: a cardio classic
Cardio activities in general are endurance activities, and a great way to keep moving. Used regularly, the elliptical trainer will help you get back in the habit of exercising… and stay there! For any questions about your health or your heart, ask your doctor for advice.
Elliptical trainer and strength training: two complementary activities
The elliptical trainer is first and foremost a cardio activity. Strength training and the elliptical trainer are two complementary activities with different goals, so there’s nothing stopping you from doing both, at your own pace.
As for the famous “before and after”, every body changes in its own way. What matters most is consistency, as we explain just below.
How to make the most of your elliptical session?
Now that you know the benefits of the elliptical trainer, here are a few tips to make each session as effective as possible…
During an elliptical session, beat the boredom!
There’s no denying it — this activity, however well-rounded, is repetitive and can get tedious. So if you’ve invested in an elliptical trainer, position it in front of your TV and put on a show you enjoy — it’ll also give you a time goal! A radio programme, an audiobook or a playlist works just as well.
Plan your sessions in advance
As with all cardio activities, consistency is key to making it a real habit. There’s little point pushing yourself every day for two weeks only to abandon it for the next two years! So, set a training frequency that feels sustainable, then gradually increase it.
Don’t forget your water bottle!
You’re going to work hard and sweat, and that’s perfectly normal. But since our bodies are made up mostly of water, they hate feeling dehydrated. So remember: for every ¾ of an hour on the elliptical, drink at least 500 ml of water. This good habit is worth keeping up every day, during your sessions and beyond.
Pay attention to your posture
If you start to hunch over and stare at your feet, you risk hurting yourself and feeling less comfortable! Keep your back straight, your feet firmly planted against the front of the footplates, and your gaze forward — not on the machine’s screen. This posture also helps you engage all your muscles properly.
Don’t forget, ladies: alongside regular exercise and a varied diet, skin-rolling massages have their place in your anti-cellulite routine.
Put together your ideal routine with the Anti-Cellulite Method Pack!
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Useful categories: Slimming Exercises.
