How To Develop The Ideal Elliptical Workout For A Runner

Elliptical machines can provide runners with an intense, satisfying workout on rest days, during cross-training sessions, and as a warm up before speed work, tempo runs, or on long-distance endurance runs. By varying the intensity, tempo, and type of work out a runner has on a weekly basis, new muscle groups are put into action and sore legs can receive a break while still keeping form and fitness. Since an elliptical workout machine mimics the body’s natural running gait, runners can reap tremendous rewards by putting them to work during rest days after runs.

Additionally, many elliptical machines provide an upper-body and arm workout that can’t be achieved with running alone. By creating an elliptical workout plan, runners of any speed and fitness level can increase their mileage while reducing their pace time.

Elliptical machines are designed to mimic stair climbing, walking, and running without putting pressure on joints in the knee, ankle, foot, and hip. By allowing a user to reduce the strain placed on these key joints, muscle tenderness and inflammation is reduced when using these low-impact devices. The machines are not only useful for people with joint pain; they are also excellent sources of cross-training for runners: the natural movement of the machine allows runners to simulate a long training session without placing additional strain on joints. Using elliptical trainers on days between runs can allow muscles to stay limber while reducing the risk of overuse injuries and swelling. The cardiovascular workout is similar to running, while leaving runners protected from overusing key muscle groups and ligaments.

Many additional benefits to creating an elliptical workout plan are the features provided by many models. Incorporating heart rate monitors, calorie counters, and abdominal exercise mechanisms, an elliptical workout machine can help runners build core strength. Life fitness elliptical machines, for example, provide heart rate hand sensors on all models. Many models also include chest straps and are compatible with external heart rate devices. Life fitness elliptical machines also include settings and workout programs which target abdominal and arm strength, which allows runners to work out these key muscle groups when running alone cannot do so. As an added bonus, the available models also include coaching programs and hill settings which allow runners to maintain focus and create a structured workout without needing to keep track of mileage and pace.

Schwinn elliptical machines also provide the valuable assets of heart rate monitoring and targeted muscle workouts. Most models also include a variable stride system, which allows users to use the machines for step workouts, walking, and running simulation. Using these three settings can allow runners to pinpoint their workouts to specific muscle groups within the legs, which boosts performance on race day. Added perks on the available Schwinn elliptical machine models include space-saving dimensions, MP3 player compatibility, bi-directional pedaling, and programmable workouts that help runners make the most of their cross training.

Alongside the perks of including elliptical training in a runner’s arsenal of cross training, having a pair of dependable cross training shoes for non-running workouts is essential. By dedicating a pair of cross training shoes to workouts at the gym, on exercise machines, on bike rides, or other non-running activities, runners can extend the life of their main running shoes. Wearing different shoes can also strengthen ankle and calf muscles, while also reducing foot pain from the overuse of a single pair of sneakers. The cushioning that trainers provide can boost a workout tremendously, alleviate swelling and pain after long runs, and boost any cross training session after a long run, spirited jog, sprint session, or vigorous race.