Have you ever found yourself struggling to shed off those unwanted inches around your belly? Despite regular exercise and a healthy diet, some stubborn fat just refuses to budge. If you're tired of crunches and sit-ups, it's time to switch up your routine! Elliptical machines are an excellent way to target that troublesome area and get the results you've been looking for. Here's how…
There are a few ways to target belly fat on an elliptical machine, but the most effective way is to work out at a moderate intensity and limit your time on the machine to 20 minutes. First, find a comfortable position on the elliptical and adjust the seat height so that your heels are barely off the ground. When you start working out, maintain a consistent speed and incline throughout your entire session.
To reduce your risk of injury, focus your abdominal workout on muscles other than your abs. Try contracting your abdominal muscles while also squeezing your lower back, oblique muscle group, and glutes. Be sure to keep good form by keeping both arms extended past your head and straight throughout the entire workout. Finally, drink plenty of water while working out to help preserve energy and avoid dehydration.
Know more: Elliptical Works: How To Use An Elliptical Machine
There are many elliptical workouts that can be tailored to target belly fat. The following three workouts are all good examples:
1) The Couch to 5k Workout: This elliptical workout targets your lower body and can be completed in under 20 minutes. You will start by lying on the couch with your feet flat on the ground, then use your upper body to slowly raise yourself into a sitting position. From here, you will walk for two minutes before repeating the cycle two more times.
2) The Slim and Tone Workout: This elliptical workout is designed to tone your entire body and burn calories quickly. You will begin by standing in the center of the machine with your feet hip-width apart, then lift your arms shoulder-width apart as you lean back slightly. Afterward, pedal at a moderate pace for 30 seconds before slowly returning to the starting position. Repeat eight times for a total of four minutes of cardio activity.
3) The T25 Fat Burner Elliptic Workout: This elliptical workout is designed to help you lose weight quickly. You will begin by pedaling at a moderate pace, then gradually increase the speed as you reach 25 percent of your max heart rate. After reaching this intensity, pedal at 50 percent of your max heart rate for one minute before decreasing the speed back down to medium and repeating the cycle six more times.
If you're looking to burn belly fat, consider using an elliptical machine. Elliptical trainers work your entire body and are a great way to tone and strengthen muscles without adding additional weight. "An elliptical is like a cross between a treadmill and a stationary bike," says Jillian Michaels, celebrity trainer and author of The Big Latte Diet. "You can use it for aerobic conditioning or to help target specific areas, such as your tummy."
Ellipticals work best if you do them at least three times per week. Start by doing five minutes on the easy setting and then increase the time as you become more comfortable. "The key is not to go too hard at the beginning," Michaels says. "Gradually increase your intensity over time so that you don't overuse your muscles." And remember: Don't forget about your abs! Ellipticals are great for toning all around your torso, including your stomach area.
See more: Bike Versus Elliptical: Which One is Better For You?
Some other exercises that help target belly fat on an elliptical are:
1. Squats: squats are a great exercise to target all over your body, and they work your core as well.
2. Lunges: lunges will also help tone your lower body and provide a cardio workout.
3. Crunches: crunches are another great exercise to target abdominal muscles and burn calories.
Belly fat is one of the most stubborn areas to lose, but there are ways to help target it on an elliptical. By incorporating cardio and weight training into your routine, you can help reduce belly fat while toning your entire body. Combine these two workouts with a sensible diet and you will be on your way to reaching your fitness goals!