How to Start Planet Fitness Elliptical: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Are you ready to take your fitness journey to the next level? The elliptical trainer is a fantastic cardio machine that offers a low-impact, full-body workout. But if you’re new to the gym, the thought of approaching a giant elliptical machine might seem daunting. Don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to start planet fitness elliptical, from setting up the machine to mastering the basics and maximizing your results.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Elliptical

The first step to conquering the elliptical is understanding its basics. Planet Fitness ellipticals are user-friendly and come with various features that can enhance your workout experience.

• Strides per Minute (SPM): This setting controls the speed of the elliptical. A higher SPM will result in a more intense workout.
• Resistance: You can adjust the resistance to challenge your muscles and increase the intensity.
• Incline: Some ellipticals offer an incline feature, allowing you to target different muscle groups and increase the calorie burn.
• Console: Planet Fitness ellipticals typically have consoles that display your workout data, including time, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and more.

2. Proper Form is Key

Maintaining proper form on the elliptical is crucial for a safe and effective workout. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Step onto the machine: Place your feet on the pedals, ensuring they are comfortably positioned.
2. Hold the handlebars: Grip the handlebars for balance and support. You can choose between stationary or moving handlebars, depending on your preference.
3. Start with a low resistance and SPM: Begin with a comfortable pace and gradually increase the resistance and SPM as you get used to the machine.
4. Maintain a natural stride: Let your legs move naturally, engaging your core to maintain balance and stability.
5. Keep your back straight: Avoid hunching over or leaning forward.
6. Engage your core: Actively engage your abs and back muscles to stabilize your body.
7. Look straight ahead: Avoid looking down at your feet, as this can strain your neck.

3. Warm Up and Cool Down

Just like any other exercise, warming up before and cooling down after your elliptical workout is essential.

Warm-Up:

• Light cardio: Begin with a few minutes of light cardio, such as walking or jogging on the treadmill.
• Dynamic stretching: Perform dynamic stretches, such as arm circles, leg swings, and torso twists, to prepare your muscles for the workout.

Cool-Down:

• Slow down your pace: Gradually decrease the resistance and SPM on the elliptical.
• Static stretching: Perform static stretches, such as holding a hamstring stretch or a quad stretch, to improve flexibility and reduce muscle soreness.

4. Setting Realistic Goals and Progressing Gradually

Starting with realistic goals is key to staying motivated and preventing burnout.

• Start small: Don’t try to do too much too soon. Begin with short sessions of 15-20 minutes and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you get stronger.
• Set attainable goals: Aim for a specific number of minutes per week or a target heart rate zone.
• Track your progress: Monitor your progress by tracking your workout duration, distance, and calories burned. This will help you see how far you’ve come and stay motivated.

5. Vary Your Workouts

To keep your body challenged and prevent boredom, vary your elliptical workouts.

• Interval training: Alternate between high-intensity bursts and low-intensity periods.
• Incline training: Incorporate incline into your workout to target different muscle groups and increase the calorie burn.
• Resistance training: Increase the resistance to challenge your muscles and enhance strength.
• Cross-training: Combine elliptical workouts with other exercises, such as weight training or swimming, for a well-rounded fitness routine.

6. Listen to Your Body

It’s crucial to listen to your body and rest when needed.

• Don’t push yourself too hard: If you experience pain or discomfort, stop and rest.
• Take rest days: Allow your body time to recover between workouts.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts.

7. Embrace the Journey

Starting a new fitness routine can be challenging, but remember to celebrate your progress and enjoy the journey.

• Find a workout buddy: Having a friend to exercise with can help you stay motivated and accountable.
• Reward yourself: Reward yourself for achieving your goals, whether it’s a new workout outfit or a relaxing massage.
• Focus on the positive: Focus on the benefits of exercise, such as improved health, mood, and energy levels.

Your Elliptical Journey Awaits!

Conquering the elliptical at Planet Fitness is a rewarding experience that can lead to a healthier and fitter you. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your fitness goals and enjoying the benefits of this fantastic cardio machine.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. How long should I use the elliptical for each workout?

Start with 15-20 minutes and gradually increase the duration as you get stronger. Aim for 30-45 minutes most days of the week.

2. How often should I use the elliptical?

Aim for 3-5 days per week, with rest days in between.

3. What are the benefits of using the elliptical?

The elliptical offers a low-impact, full-body workout that targets major muscle groups, improves cardiovascular health, burns calories, and enhances overall fitness.

4. Can I use the elliptical if I have knee problems?

The elliptical is a great option for people with knee problems because it’s a low-impact exercise that doesn’t put a lot of stress on the joints.

5. What should I wear when using the elliptical?

Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Athletic shoes are recommended.