Best Time To Do Elliptical Workouts for Better Result
The elliptical machine is a popular piece of fitness equipment found in most gyms and homes. It provides cardiovascular exercise that can help improve your overall health and fitness levels. One question that often arises is what is the best time of day to do an elliptical workout?
There isn’t one definitive answer to this question, as the best time for you to exercise depends on your personal preferences and schedule. However, there are a few things to consider when deciding when to do your elliptical workout.
Effectiveness of Working Out On An Elliptical Machine
Working out on an elliptical machine has become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. These machines offer a low-impact yet highly effective way to improve your cardiovascular health and fitness, while also toning your muscles and increasing your overall endurance. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of working out on an elliptical machine and why it can be a very effective form of exercise.
Low-Impact Exercise
One of the key benefits of using an elliptical machine is that it provides a low-impact workout. Unlike running or other high-impact exercises, elliptical machines place less stress on your joints, which can make them a great option if you’re dealing with joint pain or injuries. This makes them an ideal choice for people who want to get a good workout without putting too much stress on their bodies.
Full-Body Workout
Another reason why working out on an elliptical machine can be so effective is that it provides a full-body workout. Unlike some cardio machines that only work your lower body, ellipticals engage both your upper and lower body. When using an elliptical machine, your legs move in an elliptical motion while your arms pull back and forth. This action engages your glutes, quads, hamstrings, calves, biceps, triceps, and shoulders, giving you a full-body workout that can help you tone and strengthen your muscles.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Elliptical machines are also great for improving your cardiovascular health. When you use an elliptical machine, you’re engaging in aerobic exercise, which can help improve your heart health and increase your overall endurance. Because elliptical machines allow you to adjust the resistance level and incline, you can customize your workout to match your fitness level, gradually increasing the intensity over time to challenge yourself and improve your cardiovascular health.
Weight Loss
In addition to improving your cardiovascular health and muscle tone, using an elliptical machine can also be an effective way to lose weight. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), a 150-pound person can burn approximately 500 calories in a 45-minute workout on an elliptical machine. This makes it a great way to burn calories and lose weight, especially if you’re looking for a low-impact option that won’t put too much stress on your body.
Customizable Workouts
Another benefit of using an elliptical machine is that it allows you to customize your workouts. Many machines come equipped with pre-programmed workouts that allow you to vary the intensity and duration of your exercise routine. Some even include workouts that are designed to target specific areas of your body, such as your glutes or thighs. Additionally, many ellipticals allow you to adjust the resistance level and incline, so you can challenge yourself and gradually increase your fitness level over time.
Morning vs. evening workouts
One of the primary factors to consider is whether you prefer morning or evening workouts. Some people find that they have more energy and motivation in the morning, while others prefer to work out in the evening when they’ve finished their workday.
If you’re a morning person, then you may find that getting up early and starting your day with an elliptical workout can help you feel energized and focused throughout the day. On the other hand, if you’re not a morning person, attempting to do an elliptical workout first thing in the morning may be more challenging and less effective.
Benefits of morning workouts
Working out in the morning has several benefits. First, it helps you start the day with a positive mindset and sets the tone for a healthy day. Additionally, morning workouts can help boost metabolism and promote fat burning throughout the day.
Furthermore, studies have shown that morning workouts can help improve sleep quality, lower blood pressure, and decrease stress levels. All of these benefits can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
Benefits of evening workouts
If you prefer working out in the evening, there are also benefits to consider. For example, evening workouts can help release stress and tension accumulated throughout the day. This can help you unwind and relax before bedtime, leading to better sleep quality.
Additionally, evening workouts can have a positive impact on your appetite and food choices. When you exercise in the evening, it can help regulate your hunger hormones and control cravings. This can lead to healthier food choices and weight loss over time.
Factors to consider
When deciding on the best time of day to do an elliptical workout, there are several other factors to keep in mind, such as:
Schedule: Consider when you have the most free time and energy to devote to your workout routine.
Goals: Think about what your fitness goals are and how exercising at different times of the day may impact those goals.
Personal preference: Pay attention to your body’s natural rhythms and when you feel most energized and motivated to exercise.
What To Do Before an Elliptical Workout?
If you’re planning to hit the elliptical machine for your next cardio workout, there are a few things that you should do beforehand to ensure that you get the most out of your session. Here are some tips on what to do before an elliptical workout:
Hydrate: Before any workout, it’s important to make sure that you are properly hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and reduced performance during your workout, so be sure to drink plenty of water in the hours leading up to your elliptical session.
Fuel Up: Your body needs fuel to perform at its best, so it’s important to eat a healthy meal or snack before your workout. Aim for a combination of carbohydrates and protein, such as a banana with peanut butter or Greek yogurt with berries and granola.
Stretch: It’s important to warm up your muscles before jumping onto the elliptical machine. Spend a few minutes stretching your calves, quads, hamstrings, and hip flexors to help prevent injury and improve your range of motion.
Dress Appropriately: Make sure that you wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes for your elliptical workout. Avoid loose or restrictive clothing that could get caught in the machine, and opt for shoes with good arch support to prevent foot and ankle pain.
Set Realistic Goals: Before starting your workout, take a moment to set realistic goals for yourself. Whether you want to increase your speed, endurance, or calorie burn, having a specific goal in mind can help you stay motivated and focused throughout your workout.
Adjust the Machine: Once you’ve gotten onto the elliptical, take a moment to adjust the machine to your body. Adjust the resistance and incline levels to suit your fitness level, and make sure that the pedals are at a comfortable distance from your body.
Warm Up: Start your workout with a 5-10 minute warm-up at a moderate pace. This will help to gradually increase your heart rate and prepare your body for more intense exercise.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your elliptical workout while minimizing the risk of injury or burnout. Remember to listen to your body and take breaks as needed, and always consult with your doctor before starting a new fitness routine.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there isn’t one “best” time of day to do an elliptical workout. It depends on your personal preferences and schedule. Whether you choose to work out in the morning or evening, the most important thing is to make exercise a consistent part of your routine. By doing so, you’ll reap the many benefits that regular physical activity provides, regardless of the time of day.
