How to conquer the machines at the gym

by Martha Edwards (Subscribe to Martha Edwards's posts)
Nov 7th 2006 7:40PM

Categories: Fitness

Walking into a gym for the first time can be intimidating. You're surrounded by a bunch of leotard-clad buff bodies who work the machines and weights like they were born doing it, and you have no choice but to ally yourself with a precarious looking exercise apparatus, pressing start while hoping you don't fall off and embarrass yourself in front of everyone.

If you want to start an exercise regime, but are afraid of this scenario, check out this article, which will help you get started on a treadmill, elliptical trainer, StairMaster, stationary bike or rowing machine.

If you're still wary of going, I suggest booking an introductory session with a personal trainer. Or, just go for it -- Trust me, it gets easier every time.

Source

Comments (2)

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Aaron 11-08-2006 @ 9:35AM

Just a note on ellipticals. I do love them for the programmability and involvement of all major muscle groups. However, they are not all made the same. The big ones are LifeFitness and Precor. I wish I could say that I loved the Precor presets, but they are severely lacking, especially in the cross-training department. Trust me, even though you have to pay more attention to the program, you'll get a much more effective workout (I regularly burn 500 calories according to the machine) on a LifeFitness vs. a Precor (average 300-350 calories per workout). Use your arms. If you'd rather treadmill on a incline, fine. But do NOT hold your body weight up by leaning on the machine. You are totally negating the benefit of walking on an incline.

Off my soapbox.