Elliptical Trainer????!
Question: Do the weight limits really matter when purchasing a Elliptical Trainer???? I see a bunch of trainers that say weight capacity of 250. While I'll eventually get there I do weigh more than that now. Can I get a elliptical with a capacity of 250 even if I weigh more? The ellipticals with weight capacities higher are nearly 800-1000 dollars. I can't afford that expensive but I really need to lose weight. Also since I am overweight should I just get a exercise bike instead? Would that be a better choice for workouts?
Answers: Do the weight limits really matter when purchasing a Elliptical Trainer???? I see a bunch of trainers that say weight capacity of 250. While I'll eventually get there I do weigh more than that now. Can I get a elliptical with a capacity of 250 even if I weigh more? The ellipticals with weight capacities higher are nearly 800-1000 dollars. I can't afford that expensive but I really need to lose weight. Also since I am overweight should I just get a exercise bike instead? Would that be a better choice for workouts?
The weight capacity on any fitness machine really does matter. It's not that it won't hold the weight, but when you go over the weight capacity it makes the motor work harder and then it tends to burn out. You don't want to invest in a fitness machine then have it die on you.
When your looking at exercise bikes you'll need to decide on whether you want to recumbent or stationary bike. The stationary bike is most like a standard bicycle and the recumbent works your muscles more like a paddle boat. Your best choice would be the upright stationary bike as it will give less stress on your lower back. You'll also find that you will be able to workout longer in this position as your lungs and stomach do not get compressed.
Exercise Bikes also have weight capacities so be sure to check. However, since they don't have a motor, the weight capacity is usually higher. It also makes more sense to start off with a bike since ellipticals are for more advanced users.
Although you will burn more calories per half hour workout with an elliptical, you can easily add an additional 10 minutes to your bike workout to get the same calorie burning benefits.
I'm over that limit as well. I would suggest walking and biking and then when you reach the 250 get on the elliptical. It's fairly difficult. If you really want to use this machine is there a gym you can join that has one? Usually the gym has ones with more weight capacity.
i actually wouldn't recommend an elliptical.....i have had several chiropractors tell me that they are the worst type of machine on the market as far as impact on your spine. they are made to the standards of the "average" american and if you are outside of that range you will end up putting more strain on your muscles and joints than it is worth. i would definitely go with the bike.....and bonus: bikes tend to be cheaper. good luck!
Ellipticals are SO HARD if you aren't in really good shape. I can barely do more than a few minutes and I'm not in awful shape. I agree with the others here; get a bike or even a treadmill. Something where you can slowly and steadily lose the weight you want to lose.
Good luck!