Thursday, July 10, 2008

My new best friend at the gym.....

Last week my trainer had me try out a new machine to give me some variety because I was becoming bored with just doing the tread mill everyday and I was up for the challenge and I went into it with my eyes wide open. Well as of this week I LOVE THIS MACHINE! (below is a brief description of the machine and what it does for you in your workouts).


The Elliptical machines are a slight variation from the cross country machines made popular in the 1980s. They are available for residential or fitness club use.The machines appear to provide a safe, low-impact, aerobic workout.Elliptical machines deliver various combinations of workouts. Most models simulate walking (forward and backward), stepping, cycling and skiing using an elliptical motion with low or no impact. However, the term "elliptical machine" is broad and general. Not all machines are cross trainers, and not all offer a full-body workout. While manufacturers may claim that ellipticals can replace other machines, fitness experts recommend ellipticals as an addition to your existing program. Elliptical machines are ideal for people who want a low-impact indoor exercise, who want to vary their program, who are getting bored with their usual routine, who want a cardiovascular and full-body workout simultaneously, and who want to burn lots of calories in the shortest amount of time.


I have to say it is now my new best friend! It really is whipping my **s into shape. I am so sore after each workout but also feel like I actually accomplished something at the gym that day. Right now I do 10 mins. on the elliptical and 30 mins. on the tread mill. The goal is just do the elliptical machine but according to my trainer I have to work myself into it. I have to say it really leaves my legs very shaky but well worth it. I have attached a new pic of me working on the elliptical to let you guys know I am still working toward my goal. Donna, my trainer let me know tonight that as of next week my training sessions will be getting more intense (boy I am really scared I am not sure what that means). So I will keep you guys posted on my progress and I will be taking some pics to share with you guys.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

You are doing a great job and you appear so much more confident! Keep up with what you are doing, the people around you do notice/changes are happening!

Anonymous said...

I just want to say that 1 year ago I was 30 lbs overweight, I had high cholesterol, ate terrible foods, smoked like a train, drank too much alcohol and never exercised.

Over a period of 6 months I worked at exchanging unhealthy habits for healthy ones.

At 1 year, I rarely miss a workout, am 30 pounds lighter, have not smoked for 10 months, only eat healthy organic foods, manage stress better and don't drink alcohol. I FEEL GREAT!

I tell you all this because I have read your blog and feel like you are making all the right moves to completely turn yourself into a healthier, happier person. I'm so excited to see that you're working so hard and I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT! You have what it takes and you have the right attitude. Best wishes!

Unknown said...

Mara, the elliptical kicked my A** the first time I used it. I could barely do five minutes :) I'm glad you took the chance and tried it. It's an awesome piece of equipment. Does your gym have an arc trainer? That one will make you go "hell ya!" too. Good job, my friend! Love the photo! Lynn