Discussion: Elliptical

what sort of settings/resistance do you use when you do these? I think I'm going to have to live my life on those boring machines now so any tips would be great.

Good work getting it done. I know how much you hate that machine... you and Mats are good for each other!

Boris, thanks for info ;-)

Oops, sorry!
I am no expert on the elliptical, as I just started doing it this summer. I have no idea how much specific elliptical machines vary from one another, but I tend to do intervals on level 14-16 and easy pace on level 10-12. The best remedy for boredom so far has been someone to train with, so see if you can bring along another gimp with you. :) In general, I have been surprise by the quality of workout you can get from the elliptical machines. They get my heart rate up a lot higher than spinning bikes do. They have not given my knee any trouble, but sometimes I get small blisters on my feet from the tiny back and forth motions the foot is doing in its cradle. But I think eventually you get calluses and it stops being a problem.
Sorry I don't have any more great tips, but I hope that you can manage to supplement your elliptical workouts with something a little more fun...

great thx. I too haven't had any knee issues but have lacked the drive with that and water running to overcome the boredom.

Can't comment on what resistance is appropriate, but they do vary extensively depending on brand and age (in my gym there are a few machines where the lower settings are harder, presumably because the higher settings get more use and have been worn away more). My knee was very sensitive to the angle of the force going through it, which ellipticals with adjustable footbeds vary, so some were pretty painful while others have been fine. And yes, they're boring compared to pretty much anything outside, but given the choice between that and nothing, I'll take the endorphins.

Ok that is good to know because I have only used them a few times. the first time a few years ago hurt. Tried it again in the winter and it was fine. agree that is a surprisingly good workout.