skip to Main Content
cross-trainers and ProForm elliptical machines sydney

Best HIIT Workouts to Perform on Elliptical Trainer

Looking to burn calories efficiently and boost your cardiovascular fitness? Look no further than high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the elliptical trainers. With these workouts, you can experience a full-body workout that targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously while enjoying the benefits of low-impact exercise. But what makes HIIT on the elliptical so effective? How does this gym equipment help you achieve intense results without putting excessive strain on your joints? Get ready to take your fitness journey to new heights with these invigorating routines.

How to Do an Elliptical HIIT Workout

To get the most out of your elliptical HIIT workout, follow these simple steps:

Warm Up

Before you start your intense workout, it’s important to warm up for about 5 minutes at a moderate pace. This will help prepare your muscles and joints for the upcoming high-intensity intervals.

Alternate Between Intense Bursts and Active Recovery

The key to an effective elliptical HIIT workout is alternating between short bursts of maximum effort and periods of active recovery. During the intense bursts, push yourself to go as fast and as hard as you can. Then, during the active recovery periods, slow down the pace and catch your breath.

Adjust Resistance Level and Incline

To challenge yourself even more during each interval, adjust the resistance level and incline on the elliptical trainer. Increasing the resistance will make it harder for you to pedal while adjusting the incline will simulate going uphill. These adjustments will help you build strength and endurance over time.

Gradually Increase Duration and Intensity

As you progress in your training, gradually increase both the duration and intensity of your intervals. Start with shorter bursts of maximum effort followed by longer recovery periods. Then, as you become more comfortable, increase the length of your intense bursts and decrease the duration of your recovery periods. This progressive overload will keep challenging your body and ensure continued improvement.

Remember to listen to your body throughout the workout. If something feels too challenging or causes pain or discomfort, adjust accordingly or consult a fitness professional for guidance.

Two Effective Elliptical HIIT Workouts to Try

Tabata-style workout

For a quick and intense cross trainer session, try the Tabata-style workout. This workout involves giving it your all for 20 seconds, followed by a 10-second rest period. Repeat this cycle for a total of 4 minutes. The key here is to push yourself to the limit during those 20 seconds of work.

Pros:

  • High-intensity intervals help burn more calories in less time.

  • The short duration of each interval makes it easier to stay motivated and maintain intensity.

  • Can be easily customized to fit your fitness level by adjusting the resistance or speed.

Cons:

  • Requires a certain level of cardiovascular fitness and endurance.

  • May not be suitable for beginners or individuals with certain health conditions.

  • Can be physically demanding and may lead to muscle soreness if not performed correctly.

Pyramid workout

Another effective HIIT option on the elliptical is the pyramid workout. With this method, you gradually increase the duration of each interval before decreasing back down. For example, start with 30 seconds of high-intensity effort, followed by 30 seconds of rest. Then move on to 45 seconds of work and rest, followed by 60 seconds, and so on.

Pros:

  • Allows for progressive overload by challenging your body with longer intervals over time.

  • Provides variety and prevents boredom by changing the duration of each interval.

  • Helps improve both cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength.

Cons:

  • Requires careful monitoring of your exertion levels to avoid overexertion or injury.

  • Longer intervals can be mentally challenging as fatigue sets in.

  • May require some trial and error to find the right durations that suit your fitness level.

Read Also: What is the difference between a Cross trainer and an Elliptical trainer?

Quick HIIT: A 20-Minute Elliptical Routine

Looking for a time-efficient workout that will get your heart pumping and burn calories? Look no further than this intense 20-minute elliptical HIIT routine. Incorporating short but challenging intervals throughout the entire duration of the workout, you’ll be able to maximize your cardio session in no time.

Get Your Heart Racing

The key to an effective HIIT workout is to push yourself during those high-intensity intervals. Start by warming up for a few minutes at a moderate pace before diving into the main routine. During each interval, increase the resistance or speed on the elliptical to really challenge yourself and elevate your heart rate.

Engage Your Core Muscles

While performing this routine, it’s important to maintain proper form and focus on engaging your core muscles. Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and core tight throughout each interval. This will not only help improve your balance and stability but also enhance the effectiveness of the workout.

Finish Strong with a Cooldown

As you near the end of the 20-minute routine, it’s crucial to give yourself a proper cooldown period. Gradually lower the intensity and pace of your elliptical workout to allow your heart rate to gradually return to normal. Take some time to stretch out any tight muscles and reflect on what an awesome job you did!

So, if you’re looking for a quick yet effective way to get in shape and boost your cardiovascular fitness, give this 20-minute elliptical HIIT routine a try. Remember, it’s all about pushing yourself during those intense intervals while maintaining proper form and finishing strong with a cooldown period.

Great Elliptical HIIT Workouts for Results

If you’re looking to get the most out of your elliptical trainer and burn some serious calories, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is the way to go. Here are some tips and tricks to help you create effective elliptical HIIT workouts that will deliver results.

Elliptical cross trainer machine

Experiment with Different Intervals and Intensities

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s important to experiment with different interval lengths and intensities to find what works best for you. Start by alternating between periods of high-intensity effort and active recovery. For example, sprint at maximum speed for 30 seconds, then slow down to a moderate pace for 60 seconds before repeating the cycle. Adjust the duration and intensity based on your fitness level and goals.

Incorporate Resistance Training

To take your elliptical HIIT workouts up a notch, consider incorporating resistance training into your routine. This can be done by using hand weights or resistance bands while working out on the elliptical. The added resistance will engage more muscles in your upper body, increasing the overall calorie burn and toning effects of your workout.

Vary Your Workouts Regularly

To keep challenging your body and prevent plateauing, it’s essential to vary your elliptical HIIT workouts regularly. Mix up the duration, intensity, and intervals in each session. You can also try different programs or pre-set workouts on your elliptical machine if available. By constantly changing things up, you’ll keep your body guessing and continue seeing progress over time.

Track Your Progress

Tracking your progress is crucial. Keep a record of the duration, intensity levels, intervals used, and how you felt during each session. Gradually increase the difficulty as you become fitter and stronger. This could mean increasing the duration of high-intensity intervals, raising the resistance level, or reducing the rest periods.

By following these tips and incorporating them into your elliptical HIIT workouts, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your fitness goals. Remember to listen to your body, stay consistent, and have fun while pushing yourself to new limits.

Considerations and Limitations of Elliptical HIIT Workouts

Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Before diving into your elliptical HIIT workouts, it’s essential to consult with a professional. They can assess your overall health and determine if high-intensity interval training is suitable for you. This step is crucial, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions that may affect your ability to engage in intense workouts. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance and ensure that you’re on the right track towards achieving your fitness goals safely.

Be mindful of your body’s limitations and adjust the intensity or duration of intervals accordingly.

While HIIT workouts can be highly effective, it’s important to listen to your body and respect its limits. Pushing yourself too hard without allowing adequate recovery periods can lead to overtraining or injury. Pay attention to how your body responds during each workout session. If you feel excessively fatigued or experience pain, consider adjusting the intensity or duration of intervals. Remember, progress takes time, and it’s better to make steady gains than risk setbacks due to overexertion.

Listen to your body and take rest days when needed to prevent overtraining or injury.

Rest days are just as important as workout days. Giving your muscles time to recover allows them to repair and grow stronger. Overtraining can lead to diminished performance, increased risk of injury, and even burnout. So don’t neglect those rest days! Embrace them as an integral part of your fitness journey.

Remember that nutrition plays a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of your elliptical HIIT workouts.

To get the most out of your elliptical HIIT workouts, it’s important not only to focus on exercise but also on proper nutrition. Fueling your body with nutrient-dense foods, such as lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can provide the energy needed for intense workouts. Staying hydrated throughout your training sessions is essential for optimal performance and recovery.

Incorporating these considerations into your elliptical HIIT workouts can help you make the most of this effective training method while ensuring your safety and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, listen to your body’s cues, take rest days when needed, and fuel yourself with nutritious foods. Now that you’re equipped with these tips, get ready to crush those elliptical HIIT workouts!

Maximize Your Fitness with Elliptical HIIT Training

Congratulations on completing the sections above! You now have a solid understanding of how to perform effective HIIT workouts on an elliptical trainer. By incorporating these workouts into your fitness routine, you can take your fitness to the next level and achieve amazing results.

To make the most out of your elliptical HIIT training, remember to push yourself during the high-intensity intervals. Imagine you are racing against time, giving it your all as if you were sprinting towards the finish line. During the recovery periods, allow yourself to catch your breath and prepare for the next burst of energy. This back-and-forth rhythm will challenge your body and keep you engaged throughout the workout.

Now that you have learned how to do an elliptical HIIT workout and tried out some effective routines, it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Shop the best quality Elliptical Trainers today at Dynamo Fitness in Australia and get fast and safe delivery Australia-wide of your gym equipment. Have any questions? Contact us now for more information.

FAQs

Can I perform HIIT workouts on any type of elliptical trainer?

Yes, you can perform HIIT workouts on most types of elliptical trainers. However, it is essential to ensure that your machine has adjustable resistance levels so that you can increase or decrease intensity as needed during different phases of the workout.

How often should I incorporate elliptical HIIT training into my fitness routine?

The frequency of your elliptical HIIT workouts depends on your fitness goals and current level of conditioning. For beginners, starting with two sessions per week is a good idea. As you become more comfortable and fit, gradually increase the frequency up to four or five times per week.

Are there any safety precautions I should take before starting an elliptical HIIT workout?

Before beginning any new exercise program, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or certified trainer. They can assess your fitness level, provide guidance on proper form and technique, and help you determine if HIIT workouts are suitable for you.

Can elliptical HIIT workouts help with weight loss?

Yes, elliptical HIIT workouts can be highly effective for weight loss. The combination of high-intensity intervals and the engagement of multiple muscle groups during elliptical training can boost your metabolism and calorie burn, helping you shed excess pounds.

How long should an elliptical HIIT workout last?

The duration of an elliptical HIIT workout can vary depending on your fitness level and goals. A typical session may last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down periods. Remember that intensity is more important than the duration of a HIIT workout, so focus on pushing yourself during the high-intensity intervals rather than worrying about the length of the overall session.