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The question
I have my own elliptical trainer and regularly use it for 30 minutes at a time, but I am bored. Can you suggest some different ways to use it – maybe some interval-style workouts?
The answer
I always tell my clients that consistency is key. That said, I wouldn't want you to lose your motivation due to boredom. Try these variations on the basic workout to spice up your cardio routine and ward off any potential fitness plateau.
Variation 1: Interval pyramid workout
5 minutes at a low intensity to warm up
2 minutes at a hard intensity / 3 minutes moderate
3 minutes at a hard intensity / 2 minutes moderate
4 minutes at a hard intensity / 1 minute moderate
4 minutes at a hard intensity / 1 minute moderate
3 minutes at a hard intensity / 2 minutes moderate
2 minutes at a hard intensity / 3 minutes at an easy intensity to cool down.
Variation 2: Pick-ups
5 minutes easy intensity to warm up
10 minutes of "pick-ups," where you do constant tension but alternate 45 seconds at regular speed with 15 seconds at a fast speed.
10 minutes of "pick-ups" with constant tension but alternating 15 seconds at a regular speed and 45 seconds at a fast speed.
5 minutes at low intensity to cool down.
Trainer's Tip
If you belong to a gym, don't limit yourself to the elliptical machine. Make use of your gym membership and try the pick-ups and/or the interval pyramid workout on other pieces of cardio equipment.
Send certified personal trainer Kathleen Trotter your questions at trainer@globeandmail.com . She will answer select questions, which could appear in The Globe and Mail and/or on The Globe and Mail web site. Your name will not be published if your question is chosen.
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