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Step-machine addiction

Diana123 Posts: 135 Joined: 2003/02/03	2003/02/03, 10:28 AM Hello all! I read everywhere that it is necessary to vary the type of cardio workouts. However, due to my knee problem, I cannot run (which is one of the best fat burning exercises) so I usually workout on the step-machine. I tried other things such as biking and the ellipse machine, but nothing seems to get me to sweat and give me such a good workout as much the step-machine, so I usually do only that, and this has been for almost two years now. Am I still burning enough calories and fat, or has my body gotten totally used to it and I'm wasting my time??
dpking44 Posts: 470 Joined: 2002/08/07	2003/02/03, 10:33 AM I thought the ellipse machine simulates running without the hard pounding? I'm surprised that doesn't do it for you Diana, especially since that would be better on your knees. I've never really used an ellipse machine but, that's what I heard.
Diana123 Posts: 135 Joined: 2003/02/03	2003/02/03, 10:47 AM Yes, the ellipse machine does stimulate running and it isn't hard on the knees either, but it really isn't the same as running; it does't get the heart pumping as much.I barely break a sweat on it; usually use it as a warm up before workouts. Thanks though! Give it a try and you will see.
Diana123 Posts: 135 Joined: 2003/02/03	2003/02/03, 10:48 AM Yes, the ellipse machine does stimulate running and it isn't hard on the knees either, but it really isn't the same as running; it does't get the heart pumping as much.I barely break a sweat on it; usually use it as a warm up before workouts. Thanks though! Give it a try and you will see.
dpking44 Posts: 470 Joined: 2002/08/07	2003/02/03, 10:51 AM Ok, was just wondering. Actually, I'm fortunate enough to have good knees so I run on a regular basis. If you take care of that knee, it will eventually heal. I'm assuming you don't have any permanent damage. Good luck.
bb1fit Posts: 11,105 Joined: 2001/06/30	2003/02/03, 02:37 PM The idea behind cardio is to establish a calorie deficit. So, as long as you are achieving this, it is really a bit overrated to try too much to change things. An easy way if you need to is to change things up on the cardio you are doing. Such as, one time do a HIIT type cardio on the stepper, the next time do a standard burn. Rotate these periodically. This in itself is a good enough change to keep the gains/losses coming. -------------- Failing to plan is like planning to fail!
effalunt Posts: 333 Joined: 2002/10/17	2003/02/03, 02:54 PM I'm a elliptical machine fan. My only problem is that I have to periodically up the resistance, and eventually I'm going to run out of room to move up. I'm usually really sweaty after my 30 minutes is up. I guess it's really just what your body responds to, and since my hip is bad, I can't run on the treadmill. -------------- Think you can or think you can't; either way you're right--Goethe
bb1fit Posts: 11,105 Joined: 2001/06/30	2003/02/03, 02:59 PM Try a HIIT version every now and then on the elliptical efflunt. This will make a huge difference in your caloric burn and metabolism for the entire day. -------------- Failing to plan is like planning to fail!