My favorite elliptical exercise machine, and why I like it

Over the last 20 years I have had three elliptical exercise machines. The first elliptical was a little on the light side, I don’t remember the brand, and I wore it out. One day without notice it just gave up and collapsed on the floor!  I carefully stepped out of the mess. In those days I was using it for at least a half hour, sometimes an hour. It had served me well.

Then I bought the first of two Schwinn A40s. The first one was ‘used’ but it was just what I wanted. It was the right size, not too big, and it had a range of programs, and many other useful features. The main thing about it was the size -- just right for home use. This Schwinn A40 must have already had more than a few miles on it (or hours) and, sad to say, it too gave up after several years but it did so in a gentle manner, it didn’t just collapse, it sort of quietly slowed down, stopped, and allowed me to step off. I was using it in the beginning for a half hour a day then went to 15 minutes.

I've used my current Schwinn A40 elliptical exercise machine for more than 12 years and it's still doing well for me.

Working out on the elliptical is the first thing I do in my daily exercise routine.

I was pleased with this model so I bought a brand new SchwinnA40 on June 13, 2012 and I still have it. I’ve replaced a couple of minor parts and it squeaks a bit, the latch that holds the battery broke off so I have to tape it shut but I’m still very happy with it. I’ve used it almost every day for over 12 years and it’s still doing well for me. The price was reasonable and that was important.

I keep it on one particular program that gives me two heart rate peaks during my session. If and when I get another one I’d like it to have more program variety on the console, no batteries, and no squeaks.

I keep track of heart rate and speed and write it in a corner of my diary along with the time of day. When I don’t exercise, I write a big “0” in the corner. I don’t think I’ve ever done just the elliptical without the other exercises. Up until today (10/17/24) I have had 18 consecutive days with my full exercise routine. I did not exercise today but I know I will tomorrow.

The elliptical became my replacement for outdoor running many years ago. It’s the first thing I do when I start my exercise program. It provides a low impact full body workout using a wide variety of muscle groups large including arms, legs, shoulders, and back, and is easier on your joints. And it strengthens your heart, increases oxygen intake and lung capacity.

My elliptical workout is the first thing I do when I start my exercise program. It provides a low impact full body workout, is easy on your joints, strengthens your heart, and increases oxygen intake and lung capacity.

It is important for me to warm up and get my body working before I start the rest of my stretching and upper body strength exercises and I find the elliptical exercise machine to be the best way to do this. A great way to start your workout!

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Getting started with an elliptical machine

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

If you'd like to get started working out on an elliptical machine that will enhance your fitness program, there are plenty of different brands and options. Check them out here.

You should consult with your own doctor before you start any exercise routine.