Runners who use the elliptical.....

I've been running for about 10 months now and have hit some major goals of mine. At my best I was running between 6 and 8 miles for my long runs, and had gotten to a point where I was running between 9 and 10 minute miles. Then I got hurt. Nothing specific (that I know - I need to go see an ortho) but I started having persistent knee and hip pain. I took 2.5 weeks off of running and focused on low impact stuff and strength training. I went running again this week, slow and kept myself under 5 miles (for two runs about 3 days apart). I feel good but I think at least until I see an ortho I should take it easy with running, maybe just once or twice a week.

That said, my question: Yesterday I went on the elliptical for 30 minutes before doing a 25 minute strength circuit. I pushed myself on the elliptical, doing some intervals, changing direction and changing up the incline and resistance. I felt I got a decent workout, but I was wondering if anyone uses the elliptical for a 'high' intensity workout and if so what type of routine do you follow? It is DEFINITELY easier on my knees/hips which is great, but I love the high I get from pushing myself and getting to that point of exhaustion when running. I don't think I got my HR much higher than 140 on the elliptical, whereas when running it goes up to about 160+.

Any suggestions for how to maximize my elliptical workout and get that cardio intensity I love?

Message edited 1/7/2013 1:48:16 PM.

Re: Runners who use the ellipticall.....

I could never match intensity of running on the elliptical but I do interval workouts (either speed or resitance or a mix) to change the heart rate. Like 3 minutes high intensity, 1 min low.


I was injured before my first maraton and I did half of my training for it on the elliptical!!! Its great for working through injuries. or when your joints need a break. it could never fully replace running for me though.

Re: Runners who use the elliptical.....

Please go see the Ortho. I had the same pain and turned out I had a fracture in my hip. I stayed off of it for two weeks, felt better for a while and then it started again. That is when I finally went to the doctor. I couldn't work out for almost 6 months.

After three months I was given permission to use the ellpitical. I honestly didn't like it so I gave up. I was just recently cleared to go back to running and am thinking I am going to have to incorporate the ellpitcal into my workouts so that I don't get hurt again. I am hoping since I will be alternating running and that it won't be as bad.

I know that doesn't really answer your question but please go get checked out.

Re: Runners who use the elliptical.....

Re: Runners who use the elliptical.....

Posted by MandJZ

Posted by LiveandLearn

Please go see the Ortho. I had the same pain and turned out I had a fracture in my hip. I stayed off of it for two weeks, felt better for a while and then it started again. That is when I finally went to the doctor. I couldn't work out for almost 6 months.

After three months I was given permission to use the ellpitical. I honestly didn't like it so I gave up. I was just recently cleared to go back to running and am thinking I am going to have to incorporate the ellpitcal into my workouts so that I don't get hurt again. I am hoping since I will be alternating running and that it won't be as bad.

I know that doesn't really answer your question but please go get checked out.

Thank you I already have an appointment. I'm glad you're feeling better and hope it sticks!