Why do I feel like an idiot when I do the elliptical?

Talk to the trainer at the gym. He can watch you; we can’t.

I can’t do the eliptical. My husband thinks I am an idiot. Everyone loves it, and I hate it. I was a ballet dancer, did aerobics, have very good awareness and control over my body, and I cannot do that machine.

You are doing it wrong and you look silly. Just Kidding! I felt the same way when I started doing the elliptical. Actually, at my gym there are at least 3 different elliptical machines that seem to work different areas of your body. I finally found one that I can use and really like. It works my hip/thigh area. The glide on it is different than on the other ones. You might want to look at the other ones and see if they are made differently and might be easier to use.

Elliptical machines… People either love them or hate them.

I love mine. Ellipticals are meant to be low impact, which is probably why you feel like you aren’t doing anything, but your knees will thank you in 20 years. The incline makes a difference as to which parts of the lower body you’re working, and the resistance makes a difference as to how much upper body is worked. (You can always adjust those features, if you have that option.) Your stride has to match the machine for the most natural motion, though. (Perhaps that is why you feel awkward, and like your feet aren’t placed naturally.)

As for your shoulder, have you tried a chiropractor?

We have three different models of ellipticals in the fitness center at work. I usually have to wait to use the one I like. There are only four of them, and they are the most popular. It’s a very natural movement, and I can get my heart rate up quickly. The others are painful and awkward for me.

Well, Mr. Simmons, do you excercize in front of a mirror? It could be those Dolphin shorts from the early 80’s you insist on still wearing.