My elliptical has 3 strides, 13, 15, and 18. 18 feels like I am cyling and 13 has more of a ski stride. I kinda felt the 18 setting was bulking my legs especially when placed at a high tension... So I put it on 15, because I am not sure what's the most effective...What stride should I be placing it on to get the most benefits from?

Thanks
Lisa

Thanks
Lisa

Lisa,

I am the Ohio Commercial Sales Rep for the #1 fitness equipment manufacturer in the world. Our cross trainer (elliptical) utilizes a 20" stride due to this length being the most biomechanically correct for the widest varriety of users. In your case, I'd recommend the 18" stride.

Also, from my experience, I've been able to elevate my heart rate faster and higher when using a lighter resistance.

Furthermore, I've also been able to make a more consciouse effort to make my glutes contract and fire properly at lower resistance levels.

See if experimenting with a lower resistance level and a higher RPM works for you.