Save ~30%* if you qualify to pay with HSA/FSA - Learn More Through Truemed*

How to Burn Maximum Calories on the Elliptical

by Answer is Fitness on February 27, 2026      

Answer is Fitness - How to Burn Maximum Calories on the Elliptical

Tips and Strategies for Effective Cardio at Answer is Fitness in Canton, MA

The elliptical is one of the most versatile and effective machines in any gym. It offers a low-impact, full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and burns calories efficiently. At Answer is Fitness in Canton, MA, many members ask how they can maximize calorie burn during their elliptical workouts. The answer lies in combining proper technique, smart programming, and consistent effort.

Focus on Proper Form

Your posture and technique greatly impact the effectiveness of your elliptical session. Stand tall with shoulders relaxed and core engaged. Avoid leaning heavily on the handles; instead, use them for balance and light upper-body engagement. Push through your heels while maintaining a smooth stride. Proper form ensures your muscles work efficiently, which helps you burn more calories while reducing the risk of injury.

Adjust Resistance and Incline

To challenge your body and increase calorie expenditure, vary the resistance and incline throughout your workout. Higher resistance forces your muscles to work harder, especially your legs and glutes. Adjusting the incline simulates uphill motion, engaging your core and lower body even more. At Answer is Fitness, our ellipticals are equipped with customizable settings, so you can tailor your workout to your fitness level while keeping it challenging.

Incorporate Interval Training

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of the most effective ways to maximize calorie burn on the elliptical. Alternate between periods of high intensity, where you push your pace or resistance, and recovery intervals at a moderate level. For example, pedal as fast as you can for one minute, then slow down for two minutes, and repeat. Interval training elevates your heart rate and increases post-workout calorie burn, also known as the afterburn effect.

Engage Your Upper Body

Many ellipticals have movable handles that allow you to engage your arms while pedaling. By pushing and pulling with your arms, you involve more muscles, increase heart rate, and burn more calories than using your legs alone. Be mindful not to over-rely on your arms — keep the movement controlled to maximize efficiency.

Monitor Your Intensity

Using heart rate monitoring can help ensure you’re working within the optimal range for calorie burn. Aim to stay within 70-85% of your maximum heart rate during high-intensity intervals for the best results. Many of the ellipticals at Answer is Fitness in Canton provide real-time feedback, allowing you to track your intensity and adjust your workout accordingly.

Make It Consistent

Consistency is key to burning calories and improving fitness. Aim for 3–5 elliptical sessions per week, combining both steady-state cardio and interval training. Pair your workouts with proper nutrition and strength training for maximum results. The combination of regular exercise, variety, and proper form ensures continuous progress toward your fitness goals.

Why the Elliptical Is a Smart Choice

The elliptical is low-impact, making it gentle on the joints while still providing an effective cardiovascular and muscular workout. It engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously, including legs, glutes, core, and arms. For members of all fitness levels, it’s an ideal option for building endurance, burning calories, and improving overall health.

Start Maximizing Your Calorie Burn at Answer is Fitness

At Answer is Fitness in Canton, MA, we provide a supportive environment with top-of-the-line ellipticals and knowledgeable staff to guide your workouts. By focusing on proper form, adjusting resistance and incline, incorporating intervals, engaging your upper body, and monitoring intensity, you can burn maximum calories and get the most out of your elliptical sessions.

Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to take your cardio to the next level, the elliptical is a powerful tool to help you reach your goals. Visit Answer is Fitness today and experience the difference a well-designed elliptical workout can make.

< Go Back to Blog