elliptical vs. walking?

artroyer

i've been exhausted this first trimester, so i haven't been great about working out.  I am finally finding spurts of energy here and there and am trying to get in some slow workouts.

my question is: is it safe to use an elliptical or is it too strenuous?  I've actually been scared to use mine!   I know I can go slow and everything, but it's still intimidating.  I am treating myself like a "beginner" since I haven't kept up a regular workout routine in a while.  I've just been taking some walks here and there...

Any advice?  Thanks!

JKohio

General rule of thumb: if you can talk while exercising, you're good to go, whether elliptical or running or whatever. If you are starting a 'new' routine that you've never done before, definitely check with your doctor first. My doc recommends (for me) keeping my heart rate below 165bpm (for any aerobic activity), but your doc may have other suggestions, since everyone is different. And, listen to your body. If it seems too much, back off for a bit.

MeginUT

I second the rule of listening to your body.  I exercise a lot both pregnant and not-pregnant, but for what it's worth, when I'm pregnant, I prefer the elliptical.  It doesn't make me need to stop and pee as much. 

tasiaceleste

The elliptical is fine, so long as you're not exhausting yourself.  DO NOT worry about heart rate-- it's an individual thing and nothing to stress over.  Stay hydrated, take breaks when you need them, and have fun!

starrysmile18

Elliptical is fine, but it honestly makes me pee alot more- more bouncing I think... anyways, I have been walking, but in the begining it was more elliptical.

NewlyWeds13

IMO an elliptical is the easiest form of cardio.   I can easily get my heart-rate up by walking at a 4.1 on a 5 incline, but it is hard on most elliptical machines to get a good rate going as if I jack the resistance more than 8, I tend to not be strong enough to go as fast as I need to and at lower resistance, I don't get my heart rate up even going pretty fast.

I am normally a runner however, so I am in pretty good cardio shape, but I like to mike it up with walking or elliptical or swimming as well to keep things interesting.

I personally think eihter is fine.  Just play with the settings until you find something that provides the right amount of challenge for your current fitness level.   As someone else mentioned above, as long as you can talk, you are good to go:) you can always check your heartrate as well during the workout on the machine if you want.