“Exercise is a healthy and beneficial treatment for treating
fibromyalgia. Using an elliptical machine for exercise helps improve muscle
tone, increase blood flow to muscles and decreases pain.” Livestrong.com
An elliptical machine simulates running, gets your heart
rate up, but eliminates the pounding pavement making it a low impact exercise. I must admit I haven’t really liked the
elliptical much. We got one a few years
ago for our little home gym and I would use it occasionally. I much prefer running outside. I found I got bored quickly inside and didn’t
get as much of a workout. For me, there is just NOTHING like running. However, lately
I have come to enjoy it more and see the practicality of it, both for convenience
and my health. I’ve not been very good
about getting out to run the past couple of weeks. I wanted to keep up with exercise though so
if I missed a run, I would hop on the elliptical for 20 minutes. It keeps me moving, keeps my endurance
up, and doesn't cause any joint damage! While it may not be my favorite thing to
do, it is a great tool to have to help me stay active. So if weather is a problem, or kid’s
schedules, I can still get a workout in.
If you don’t have one at home, think about getting one! The prices range from under $100 to thousands
of dollars depending on durability, features, and brand. We picked ours up at Walmart for under $400. It’s a Gold’s Gym elliptical. Nice because it has a training program built
in, cup holder & fan!
This is the
newer version of what I have: walmart.com
You can often find them used in your area as well.
Here is a review of the best ellipticals for 2012 in
different price ranges: bestellipticalmachines
Here is a good article about starting an exercise routine
with fibro from Arthritis Today: fibromyalgia-exercise
If you have a gym membership, Hop on the elliptical next
time you are there and see how you like it!
