The Elliptical Athlete

You may think that elliptical workouts are only ideal for cardio. But athletes know that using an elliptical machine can also sculpt your body into a fit, chiseled thing of beauty.

For Dancers’ Arms

When you raise the resistance, the handles become harder to move. Choose a challenging level, and zone in on your upper body. Push the handles to engage the triceps and chest; pull the handles to work the biceps and upper back. Swap pushing and pulling for five-minute intervals each. Your arms should feel like noodles afterward.

For Runners’ Legs

This one’s all about speed. Set your incline and resistance to simulate a fast, flat course. The NordicTrack E9.0 will even let you stride downhill, which really burns up your thighs! Sprint for one minute, and then pedal slowly for 30 seconds to recover. Repeat the sprint interval up to 10 times.

For Gymnasts’ Tush

What body part helps gymnasts generate speed, catapult into the air, and stick landings? A strong derriere! To improve your bottom line, set your elliptical on killer hill-climbing mode, and hoof it for two-minute intervals. Recover for one minute, and then repeat the climb again. Try to complete five intervals. Be prepared to sit on ice packs afterward.