How well would training on an elliptical help with actually running?

PFC Samuel B. — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 22:41:26 -0400

I’ve been using an elliptical for some time now, just doing about 1-2 miles at a time for cardio and running a pace of about 5:40 per mile. I was wondering how well that would translate to actually running 1 mile outdoors or 2 miles for the APFT. Any other fitness/training advice would be appreciated!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2018 11:18 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 23:18:13 -0400

Improving your run generally consists of two parts: increasing your aerobic capacity and conditioning your muscles to running. If you have a chance to run, do things like sets of sprints or 30-60s. If you feel a need to workout indoors, I highly recommend using a rowing machine. It will provide an aerobic workout as well as condition leg and core muscles.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2018 11:19 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 23:19:03 -0400

I think they can be used as an effective rehab tool if you're coming back from injury or simply trying to give your legs a break from the impact of running, but I wouldn't use it as a replacement for running.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 12:34 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 00:34:02 -0400

In my humble opinion, as long as you are doing cardio and pushing yourself, then that helps. I HATE FRIGGIN RUNNING, however, I do it because it keeps me somewhat thin and is good for the heart. And I simply refuse to be a fatty. I've had times where I've done nothing but used a treadmill for a couple of months a couple of times per week and improved my run time on the APFT. Every person's body is different and my upper body strength is what gets me the most points on the APFT, so I don't focus so much on my cardio training for the points and still achieve well over a 250 easily, and I'm fine with that. Doing interval training on a treadmill for a couple of miles is sometimes all I need to improve my run time. I mainly run outside on beautiful sunny days, only. I say don't over think it, just run, brother. Then run some more, either inside or outside.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 9:52 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 09:52:29 -0400

Elliptical is a good low-impact exercise for recovery days, but as stated above, it is no replacement for actual running.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2018 1:03 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 13:03:02 -0400

It's certainly beneficial-You're getting your heart rate up, using the primary groups and training to a pace. However, my personal preference (back when I did a LOT of running) was to blend an even mix of track, trail and elliptical. "Cross Country" running builds a variety of other strengths; I used to run a route that took me over roads, across fields, sand, and even included a short swim. While forward deployed, options were limited, but we created a "route" that included obstacles and other challenges. Speed is important, but so is endurance and the ability to adapt to "unexpected" terrain changes.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Mar 30 at 2018 1:07 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 13:07:35 -0400

A good machine in its own right, but not as a substitute for running if that's your hope.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Mar 30 at 2018 1:43 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 13:43:25 -0400

PV2 Baytan, it doesn't, it just helps with keeping the "love handles" down. To lower your running time, just keep running. Looking at your picture, you probably have no problem with that. lol

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Mar 30 at 2018 4:08 PM

SSgt Dan Montague — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 16:08:24 -0400

Not as well as running. You are not building the same muscle endurance on the elliptical as you would running.