Q: My fitness center has elliptical trainers in their cardiovascular area. I have heard they provide a good workout but just the look of them scares me away. Do you have some advice for how I could start using them without looking like an idiot? I don't want people to stare at me, and I also don't want to fall off and make a fool of myself. - A.S., New York City, NY

A: Elliptical trainers are a great workout for your entire lower body. If your facility has personal trainers or supervisors in the cardiovascular area, you could ask one of them to help you get started. You could also ask the front desk staff if someone is available to help you on the elliptical trainers - a very reasonable request if you have not used them before. They should be happy to give you the assistance you need to get started right.

But okay, here's my remote advice. Walk up to the elliptical, climb on, and hit the "quick start" button. The machine will walk you through what you need to do to get going. The best part about elliptical trainers (in addition to the great workout you'll get, of course) is that they are really easy to get started on and easy to use. Don't worry about looking like an idiot. You won't. Have a great time experimenting with the various programs, and remember: You can go forward and backward on these machines, so you'll have the opportunity to work opposing muscle groups.

Source: fitlinxx.com