Be Sure To Keep Your Elliptical In Top Shape
Common Sense Techniques Make a Big Difference

Maintaining your elliptical trainer will help to ensure that you enjoy many years of cardiovascular benefits. Relatively simple things are sometimes overlooked. For example, make sure your elliptical unit is level at all times. These can be quite heavy, but nevertheless are subject to shifting during excessive use or simply when bumped accidentally.

Be sure to check periodically that all the hardware stays secure. Over time, it's common for even the best of elliptical trainers to develop loose handrails, console mountings and roller guards. It's simple to tighten everything up by using torque wrenches that be found at most hardware stores.

When you wipe down the frame just use a diluted mild detergent with water. It's best not to use paper towels or any cleaner with ammonia or acid in the compound. Use a water damped cloth to clean the belts and make sure they are completely dry before using the machine.

Dust debris can eventually make its way between the belt and the deck of your unit. If you keep the elliptical close to an open window or strong air conditioning unit, the chance of dust accumulation is pretty high, so be sure to use your vacumn cleaner periodically to keep everything dust free.

More than likely, you will not be using your trainer unless you are properly dressed with clean shoes. But, sometimes guests or family kids may take a thrill ride without the proper dress, so be aware of any residue from their shoes that may cause a debris problem.

Depending on where you buy your elliptical trainer you may have to install the unit yourself. This generally gives you the opportunity to make sure everything is put together securely. However, if you have someone put everything together for you be sure to double check the fittings and belt drives to ensure that nothing was left to chance.

Many manufacturers provide a lifetime warranty for parts, but a very limited period for service. Even so, the warranty might not be transferable if you buy your machine second hand. All the more reason for you to make sure that you give your trainer close scrutiny for periodic maintenance.

by Dean Beddoe - February 15, 2011

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