The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week for a healthy lifestyle. Many people are too busy to go to the gym or go for a run. Bringing an exercise machine home is a good option. You can train at home whenever you want.
The home elliptical is one of the best pieces of equipment for home training. By targeting the upper and lower body, you can work out your whole body – you can get an affordable elliptical machine. If you live in a small flat, you can get a collapsible elliptical. It can be easily folded and stored after exercise.
If you are looking for a cross-trainer imitation, a hybrid elliptical is a good choice. These two-in-one machines offer both an elliptical and a recumbent bike, saving space and money in your home gym.
Elliptical trainers require regular maintenance to ensure long service life. They require regular cleaning, inspection, and maintenance. One of the most important parts of maintenance is lubrication. Proper lubrication reduces wear and increases the life and function of the machine. It also reduces the need for expensive repairs.
The problem with elliptical trainers is that the lubrication points are not as obvious as on a treadmill. In the following, the lubrication of different types of elliptical machines will be elucidated – what should and should not be lubricated, and the types of lubricant used.
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Two types of elliptical systems with regard to lubrication
As far as lubrication is concerned, the different types of elliptical systems fall into two categories. The first type is the ramp and wheel elliptical. An elliptical ramp and wheel system means that the wheel rolls back and forth on a steel or aluminum ramp; the second type of elliptical is one without a ramp and wheel system.
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Lubricants for ramp and wheeled ellipticals
The lubrication of this type of elliptical is very simple. They should be lubricated with liquid silicone every 4-6 months. However, before applying the lubricant, it is important to remove any dirt or dust that has built up in the wheel channels of the lamp.
This dust will pierce the wheels over time and cause them to become ragged. Do not use WD-40 or other caustics to lubricate the boom and wheels. These will damage the boom as well as cause rapid wheel failure. Always use recommended lubricants.
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Lubricating ellipticals without ramp and wheel systems
The lubrication of ellipticals without ramp and wheel systems is more complex. It is more difficult to determine where to lubricate. Some machines may have wheels that run on steel or aluminum ramps. These should be coated with liquid silicone. All these ellipticals use oil-impregnated bushings.
These rings do not need to be lubricated. However, after some use, some are prone to squeaking. This can easily be remedied with lithium grease. The rotating points of these ellipticals are equipped with sealed bearings.
These bearings do not need to be lubricated. Do not try to lubricate it until you have broken the bearing seal. This will break them. Some inexpensive ellipticals are equipped with unsealed bearings. Lubrication will slightly extend their life.
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Final thoughts.
Many elliptical trainers use poly-V or A-shaped belts. These belts wear and break over time. These belts wear and crack over time. Applying a belt treatment will extend the life of the belt and prevent it from drying out and squeaking. It can be purchased from hardware shops. More effective in extending the life of the elliptical than lubrication.
Note: Always refer to the product manual and use the recommended lubricant before carrying out maintenance.
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Hi, I am Matt Storace and I am a former personal trainer and founder of Beast Biceps. We had to find ways to train at home. When I started looking for the equipment I needed, I quickly realized that there were no good resources online. So I created Beast Biceps. It is a treasure trove of information developed from my experience and research. Read More Here
