Consider Your Goals

• The optimal duration for fat burning and weight loss is 45 minutes elliptical exercise, most days a week. The optimal duration for cardiovascular conditioning is 30 minutes. The Federal Government recommends a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity, with most of that time devoted to aerobic exercise, at least three days a week.
  
  

Look at the Whole Picture

• There is more to getting results than the duration and frequency of exercise. You also have to consider the intensity. Thirty minutes, three days a week, at level 10 will give you better results than 45 minutes at level 2. Also, if you do the same exercise every day, your body will adapt and you will have to work harder, and longer, to get the same results.
  
  

Bottom Line

• For cardiovascular health, aim for a minimum of 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer, at least three days a week. For weight loss, aim for a minimum of 45 minutes. For optimal results, aim for at least five days, periodically increase the intensity and incorporate other aerobic exercises.