If you are lucky enough to own an elliptical trainer then you know the benefits it brings you in both fitness and hopefully enjoyment. I’m assuming that your elliptical trainer workouts are something you look forward to.

However, with elliptical trainer ownership there comes the responsibility of using it in a safe manner and keeping up with its maintenance. This article will take a look at what’s involved with proper elliptical trainer maintenance.

Below is a list of the key points of elliptical trainer maintenance:

1. Start from a solid foundation –- a reliable elliptical trainer starts from when you first assemble it. Regardless whether you do the job yourself or you contract to have the assembly done for you, make sure that the job gets done right.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter and make sure that everything fits together properly and that there is no left over parts or hardware. Sometimes components may not fit properly. If it appears that there is a problem with the parts, then contact the manufacturer for replacement parts. Do not proceed until everything fits together as it should and your elliptical functions without problems.

2. Grease is your friend –- most elliptical trainers come supplied with a small tube of grease and instructions where to apply it. Don’t be stingy with the grease! Apply it liberally. If you run out then don’t be afraid to make a trip to your local hardware store to pick up more.

Grease will break down over time so it may become necessary to reapply it. Sometimes you can get by with spraying some WD40 to squeaky joints on the arm handles and foot rails, but it may be necessary to unbolt these parts and reapply some grease to the attachment bolts.

3. A little protection goes a long way –- spend the little extra to get a rubber floor mat to place under your elliptical trainer. This will both protect the flooring or carpet underneath the elliptical as well as keep dust from the floor from getting into the drive mechanism of your elliptical trainer.

Elliptical trainer covers are about as rare as hen’s teeth, but they are great for keeping moisture and dust off your elliptical. They also deter small children from playing on the elliptical trainer and possibly injuring themselves.

A workable substitute for an elliptical trainer cover is an outdoor grill cover. Just make sure that its dimensions will adequately cover your elliptical trainer.

4. Be alert to signs of trouble -- If you notice strange noises like squeaks and groans from your elliptical trainer or it feels wobbly or otherwise unstable, then investigate immediately.

5. Know when to DIY and when to call in the pros –- many problems that may arise with your elliptical trainer you can probably remedy yourself. Nuts and screws should be periodically checked and tightened if necessary. You can also apply lubrication to squeaky joints. You can also replace worn or snapped bolts yourself. Just be sure to order them from the manufacturer. This is especially true if your elliptical trainer is still under warranty. Always check with the manufacturer before doing any repairs yourself in order to protect your warranty.

Some repairs will require a factory-authorized technician. The manufacturer’s customer support department will make this determination when you call for help.

As you can see, the maintenance for an elliptical trainer is somewhere between owning a car and a toaster. It doesn’t require oil changes every 3000 miles and periodic tire rotation, but it needs a little more attention than emptying out the breadcrumbs once a year.

The single most important thing you can do as an elliptical trainer owner is make certain that you educate yourself before making a purchase. Then armed with this knowledge, purchase a high-quality, well-designed elliptical trainer that will provide you with many years of trouble-free use