If you want to lose weight, its 80% diet and 20% exercise. You don’t need an elliptical – i would think its a very expensive machine. You are better off buying a pedometer and just walking more. I haven’t got one yet but i’ve heard the garmin is good because you don’t need to change the batteries more than once a year. Many people report how they find they do walk more. You can also try doing more housework, going dancing, enjoying outdoor life a bit more perhaps. All movement is good. Why do something boring like that machine?