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Elliptical training
We have a very good quality elliptical machine, coupled with our neverending winters, being a SAHM, and DH never being around, that is my #1 form of exercise. I alternate it with 30DS, situps, etc.
I more or less just started working out in the last 6 months. We're active.. lots of walking, chasing the kids around, but as far as a routine, I try to do the elliptical when I can, right now probably 20-30 minutes a day or every other day.
I guess my question is, any suggestions? Can I use Couch-5k type training but apply it to my time on the elliptical? Also, I'm never sore after using the elliptical (even though I vary the routine, do "hills" etc) -- is that an indicator that I'm not doing enough time or hard enough of a resistance? I am definitely a lot stronger in my legs, and my legs feel very tired afterward and even the next day or next workout. And lastly.. how does this translate to any kind of road running? I used to run all the time (high school/college), but that's a good 10 years ago not to mention my knees are not as great especially after years of some strenuous hiking.
This is a little bit of a scattered post but I appreciate any input, and I'm kind of new to elliptical training, so thanks for bearing with me 
Re: Elliptical training
It sounds like, for the elliptical, you might be beyond Couch to 5K already. But if it seems appealing to you and you are looking for a place to start, I don't see why you couldn't apply the program to time on the elliptical. You could mimic the run-walk intervals by going faster for the run parts and slowing down for the walk parts.
Does your elliptical machine measure heart rate or do you have a standalone heart rate monitor? I would judge by HR more than soreness as to whether you're working hard enough or with enough resistance. Are you breaking a sweat and increasing your breathing rate? That's another way to get a sense about whether you are working hard enough. I wonder if the low-impact nature of the elliptical has something to do with it too. I find it difficult to gauge my effort level on ellipticals because the machines vary so much (resistance, inclines, etc) and the machine does some of the work for you.
How does it translate to road running? Don't really know. It's a different type of exercise and it isn't running, so it wouldn't directly translate. But if you're working at an appropriate effort level, the elliptical wouldn't hurt either.
Running on the Rhode
I hate you very much
If you are looking to workout harder, try HIIT (high intensity interval training). A quick Google search for elliptical intervals provided hundreds of links like;
http://exercise.about.com/library/blellipticalinterval.htm
http://www.fitsugar.com/Interval-Workout-Elliptical-Decreasing-Recovery-Periods-7645470
http://www.fitsugar.com/Cardio-Workout-Elliptical-Intervals-6926664
Southeastern Cycling
My Nest Bio and Cycling Advice