First few times I've used an eliptical...

They're kinda weird. First time I did it, I got tired after about 5 minutes. My calves were fucking killing me. I was on my toes most of the time.

2nd time I did it today for about 40 minutes. It still feels kinda weird. I think I like treadmills better.

Is there any secret to using this thing?

I set it on really high resistance and incline and do it in intervals, I actually think it's easier to interval train on it than a treadmill. A treadmill going fast just feels way too weird to me. I think sprinting is the best way though.

treadmills are definitely better

make sure you aren't bouncing. your upper body should be level. it's really supposed to be working your quads not calves.

GO OUTSIDE.

make sure you aren't bouncing. your upper body should be level. it's really supposed to be working your quads not calves.

Depends on the incline. If it's at level 10, my calves are going to get the shit kicked out of them.

Which is the better calorie burner, treadmill or elliptical?

Outside.

elliptical

Elliptical is far superior.

If you don't believe me then just wait till you are 40 and your knees hurt so bad you wish you could grab a chainsaw and saw them off.

YOU CAN DO IITTTT
http://www.gamerevolution.com/oldsite/bolt_blog_images/psp/tony_little.jpg

i use an arc trainer, its fucking amazing

plus you can turn the resistance way up and get an awesome leg work-out

I used to love running but i fucked my knee up skiing and now running makes me feel like im going to die

I like the elliptical machines. I usually do a 45 minute run alternating between 10 forward, 5 backwards etc. Helps break up the monotony and works different parts of your legs. I can't run for long periods due to massive shin splints, so I do most of my cardio on bike, elliptical or stairs.