I can't use the elliptical because I can't lock my knees on it. Is this normal?

Shannon · Yahoo User

I'd very much like to be able to use the elliptical at the gym in my complex or at the regular gym to which I have a membership, but it kills my knees because I can't lock them when I move; there's just no room for it, as it doesn't allow my legs to extend far enough. I've tried at least four different brands, and they all do the same.Is this normal for this machine? Am I supposed to be able to lock my knees while "running" on it? If not, how do other people deal with this?From what I've been told, you're not SUPPOSED to lock your knees, but this absolutely kills my knees. I can't stand it for more than 30 seconds, yet everyone I know uses ellipticals all the time without an issue and loves them. It's frustrating.