What level on the elliptical exercise machine should I use? I am trying to lose weight from the cardio workout, but I don’t want my legs muscles to get bigger. My muscles on my legs are big enough as is. I just want to lose the fat. Right now, I’ve been using level 10. I notice sometimes if I am on the machine more than 30 minutes that my calves feel sore. However, I am afraid of making the workout too easy in fear on not really burning enough fat.