Elliptical Workout Machines
Elliptical trainers are one of the most popular types of exercise equipment for the home. They offer an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise i.e. exercise which involves the blood vessels and the heart. Regular use of an elliptical trainer will increase endurance. As there is no impact on the knees they are in many ways better than running round the park or round the streets, which can cause impact and strain on your ankles, knees, and lower back.
Elliptical trainers are ideal for people who prefer not to run outdoors. If you don't like gyms you can buy your own elliptical trainer for your home. You can still do other things while using your elliptical trainer e.g. watch TV, read a book, clean the windows. An elliptical trainer allows you to change the incline and speed. Some elliptical trainers have features that monitor the calories burned and your heart rate.
Why are they so popular ? Because they allow you to get a non-impact cardiovascular workout that also works the muscles of your upper body. An elliptical trainer ensures that your entire body is exercised. You can get an elliptical trainer starting at around $150 or spend over $4000 - some of the names to look out for are Weslo, Quantum, Octane, Precor, Proform, Healthrider, Ironman.
Motorised treadmills are also a good way of exercising but elliptical trainers have the obvious advantage of involving the upper body as well. One thing that is very important, but often overlooked with elliptical trainers, is the stride length. If you are 5'3" or less then a stride length of 16 - 18" is best. If you are 5'7" to 6'7" then go for a stride length of 20 -21".
Which kinds of elliptical machines are effective?
If you are on a tight budget then consider the Eclipse 1100 HR/A at just under $500, it offers 8 different resistance levels and several programs. Although it has a shorter stride than others, it is a very good budget trainer for beginners. It is one of the few elliptical machines at this price that has both forward and backward movement.
Precor invented the elliptical trainer and the Precor EFX 517i is considered by some to be the best overall elliptical trainer. Features include a Cross Ramp that lets you adjust the angle of incline of the pedals from 12-25 degrees for a full workout of all the leg muscles. The LED displays and graphics are state-of-the-art. It has twenty resistance levels so you will never outgrow it. It also has the smoothest motion of all elliptical machines, a large 19” stride and the best warranty. It costs around $2,300, which offers good value for money.
When you compare treadmills to elliptical trainers, you can't help but notice that the elliptical trainer offers an impact-free workout. With the elliptical, there is no impact on the ground, which may appeal to people who need a gentler workout because of joint problems or pain. The treadmill offers more impact, which helps strengthen the bones.
One obvious point that is in favor of treadmills is that it provides a better training experience for a dedicated runner/jogger than an elliptical trainer. If you are training for a marathon or even a 10k, and you don't want to go outdoors too often during the colder months, you are certainly better off with a quality treadmill.
That being said, if you are looking for a quality cardiovascular workout with the maximum amount of efficiency, the elliptical is an excellent choice. Most elliptical trainers give you a total body workout if you have dual action handlebars for your arms and foot pedals for your legs, whereas treadmills focus more on your lower body as they simulate the jogging experience. What is even more interesting, according to recent studies, is that the lack of impact on the joints allows the user to burn roughly the same amount of calories as treadmills with the impression of putting less effort.
Therefore, it is no wonder that ellipticals have been the machine of choice for seniors exercisers with knee problems, as well as physical trainers who are involved in rehabilitating their clients.
