There are a lot of people who prefer to use elliptical training machines to get fit. The exercise equipment that has been designed to imitate a natural walking motion using the elliptical’s arm bars and pedals. Because you will not have contact with the ground as you are working out, you will not have to worry about injuries caused by impact. Different brands and models of elliptical trainers cost hundreds to thousands of dollars which is why it is important to buy the right one for you to use. Here are some of the most useful tips in buying elliptical training machines.
The most important factor when choosing an elliptical training machine is its comfort. This type of exercise equipment feature different stride lengths so consider your height when shopping for one. There are some elliptical trainers that have 14-inch long striders. This is quite short and will be quite uncomfortable to use. It is advisable to get an elliptical with at least 18-inch stride. While the difference is only 4 inches, you will really be able to notice how more comfortable it is to use an elliptical that has a longer stride.
Stability is one of the first factors that you should consider when buying an elliptical trainer. You would not want to use one that is wobbly as not only is it uncomfortable but also unsafe. Elliptical trainers differ in its ability to handle weight. As a rule, you should get an elliptical that is able to support 50 pounds more than what you currently weight to ensure stability.
It is important for you to try out the elliptical training machine that you are interested in. Get on it and try the pedals. The stride length might be short or long for you but this should not become a problem if it is adjustable. Try as many elliptical training machines as you can and choose one that feels most comfortable and stable.
Elliptical exercise trainers are a very popular type of exercise machine as they are easy to use and are low impact so they won't cause any damage to the joints. They provide 'weight bearing' exercise so are very good for maintaining bone density as we age. They are very efficient in burning calories so can help you to lose weight when combined with a good diet. They also provide both aerobic and resistance training so they are also called 'cross trainers' and work both the lower and upper body for a full workout.
In most machines you can adjust the resistance easily so that you can increase the effort needed, and the benefit to your muscles, as you increase in fitness. Elliptical exercise trainers are smaller than treadmills so are often more convenient to have at home as many people do not have sufficient space for a full sized treadmill or other type of exercise equipment. Maintenance of these machines is minimal and running costs are therefore very low.
Different Types of Elliptical Exercise Trainers
You can buy these machines in two types depending on whether the drive operates on the front or the rear. In a rear driven machine the motion feels more like stepping while the motion in a front drive machine will feel more like that of a treadmill. Motorised inclines are included in some of the more expensive models to increase the resistance. All of these machines can be used in forward or backward motion which will give some variety to your workout and help to tone leg muscles. Some models include a pivotting foot plate to give a more comfortable position for your feet.
Some Benefits of Using Elliptical Exercise Trainers
Using an elliptical exercise trainer gives you a low impact workout that tones both the upper and lower body. if you have any joint problems, especially with the knees, these machines won't put any extra strain on them. They give a very good aerobic workout so are very good for help with stress, heart problems and high blood pressure. If you use them to give a vigorous workout they can help to reduce body fat.
What to Look for When Buying an Elliptical Exercise Trainer
- The weight of the fly wheel. A heavier fly wheel will give you a much smoother motion but some cheap models have very light fly wheels which can stick and cause a jerky motion as you apply pressure to overcome the resistance when they stick.
- The number of resistance levels. You will want a good number of resistance levels so that you can increase the intensity of your workout as your fitness level increases.
- Built in programs. The more built in programs the better if you get bored easily!
- Built in heart rate monitor. This is very useful for keeping your heart in the correct zone so that you ensure your workout is effective. Programs can include adjusting the incline, hill runs, interval training etc
- Price. Of course all the above features depend on the price you are willing to pay. It is not really economical to go for the cheapest machine you can find as it won't last very long or give you a satisfactory workout.
Elliptical exercise trainers are rightly popular for the good all round workout they give, which will tone up your muscles, help to keep your hear healthy and help to control your weight. With a little thought before you buy your machine you can make the right choice and be confident you have the right machine for your needs.
Elliptical machine image by teach42
If you want to keep fit then sports such as tennis, basketball and soccer are certainly going to help you do this. Not to mention the fact that they are very cheap to play because you only need basic equipment. However the downside is that they aren't very good for those who have problems with their joints and need something more low-impact. This is especially true for older people and those who have just given birth or have had some sort of surgery.
There are many different items of low-impact exercise equipment that can be used to increase your cardiovascular system, muscle strength, balance and such like. Some items of equipment can be pretty expensive whilst others are much more affordable
The rowing machine is the perfect example of equipment that gives your cardio a boost but puts very little weight only your joints. It also helps build the muscles and other tissues that will help to support your joints.
Exercise bikes are great for working out your lower body and cardio system. You are simply moving your legs in a circular motion which means you aren't jolting those joints.
An elliptical trainer has become very popular in recent years yet could never be described as simply a passing fad. They can really help with your coordination and builds up your legs muscles. By using the hand bars you'll be able to work out your upper body too.
The Swiss ball is perhaps the cheapest item of low-impact fitness equipment that you can buy but is also one of the best. A lot of people are now using the Swiss ball to work out in all sorts of different ways. By sitting on the ball and lifting one of both of your feet off the ground you're really using your core muscle to stabilise yourself. You can also use it to do press-ups, sit ups in addition to weight lifting with free weights. Buy some DVDs so that you can follow the different exercises in your own home or you can go to some classes in your local area.
Another low-cost option is the stair stepper. Basically it's a simple machine that you stand on and move the platforms in a stepping motion. This is very good for building up the strength of your knees and ankles without doing any damage to them.
Pilates is quite like yoga but with some differences. These is a machine that can be bought called a Pilates Performer which can help your stretch your muscles whilst making them stronger too. When your body starts to get used to the machine there are some accessories that you can add to make things more difficult. There are also DVDs that you can buy so that you can change your routine now and again.
Whatever reason you have for needing low-impact exercise, it's important that you follow the instruction correctly and make sure you don't overdo anything. Some people get a bit carried away and start to exercise too much. You need to give your body time to adjust to your new exercising and allow your muscles a day or two to repair themselves.
