Elliptical Trainers Provide Low-Impact Cardiovascular Workouts

Should you consider purchasing an elliptical? These machines are the hottest addition in health clubs everywhere and certainly not a fad. The biggest advantage of elliptical trainers is the low-impact, oval motion in which the foot never leaves the pedal. This type of exercise is easier on your joints than a treadmill. Many models of these innovative training machines include handlebars that work the upper body, giving users a total body workout while burning more calories than any other type of home exercise equipment.

Precor introduced the first ‘elliptical fitness crosstrainer’ back in 1995. Since then, these machines have become tremendously popular. Elliptical exercise machines combine all the advantages of treadmills, stair climbers and cross country skiing in one unit. This type of low-impact cross training is suitable for anyone from beginners to seasoned athletes.

Moveable foot pedals allow you to adjust elliptical motion based on user height. This allows the user to get the optimum stride regardless of their height. This unique feature is found only on the Smooth CE Elliptical Trainer For more Info > Click Here

Exercising on an elliptical trainer has many benefits. Ellipticals provide superior aerobic exercises less the impact. Since your feet never leave the pedals there is no pounding and stress on your joints. Users who train on an elliptical machine note that this type of exercising seems easier than other workouts. This lower perceived exertion encourages users to exercise for longer periods of time which in turn produces quicker results. These machines closely simulate the natural movement of the body. That’s why working out on these cross trainers feels comfortable right from the start.

Features of elliptical machines

• Stride Length – The best ellipticals easily accommodate the whole range of your leg movements. Beware of cheaper machines that might have a shorter stride length.
   
• Adjustable Incline - This feature makes the machine a true cross trainer, provides variety to your workouts which keeps you from reaching an exercise plateau.
   
• Adjustable Resistance – Look for a machine with electronically adjustable resistance so you can incorporate interval training into your workout routine. The best units feature magnetic resistance.
   
• Forward and Reverse Motion - Most ellipticals have this option. The forward and reverse motion adds variety to your exercising routines.
   
• Electronics – It’s nice to have a  readout of calories burned, time elapsed and a means to keep track of your heart rate. Preprogrammed workouts add variety and challenges to your exercises.
   
• Safety – Motorized trainers should have an emergency shut-off. Make sure the unit won’t tip over and is sturdy enough to help maintain your balance.

These are some of the important specification of ellipticals to compare. Make sure you train on one of these machines at the gym before you decide to purchase one for your home. The merchants featured below are a great source for cross trainers and other home exercise equipment. You can buy online factory-direct and have the equipment delivered to your door.

Elliptical Buying Guide

Smooth Fitness - Ellipticals from $1299

Sole Elliptical Trainers - Rated "Best Buy". Electromagnetic Eddy Current Brake System, 20" Stride, Lifetime Warranty on Frame, 3-5 Years Parts

Amazon.com - Biggest selection of ellipticals anywhere! Over 400 models to choose from. Free shipping on most items.

Top Elliptical Trainer Brands from WorkoutWarehouse - ProForm, HealthRider, Image, NordicTrack, ProForm, Reebok and Weslo.

Also see: [ Treadmills ] [ Exercise Bikes ] [ Home Gyms ]