Elliptical Trainers

Elliptical Trainers are taking the home fitness equipment
industry by storm. This hybrid combination of a treadmill, stepper and
bike offers a low impact workout that puts no stress on the person’s
joints or lower back. This advantage is especially appealing to the
aging baby boomer population . Yet, the physiological results such as
cardio-respiratory benefits and calories burned, are nearly identical
to that achieved with treadmill exercise.

Motion studies reveal that our feet move in an elliptical
(egg shape) pattern when walking, running, or jogging. Initially, elliptical
trainers focused exclusively on foot motion only, meaning that only
the lower body got a workout. Your feet don’t leave the footpads, ensuring
a no-impact joint-friendly workout. Elliptical trainers are safe to
use as the machine stops when you do. They are an ideal choice for people
with back, knee, hip or joint problems.

Later elliptical cross trainers were developed
that included arm handles in addition to the foot pads enabling a combined
upper and lower body workout. This means a very efficient use of your
time to reach more results. The elliptical cross trainers optimize energy
expenditure for efficient fat burning.

The most recent development in elliptical machines is
the Agile "Dynamic Motion Trainer" introduced by Smooth Fitness.
No longer confined to the straight and narrow path, this revolutionary
workout machine adjusts in such a way as to guide your body through
twelve distinct motions. Muscles from every region of your body are
thus involved. This combination of cardio plus muscle toning means a
more effective workout producing results faster.

Elliptical trainers are easy to use and even beginners
feel comfortable using them right away because they simulate a natural
way of moving.

Classification:

Cardio fitness,

Muscle toning (Agile DMT model)

Body areas utilized:

Elliptical cross trainers tone several muscle groups simultaneously
– quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, chest back, triceps and biceps.

Points to consider:

  • adjustable incline – adds variety to the routine as well as varies
    the focus on muscle groups
  • good elliptical motion – your heel should not come up off the footpad
    – shouldn’t feel any “kick”
  • smooth movement – does the motion feel smooth?
  • forward and reverse motions – adds variety and challenge; reduces
    risk of repetitive use injury;
  • dependant upper body motion (for total body ellipticals only) –
    make sure that both motions are comfortable, and feel natural
  • adjustable resistance – simple electronic adjustment to facilitate
    interval training
  • quiet operation
  • electronic features -(example, calories expended) look for features
    that you feel would be motivating and challenging for you
  • warranty – look for a minimum of 1 year on labor and minimum of
    1-3 years on parts, make sure it covers electronics
  • safety features – warm-up and cool down periods, heart rate feedback,
    handgrips comfortable but not obtrusive,

Models to Check Out:


Smooth Elliptical CE Plus – designed with a 3-1 ratio of lower body
resistance to upper body resistance which match the body’s normal ratio
of muscle mass of upper and lower body. As the workout progresses, all
limbs fatigue equally, a factor critical for longer fat burning workout
programs.  Contrast this with machines designed with equal resistance
for upper and lower body.  Your upper body will fatigue sooner
while your legs are hardly noticing any effect.

Smooth Agile DMT Trainer -adjustable motion training allows you to combine cardio and muscle toning for every region of your body for a very effective workout.

NordicTrack Elite 1300 – solid value in a model that won’t disappoint

NordicTrack Commercial 1300 – great quality for a budget priced model

Proform XP Stride Climber – close second after the NordicTrack Commercial
1300

Proform XP 420 Raxor – low end elliptical suitable for only occasional use