Elliptical trainers are a type of stationary cardio machine that combines the sensation of running with the feeling of climbing stairs. The use of elliptical machines grew from 7.37 million participants in 2000 to 26.52 million in 2009, according to a May 30, 2010, article in "Club Industry." Whether you are choosing an elliptical to use in your home or at the gym, make sure it's the right one for you.
Sturdy Frame
An elliptical trainer should always feature a sturdy frame that does not feel like it is going to tip over when you use it. Make sure the side rails support your arms at a comfortable height and assist you in keeping your balance. The machine should "fit" your body. The American College of Sports Medicine advises that a good elliptical allows you to move smoothly and stand upright. Your knees should not feel as if they are going to bump the front part of the machine. If you choose an elliptical featuring arm poles that you grip and move front to back with your legs, be sure they also feel sturdy and are placed within comfortable reach of your body.
Non-Slip Pads
An elliptical trainer is low impact because your feet never leave the pedals during your workout. The best ellipticals have non-slip "grips" on the foot pads to prevent your feet from sliding front to back during exercise. The grips also help you to have more control and facilitate greater pedaling force, enabling you to increase the intensity of your routine.
Console Readings
Look for an elliptical trainer that features a digital display on the console. Depending on the model you choose, an elliptical will report distance, stride speed, calories burned, resistance level, time and heart rate. The more information your model provides, the easier it is to customize your workout to a level appropriate for your goals.
Stride Length
An elliptical trainer should fit your legs' range of motion. Too short of a stride length can compromise the effectiveness of your overall workout. Some machines allow you to adjust the stride length, a feature that is optimal if you have family members of different sizes using the machine at home.
Member Comments