The elliptical trainer is quickly becoming one of the most popular exercise machines. Use of the trainer grew from 7.37 million in 2000 to more than 26 million in 2009, reports a May 2010 issue of Club Industry. The elliptical trainer simulates the movement of running, without impact. Elliptical trainers provide a simple way for most exercisers to achieve an effective cardiovascular workout.
History
The elliptical trainer began to become a common fixture in fitness facilities in the 1990s. The fitness manufacturing company Precor patented its design for the elliptical in 2004. Other manufacturers, such as Life Fitness, Freemotion, Nordic Trac and Horizon also produce ellipticals.
Design
The elliptical trainer consists of two pedals that you glide along rails with your feet. The joint and muscle movement is similar to that of running, but you do not experience any pounding because your feet never leave the pedals. On higher-end models, the exerciser can raise and lower the height of the rails to work different muscles of the legs. Commercial ellipticals found in health clubs feature consoles that offer calorie readouts, distance traveled, stride speed, cross ramp height, workout time and heart rate. These machines are made to withstand frequent usage and reach inclines of 20 percent. They also offer resistance levels ranging from "1" for easy to "15," very challenging.
Benefits
The gliding movement of the elliptical is easy on the joints, notes Dr. Edward R. Laskowski of the Mayo Clinic. The movement is easy to learn. The machine accommodates multiple fitness levels. The elliptical also offers variety in workouts. You can perform intervals, steady-state endurance sessions and hill climbs. Working out on the elliptical burns the same amount of calories as running, provided you work out at the same intensity.
Technique
Maintaining proper form when exercising on the elliptical helps you get the most out of your workouts and prevents injury. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends keeping your head up and shoulders back while pedaling to avoid putting excessive pressure on the spine. Relax the arms and avoid gripping the console or side rails tightly. Allow your lower body to support you weight and do the work.
Considerations
Although the elliptical trainer is a low impact activity, you still have to stand and bear your weight when exercising. This may be uncomfortable for people carrying a significant amount of extra weight. People who are balance challenged, have severe back pain or hip trouble may find that an elliptical aggravates these symptoms.
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