Elliptical training equipment is a standard at most gyms and widely available for use in the home. The elliptical trainer is a low-impact piece of aerobic exercise equipment that provides a total body workout including the arms, legs, core and buttocks. In addition to toning and strengthening, elliptical training equipment is a good addition to a weight loss program because aerobic levels can easily be reached.
Cross-Training
Elliptical training equipment provides a cross-training workout that incorporates the value of running, lifting weights and speed walking all at the same time. The legs, abdomen muscles and calves get a workout while the body receives valuable cardiovascular benefits. Elliptical trainers often have adjustable resistance settings to increase muscle production. Elevating ramps and speed adjustments can add even more diversity to a fitness regimen. Most elliptical trainers also ride backwards to work different muscles.
Proper Use
To get the full benefits afforded by an elliptical trainer and to avoid injury, the user should maintain the proper posture by keeping the shoulders back and head up. Abdominals should be tightened while the arms are kept in a relaxed position. The rider should not lean forward when riding the machine; instead weight should be evenly distributed to the lower part of the body. A relaxed, easy stride is the best way to maintain a thorough workout.
Safety
Elliptical trainers often are prescribed for people who have had knee, ankle or leg surgery because they provide a low-impact exercise that does not jar the fragile bones. People with joint pain or who are recovering from a joint injury can use elliptical trainers. Elliptical trainers are ideal for people who have had a spinal injury or are recovering from back surgery. Athletes using elliptical for cross-training purposes reduce the risk of injury while getting a workout.
Purchase
Elliptical training machines are available in a variety of sizes with a slew of optional features for home use. According to doctors at the American College of Sports Medicine, consumers should make sure that the size of the elliptical machine suits the size and range of motion of the person who will be using it. Motorized machines should have safety turn-off switches and the equipment should be sturdy so that it will not move around when in use. Additional features that could make the exercise more enjoyable include built-in reading racks and televisions, speakerphones and heart rate, calorie and distance monitors.
Disadvantages
While elliptical training equipment can seem like an ideal workout, there are obstacles that may prevent some people from taking full advantage of the machines. There is some pressure required to begin the riding motion, sometimes too difficult for those recovering from injuries to get started. Since they do provide a low impact workout, there is very little weight-bearing exercise involved, an important issue for older people to prevent osteoporosis. Though the whole body is involved in the exercise, the legs do most of the work and receive most of the workout, requiring other exercises to fully workout the upper body.
Member Comments