Elliptical trainers are seen in virtually every gym and many homes across the country. Athletes use ellipticals as a way to improve fitness and strength---they are a good alternative to other cardiovascular machines. Essentially, ellipticals are a cross between a treadmill and a stair climber, with the addition of upper-body work. They can be customized to different fitness levels, are easy to use and have numerous health benefits.
Aerobic Conditioning
When used regularly for at least 20 minutes, three to five times a week, an elliptical can increase endurance and stamina. It does this by challenging your legs and arms to continually move against resistance. As your fitness increases, you can continue to challenge yourself by increasing the speed and resistance settings.
Burns Calories
Elliptical machines are effective at helping users burn fat and calories. The higher your heart rate goes and the longer you keep it there, the more you burn. Most of these machines have the option of a pulse monitor so you can see your heart rate. You can maintain the same speed and intensity so your heart rate stays steady or vary the intensity so your heart rate increases and decreases during the workout. Both can be effective means of burning fat and calories.
Non Impact
An elliptical is non impact, meaning it does not produce significant stress on your joints. Your body gets a workout without the pounding of running on a treadmill or the road, which reduces the potential of pain and injury. Seniors and people with hip, knee or foot injuries can use an elliptical easily and safely.
Builds Strength
The technology of the elliptical makes it a useful machine for most major muscle groups. The central axis moves in a circular or elliptical motion, so the upper handlebars and lower-foot platforms are moving at the same time. This means that unlike a treadmill or stair climber, you get a total body workout. The main lower-body muscle groups worked are the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteus, hips and calf muscles. Upper-body areas worked include the arms, shoulders and back.
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