If you've just joined a gym or are considering it, all of those machines on the cardio floor can seem confusing. The elliptical trainer has joined classic pieces of exercise equipment such as the treadmill and exercise bike in gyms and homes. Elliptical trainers are easy on the joints, efficiently burn calories and can tone the upper and lower body in a single workout.
Function
Elliptical machines, sometimes called elliptical trainers, combine the movements of stair-stepping and cross-country skiing, according to the American College of
Sports Medicine. The machines consist of two pedals, and a large vertical shaft with a control console. Elliptical machines in the gym will also include poles and handles, allowing you to work your arms at the same time. Elliptical trainers are self-powered, rather than motorized, allowing you to control your speed. When you stop moving, so does the machine.
Significance
Elliptical trainers offer a challenging cardiovascular and calorie-burning workout. Manufacturers claim that you can burn as many as 720 calories per hour on an elliptical machine, according to EllipticalTrainerReview.com. Your exertion effort, current fitness level, age and weight will all affect how many calories you burn during a workout. Elliptical machines in your gym will allow you to input your age and weight for a more accurate estimation of calories burned during your workout.
Features
The control console on an elliptical trainer offers a number of preprogrammed workouts. These programs automatically adjust the resistance on the pedals, increasing and decreasing the intensity of your workout. You'll find workouts designed to burn calories, improve cardiovascular fitness or work on endurance. If you're new to exercise, you may find that it is best to start out with just five to 10 minutes on the elliptical trainer and work your way up to these longer and more challenging workouts, according to EllipticalTrainers.org.
Benefits
Elliptical trainers have become favorites in the gym because they offer a challenging workout without affecting the health of your joints. Your feet do not leave the pedals on the trainer, preventing impact to your knees, back, hips and ankles, according to EllipticalTrainer.org. As you move, the pedals move with your feet. Reduced exercise related injury or discomfort may allow you to exercise more often or more vigorously.
Warning
Check with your physician before beginning an exercise routine, including using an elliptical machine, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, you should consider whether you've ever been diagnosed with a heart condition, experienced dizziness or chest pain, take medications for high blood pressure or have bone or joint problems worsened by physical activity.
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