Machine Basics
An elliptical machine is a cardiovascular exercise machine designed to get your heart rate pumping while minimizing impact on your joints. There are three types of elliptical trainers, each of which is distinguished by where or who powers the basic motion: self-driven, front-driven or center-driven.
First consider the basic components of an elliptical trainer, which is designed to mimic running. You place your feet on foot plates. These foot plates primarily drive the motion, yet you do not have to place and replace your feet as you do on a treadmill. The second component is arm handles that are either stationary, where you place your hands at the sides or at chest-level, or move alongside you in sync with your feet.
When these parts are activated, you mimic the motion of running, yet you are supported by both the foot pedals and arm handles.
Elliptical Features
Performed at a high enough rate, the elliptical trainer's motion is enough to make a cardiovascular impact. However, many elliptical trainers feature additional functions to increase the machine's effectiveness.
The first is the ability to affect resistance. Elliptical machines often feature a knob or electronic keypad that increases the difficulty you have in performing the elliptical motion. Increasing the resistance can make you feel as if you are pushing harder and using your muscles more.
The second adjustment option is an incline ramp. By increasing the incline ramp, you may feel as if you are climbing a hill, which utilizes different muscles, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, as compared to a standard elliptical motion.
Explanation of Different Models
The three different types of elliptical machines all work in different ways to enhance an exercise session. The self-driven model is perhaps the oldest and also the highest impact. This elliptical requires the exerciser to do all the work and therefore does not contain a motor or other device that can increase the elliptical machine's incline.
The second type is the front-driven device. This machine relies on a motor located in the front portion of the elliptical to power the device as well as increase the resistance or incline platform. While these are considered significantly more efficient and of lower impact than a self-driven device, these place all the power toward the front of the device, where the axle turns.
Center-driven ellipticals are considered the newest and smoothest functioning elliptical machines. This device typically contains two axles, meaning motion is centered between the front and back axles. The concepts behind this type of machine is to encourage the best posture, form and smoothness associated with an elliptical workout.
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