The word elliptical is used commonly by those who work out regularly and professionals in the health and fitness world. The single word is short for elliptical machine, which is a mode of cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise is submaximal activity that elevates your heart rate and breathing rate, and provides numerous health benefits.
Elliptical
In the world of health and fitness, the word elliptical is associated with the elliptical machine, a piece of stationary cardiovascular equipment. The elliptical machine was introduced in the 1990s. It's now found in commercial and private fitness gyms, and is also available for home use.
Name History
The elliptical machine is called that because of the ellipses shape that your feet make when you pedal. It combines running with biking. The movement of the pedals on the elliptical machine is similar to that of a bicycle. But instead of moving in a circle, the pathway of your feet creates an ellipses shape.
Cardiovascular Equipment
The elliptical machine is used to train your cardiorespiratory system, or your heart, blood and lung system. When you ride an elliptical machine, your heart and lungs must increase their workload and adapt to the stresses that you're putting onto the system. As you're consistent with your workouts, you improve your body's efficiency to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and get rid of waste.
Benefits
Training your cardiorespiratory system with an elliptical machine provides many health benefits for those who are consistent with workouts. Improvements in the cardiovascular system decrease the risk of some serious health issues, such as hypertension, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and stroke. The workouts also facilitate body fat loss, because you burn a significant amount of calories over a short time.
Additional Notes
Many choose the elliptical machine as their mode of cardiovascular exercise because it allows you to read, listen to music or watch television with ease. Those with ankle, knee or hip joint issues may choose the elliptical machine because it provides a quality workout with low impact. Those who are interested in increasing their bone mass density -- older women in particular -- can incorporate high-impact activities such as running because it facilitates the growth of bone.
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