There are a number of brands, models, designs and features to choose from when selecting an in-home elliptical machine. Knowing the important specifications will help you form distinctions between each model and make an informed purchased that's right for your needs. The ultimate deciding factor is how each model feels when you are using it.
Design
One of the most obvious comparisons between elliptical trainers is whether they offer an upper body workout option or not. Some ellipticals have arm levers which you move in sync with your legs. This design provides a total body workout on one machine. For ellipticals that do have arm levers, look at how many levels of resistance are offered.
Intensity Options
Depending on the model, you can increase the ramp incline or increase the pedal resistance to make your workout more difficult. Most models offer several levels of pedal resistance -- as many as 32 levels down to as few as four. An incline feature is not as common as pedal resistance, but is an option on numerous models.
Programs
Preset programs adjust the pedal resistance and incline, if available, for you. The programs take you through an entire workout, including the warm-up, the workout itself and the cool-down. Most elliptical trainers offer at least a couple of built-in programs. Others have as many as 25 different preset workout options. More advanced models offer heart rate control programs that will adjust the workout intensity to keep your heart rate in its target zone.
Features
Elliptical machines have electronic consoles that provide feedback about your workout. The display shows distance, speed in revolutions per minute, time and approximate calories burned. Many models have pulse sensors so you can track your heart rate. Other console features to look for are a cooling fan, book rack, water bottle holder and iPod compatibility.
Comfort
Stride length is an important component when comparing the comfort level of elliptical machines. Longer strides, generally over 18 inches, tend to feel more natural for many users, especially taller users. Strides under 18 inches can feel choppy and jerky. Some elliptical machines offer an adjustable stride length which not only changes the feel of the workout, but also changes the muscles that are being emphasized during the workout. Longer strides put more emphasis on the glutes and hamstrings, shorter strides on the front of the thigh.
Member Comments