An elliptical machine, also referred to as an elliptical trainer, is a piece of exercise equipment that provides a full-body low-impact aerobic workout. It is an effective adjunct to a weight loss program and is available in most fitness centers and gyms. Elliptical trainers for home use are popular and come in a wide range of selections.
Benefits
Exercise is an important element in a weight loss program because it provides a means to burn additional calories and build muscles that can boost your metabolism. Exercise also helps you feel better and more likely to stick to your diet. If your exercise program is uncomfortable or difficult, you have less of a chance of sticking to it. An elliptical trainer is a low-impact machine ideal for people with arthritis, back problems or other obesity related conditions that often keep them from exercising regularly.
Effects
An elliptical trainer utilizes your entire body, thus saving you time from separate routines. You work your legs, glutes and lower body muscles by pedaling in a circular motion. Your core receives strengthening as you work to keep your back straight and upright. Your chest and arms receive a workout when you hold the handles that move back and forward with your pedaling. You can pedal in reverse to work still more muscle groups on the same machine.
Burn
You can burn additional calories on an elliptical trainer to aid in your weight loss efforts. A 165-pound person can burn about 425 calories in a 30-minute session. Larger people burn more calories per minute and the harder you push, the more energy you can burn. An effective workout to raise your heart rate, burn additional calories and maintain a constant ride is using the machine in an interval training style. Pump at full speed for three minutes and then ride at a comfortable moderate speed for 10 minutes. Alternate back and forth to break up the monotony of the exercise and challenge your body.
Options
Elliptical trainers come with a wide range of options that can help you monitor your progress. While the only way you can lose weight is to ride the machine, monitors can help you track your progress. A built-in heart rate monitor can be used to make sure you reach your peak training capacity, while a mileage counter can track the distance you've pedaled. Other options include resistance settings that can help you build lean muscle. Many elliptical allow you to adjust the level of the machine while you're working out to simulate hill riding.
Member Comments