What To Look For In An Elliptical Machine

Ellipitical machines may be better for you than working out on a treadmill, thanks to the low-impact nature of the machine on your joints, says Dr. Edward Laskowski. If you want to add an elliptical trainer to your home gym, watch for several important features to make sure the thousands of dollars you'll pay for the machine is money well spent.

Costs

Using an elliptical machine can help slim your body, but it will also likely slim down your wallet, too. In this fitness category, you'll get exactly what you pay for. "Consumer Reports" magazine notes that elliptical machines start approaching buy-worthy quality in the $2,000 range. If your bank account is on a diet, you can save money by buying elliptical trainers from previous years. If you opt for a used machine, verify that it's still under warranty, as these machines take a lot of abuse.

Space

Unlike treadmills, most elliptical machines do not fold up. Measure the elliptical machine and make sure it fits in the available room in your home. Remember that when you're on the trainer, your legs will swing forward on the pedals, as do your arms. You'll need to allot for this extra space margin, which varies on a machine-by-machine basis. The best option is to try the elliptical in the store so you know how much extra space you'll need around it.

Levels of Resistance

You'll get stronger as you use the elliptical. For the best return on your fitness investment, make sure the machine's potential can grow alongside you as you train. High-quality elliptical machines have the ability to adjust the resistance you receive while working out, so you can continue to raise the difficulty as your legs and arms become used to the exercise.

Entertainment Gadgets

If you're the kind of person who gets bored easily, you may be more prone to giving up your exercise regimen after a few weeks or months. If so, you may benefit from having an elliptical with built-in entertainment gadgets. These often include features such as a color TV -- give new meaning to the word "irony" by working out while watching food shows -- or the ability to play CDs or MP3s.

Warranties

As you beat the flab, you'll be giving your elliptical machine a beating, too. Make sure it comes with a good warranty, as nothing derails a positive workout plan like having to pay hundreds of dollars to fix your gear. Ideally, the elliptical frame should have a lifetime warranty. When it comes to parts and labor, coverage for a year is the minimal standard, but more is always better.