The Gazelle is a home cardio exercise machine that is described as a "glider" and is marketed on television by trainer Tony Little. The movement of the Gazelle resembles something between that of a cross-country skier and an elliptical, and it is used primarily as a method for losing weight.
Features
The Gazelle gliders are equipped with a handful of features purported to make your exercise sessions more effective. The primary feature is the dual-action split suspension, which is a patented design to give you a smooth, full range of motion as you exercise. A small computer console attached to the frame gives you feedback on your distance, time and speed as you work out, as well as the approximate number of calories you have burned. The frame is made from 1.5-inch gauge steel tubing and can support up to 250 lbs.
Benefits
The Gazelle is a low-impact exerciser that purportedly enables people with knee, back and hip problems to exercise at a fast pace without joint discomfort. The mechanics of the machine enable you to work your cardiovascular system and tone muscles at the same time.
The machine is suitable for all age ranges and fitness levels; you control the speed and power and can work out as slow or fast as you like. The Gazelle also boasts the same convenience benefits as a treadmill -- you can exercise regardless of the weather and don't have to drive to the gym to work out.
Exercises
The design of the Gazelle machine enables movement from a slow walking motion up to an all-out sprint. You can place stress on specific muscles and at different angles by varying your position slightly. Glide on the machine while up on the balls of your feet or with your knees bent to get a change from the standard gliding position. You can also lean back while holding the handles, or lean forward for more of an upper-body workout. Turning your body sideways and placing your feet perpendicular to the pedals lets you stretch your groin and work your hip muscles.
One potential negative is that because you supply the power, it is easier to lose some intensity and coast when you get tired, because you don't have to keep up the way you would on a treadmill.
Muscles Worked
Given the different variations and body positions you can use on a Gazelle, it is possible to work several different muscle groups. Your respiratory system gets a workout, as do your quadriceps, calves, hamstrings, hips, buttocks and midsection. By leaning forward and backward, you place stress on your biceps, triceps, chest and upper-back muscles.
Member Comments