Elliptical trainers provide an efficient, low-impact way to exercise. However, like other stationary exercise machines, you're typically stuck indoors while using an elliptical. Unless you have an interesting distraction such as a good book, most stationary aerobic machines can become monotonous. If you like elliptical exercise but wish you could truly be in forward motion while gliding, opt for an elliptical bicycle instead. Especially get intense leg workouts using an elliptical bike.
Stationary Elliptical Trainers
Depending on what type of stationary elliptical trainer you ride, you can get a good overall or lower-body workout. The step-gliding movement of an elliptical machine provides low-impact aerobic training, as well as weight-bearing exercise that helps build bone and muscle strength. You can do a variety of leg exercises on an elliptical trainer, including forward and backward gliding strides, and if the machine you're riding has preset programs, you can change the intensity of your workout. Some stationary elliptical machines come with arm levers also that give your upper body a workout too. Take it up a notch on an elliptical bike, and get even more of an aerobic workout while riding on a paved bicycle path or trail.
Elliptical Bike
Take your workouts outside and travel locally on an elliptical bicycle. If you've ever wished that an elliptical trainer you were riding at the gym or at home wasn't stationary, now you can go places on an elliptical bike. It's like running outdoors but without the impact of the pavement. You get a great aerobic workout gliding along on an elliptical bike, and the upright position helps you to maneuver and maintain balance. Dismounting is easier on an elliptical glide bike, and with the increased visibility you get riding in an upright position, it's safer than riding a road bike. Because of the way the elliptical bike is designed, it's also less likely you will be thrown over the handle bars, says ElliptiGo. Although you primarily get an intense leg workout on an elliptical bike, certain elliptical bike models have moving handle bars, which work out your arms, shoulders, back and core as well. Use the elliptical bike as a way to get low-impact daily exercise or to cross-train as an athlete. Burn up to 1,000 calories per hour, according to StreetStrider.
Leg Workouts
Elliptical bikes automatically work out legs since the machines provide a low-impact way to emulate running. You can go faster or ride uphill for a more intense leg workout on an elliptical bike, and some models come with gears like those found on a 10-speed bicycle. Shift gears on these models for more intensity or make it easier to ride up hill.
Ride Indoors
If you don't feel like getting out, or the weather is rough, you can ride most elliptical bikes inside or on a covered patio or deck. Place your elliptical bike on the stationary trainer mount that comes with many models. The piece securely holds your bike upright and allows you to convert your bike into a stationary elliptical trainer. Besides simply riding stationary to give your legs a workout, you can also increase the intensity of your ride on most models by adjusting the mount. Other adjustments you can make to work out your leg muscles using an elliptical bike include increasing your speed and pedaling backwards. Some elliptical bikes allow you to change settings or gears in the stationary position to adjust the intensity level of your leg workout, as well as arm exercise.
Member Comments