Elliptical trainers are a cross between a stair climber and a cross-country skier. Most ellipticals have upper-body poles, so you get a full-body workout. Besides offering variety in your cardio routine, elliptical machines provide a low-impact workout, especially compared to treadmills and stair steppers.
History
Larry Miller, an engineer for fitness equipment company Precor, is credited with developing the first elliptical machine. Before the elliptical, Precor had been researching ways to reduce stress on users' joints. It created the first cushioned treadmill in 1990. Miller patented the low-impact elliptical in 1994, and Precor introduced the Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer to its line in 1995. The original elliptical machines had only lower-body pedals. Many models now include upper-body poles similar to a cross-country ski machine.
Function
The elliptical machine offers a low-impact cardio alternative to the treadmill. You don't pick up your feet when using an elliptical machine, so there is no impact. This makes the workout easier on your knee and hip joints. The American Council on Exercise recommends an elliptical machine if you've had knee surgery or a knee injury. Using an elliptical with upper-body poles will give you a greater calorie burn than one with just lower-body pedals.
Intensity Options
Almost every elliptical machine offers several levels of pedal resistance. This tightens the pedals, like on a stationary bike, making it more difficult to move them. Depending on the model, an elliptical can have between eight and 30 levels of resistance. Some elliptical machines offer an incline ramp. Similar to the ramp on a treadmill, the incline increases the difficulty of the exercise.
Considerations
If you've had knee surgery or a knee injury, consult your physician before starting an elliptical workout routine. The knee is a complex joint, and depending on the type of injury and your movement biomechanics, an elliptical may or may not be the best machine for you. When using an elliptical machine, do not lean forward. Stand upright with your shoulders back and down. If you don't use the upper-body poles, you can place your hands on the stationary handles for balance, but don't grasp them tightly or lean on them.
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