The Gazelle is a piece of cardio equipment designed to provide a low-impact, full-body workout. Older model Gazelles have resistance settings that improve muscle tone and strength, while new models come without resistance options, making them effective for burning calories and aerobic exercise. Gazelle stopped producing resistance training options in 2010. However, the models can still be found in pre-owned sporting goods stores, online and at yard sales.
Aerobic Workout
Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate while burning fat and calories. If you work at a moderate pace for 20 minutes or more, you burn more calories and improve your cardiovascular fitness level. Working at a moderate to vigorous pace on the Gazelle provides an effective aerobic workout. Machines that offer resistance settings can increase your caloric burn and heart rate at moderate to high levels of resistance. If working at a high level of resistance causes you to tire quickly, work at a lower setting. A person who weighs 160 lbs. burns approximately 575 calories per hour while exercising at a moderate pace on the Gazelle.
Resistance Training Workout
Lean muscle mass is built through resistance training such as lifting weights or performing pushups. Resistance training causes tiny tears in your muscles, which then repair and expand, resulting in larger muscles. This process of tearing, repairing and growing is called muscular hypertrophy. Working at a high resistance on a Gazelle uses more muscle strength and over time begins the process of hypertrophy. The arm levers tone your biceps, triceps and pectorals, while the pedals tone your lower body. Gazelle models without resistance settings provide little resistance training.
Impact
A Gazelle offers a no-impact workout because both feet remain on the pedals for the duration of the workout. This benefit allows those who are overweight or suffer from joint problems to engage in aerobic exercise without risk of injury or pain. Consult your physician before using a Gazelle to determine if it's an appropriate aerobic exercise for you.
Considerations
Like most exercise equipment, the Gazelle provides an effective workout and health benefits when used properly and regularly. The Gazelle with resistance settings involves more effort, which builds muscle tone and endurance. The machines with little resistance provide a high-intensity aerobic workout. When you use your body's momentum to use the machine, you work your muscles less and burn less calories. Always warm-up and cool-down when using the Gazelle. For optimum results, exercise for 30 minutes at least five day a week.
Member Comments