Similar to the elliptical trainers found in most gyms, the Tony Little Gazelle may offer a low impact workout for people who suffer joint or tendon problems. Novices or people just starting to work out may find the Tony Little Gazelle workout to be intense, but more experienced exercisers may long for something a bit more challenging. The Tony Little Gazelle is designed to give you an aerobic workout while working both your upper and lower body.
Risks
Though the Tony Little Gazelle is low impact because it involves no up and down movement of your feet, incorrect use could cause excessive stretching of your Achilles tendon. The repetitive motion required to use the Gazelle and elliptical machines puts stress on your Achilles tendons. Cheaper models of exercise equipment may include design flaws that put stress on your Achilles tendon. As of 2011, you can purchase the Tony Little Gazelle for about $200, while gym-quality elliptical machines can cost more than $6,000. It is always best before you start a new physical workout routine that consult with your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to exercise. All exercises include some type of risk, and only you and your doctor can determine if the risk outweighs the benefits.
Reasons for Injury
Physical activities such as walking, running, skiing and cycling--on or off exercise machines--can stress and tear your Achilles tendon. People who play basketball, tennis, football and softball--particularly men between the ages of 30 and 50--face a greater risk of rupturing their Achilles tendons. Achilles tendon problems may result from overuse, misalignment, improper footwear and not warming up before exercising. Injury may also result when an individual is not in the best overall physical health. If you have tightness or weakness in your legs, knees or hips that puts added strain on your Achilles tendons, it is important to seek medical advice before attempting a workout such as one involving the Tony Little Gazelle.
Prevention
There are simple steps you can do that may prevent Achilles tendon problems while using the Tony Little Gazelle. One is simply to increase your level of activity on the Tony Little Gazelle slowly and gradually. It is important to take the time to pick out good shoes that are comfortable and cushion your heels as well as give you good arch support for working out on the Tony Little Gazelle. You can also do daily stretches in the morning on your calf muscles and Achilles tendons before and after using the Tony Little Gazelle.
Pain Alleviation
No evidence suggests that the Tony Little Gazelle is more harmful to the Achilles tendons than similar exercise machines. If you do find yourself with pain in your Achilles tendons using the Tony Little Gazelle there are a few simple steps you can do to alleviate your pain. The first is to stop the exercise and rest, while applying ice on your tendons as cold therapy. Do not use heat. Heat can cause the muscle tissue to swell. Consider using a temporary heel pad that can raise your heel up and take the strain off your Achilles tendon. If your condition worsens see a specialist who knows how to deal with sports injuries and can recommend a good rehabilitation treatment. A doctor can handle treatment in a number of different ways such as prescribing anti-inflammatory medication. It is never wise to ignore problems with your Achilles tendons. If left untreated you could permanently damage your Achilles tendon.
References
- Exercise Equipment Review: The Gazell Freestyle Review
- AchillesTendon.com: Everything About Achilles Tendons
- MayoClinic.com; Achilles Tendonitis; April 29, 2010
- SportsInjuryClinic.net: Achilles Tendonitis
- All Ellipticals: Three Reasons Why an Elliptical Hurts the Knees
- "American Family Physician"; Common Conditions of the Achilles Tendon; Michael F. Mazzone and Timothy McCue; May 1 2002
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