The mini elliptical might be small in stature but it can be big on benefits. The machine is a scaled-down version of the full-size elliptical, with the same movements that are a mix of a treadmill, stair climber and bicycle. Mini ellipticals start with the benefit of being an effective cross-trainer.
Aerobic Workout
Mini ellipticals give you an aerobic workout that moves large muscle groups and elevates your heart rate for a sustained period. Regular aerobic exercise can burn calories, fat and improve your overall fitness level. Because you are upright on the mini elliptical, the machine offers a weight-bearing aerobic workout that strengthens your muscles and bones. The lower-body motion specifically works your leg and butt muscles while an attached handle simultaneously works your arms, shoulders and upper body.
Calories Burned
An elliptical workout can burn up to 720 calories per hour, higher than other aerobic machines, according to Women Fitness. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you can burn 277 calories per hour walking at a pace of 3.5 mph on the treadmill, 584 calories per hour jogging at 5 mph on the treadmill and 438 calories per hour on a stationary bike at a pace of 10 mph.
Low Impact, High Intensity
A low-impact workout is a mini elliptical benefit, especially if you have problems with your knees, hips or back. The smooth, sliding motion is easier on your joints than pounding your feet on the treadmill. Although the machine is low impact, it can be high in intensity, increasing your heart rate more than walking or riding a stationary bike.
Full-Size Elliptical
Two major benefits of a mini elliptical over a full-size elliptical are its small size and price. A mini elliptical can weigh as few as 36 pounds and measure 17 inches long, 11 inches wide and 49 inches high with a handle. Compare this to the larger version, which can weigh 175 pounds and measure 64 inches long, 24 inches wide and 63 inches high with its handles. Mini elliptical prices, as of March 2011, started at $100, while traditional machines cost $210 or more, with several priced above $400. With its lower price and lighter weight, the mini elliptical may not be as durable as the full-size model.
References
- Women Fitness: Elliptical Trainer
- Mayo Clinic; Exercise for Weight Loss: Calories Burned in 1 Hour; Dec. 1, 2009
- American Council on Exercise: Calorie Burners: Activities That Turn Up the Heat
- Wal-Mart: Sunny Health Fitness Mini Elliptical Trainer With Handle Bar
- Wal-Mart: Gold's Gym Stridetrainer 595 Elliptical
- American Council on Exercise; What's the Best Piece of Cardio Equipment to Use?; Jessica Matthews
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