Elliptical refers to a particular type of exercise machine. The name is apt. The general definition of the word "elliptical" is "egg-shaped or oval," which is the shape of the footpads on an elliptical machine. Elliptical machines have replaced treadmills as the machine of choice among many exercise professionals because they offer people of all fitness levels low-impact, full-body, cardiovascular workouts without the stress on your joints caused by running, aerobics or even walking.
History
The elliptical machine was invented in 1995 by an engineer at the Precor exercise equipment company whose daughter needed a way to safely simulate running while she was recovering from a heel injury. The oval pedal did the trick. In subsequent years, Precor devised an incline ramp with a range of 10 to 40 degrees, and Reebok attached handles to the machine to work the upper body as well as the lower body.
Bells and Whistles
Elliptical machines offer an array of features, depending on the amount of money you want to pay. Most machines, even the relatively inexpensive ones, come with workout programs, heart rate monitors and consoles which monitor time, distance and calories burned. In addition, elliptical machines are relatively small compared to treadmills, so they take up less room if you are short on space.
Benefits
Forget the low-impact workout. Using an elliptical machine is closer to a no-impact workout. Elliptical machines are ideal if you have back, knee, hip or joint problems. They are also ideal for older people looking for a workout machine that will put as little stress as possible on their body. Elliptical machines are said to offer a lower "perceived rate of exertion," meaning that in reality you're exerting more effort than you think. You can also pedal an elliptical machine in reverse, which works different muscles.
Considerations
Edward Laskowski, a doctor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Mayo Clinic, seconds the notion that elliptical machines are better than treadmills for an aerobic workout. He advises people that good posture on the machine helps you get the most from your workout. You should keep your head up, shoulders back, abdominal muscles tight and allow your lower body to support your weight.
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