Elliptical trainers are one of the most popular machines both in the gym and at home. Elliptical cross trainers allow you to work your arms and legs at the same time, while keeping your feet firmly planted on the foot pads or pedals. These machines offer a cardiovascular and toning workout without the risks of high impact activities like running or jogging.
Low-Impact Workout
Elliptical trainers allow you the benefits of a weight bearing workout, like running, hiking or aerobics, without putting additional strain on the back, knees, ankles or hips, according to the Mayo Clinic. Since your feet do not leave the pedals on the elliptical, there is little or no impact, so it can be ideal if you are recovering from an injury or have joint related health conditions, providing a thorough full body workout without the risk associated with a treadmill or aerobics classes.
Cardiovascular Benefits
The elliptical trainer offers an effective aerobic workout. You can maintain an appropriate heart rate for cardiovascular benefits or opt for interval training to maximize the health benefits in the time you have available. Using an elliptical trainer for just 30 minutes per day can improve the health of your heart, lungs, and circulatory system. You can reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and osteoporosis with regular aerobic exercise on an elliptical trainer.
Full Body Workout
Since elliptical trainers have both handlebars and foot pedals, they provide a full body workout. You can also work different lower body muscles by pedaling in reverse. Incorporate handlebars and reverse motion once you are comfortable with the regular movement of the elliptical trainer. An elliptical workout engages and works the quadriceps, the hamstrings, the glutes, chest, and back, as well as the triceps and biceps. Because you're using all these major muscle groups simultaneously, these workouts can raise your metabolism higher with less effort compared to running on a treadmill or pedaling an exercise bike.
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