Elliptical exercise machines have several benefits over treadmills, and they offer some advantages and disadvantages for the exerciser. These machines come in a variety of brands with several console options. The more options on the elliptical, the more expensive it is.
Low Impact
One of the benefits of an elliptical machine is its ability to give the exerciser a low impact workout that burns hundreds of calories without the stress on knees. An elliptical trainer moves in motion with the exerciser's legs, so the knees avoid stress from pounding on concrete. This makes an elliptical especially beneficial for people with bad knees or leg conditions that keep them from outdoors and treadmill workouts. The calories burned are relative to the same amount of calories during a low impact walk on a treadmill. The elliptical can also move backwards, so it facilitates a workout walking forward and backwards, which works separate muscle groups.
More Calories Burned
Some ellipticals are built with arm handles. These arm handles add resistance training to a workout that burn more calories and help build muscle in the upper body. The more muscles moved, the more calories the body burns, even while the exerciser is not active. The display console on an elliptical can also set the speed and resistance for the leg and arm extensions. More resistance builds more muscles in the body, making a more effective workout.
Balance and Coordination Issues
The disadvantage of an elliptical is the balance and coordination needed by the exerciser. Using an elliptical requires some kind of balance. When the exerciser steps on the feet pads, the machine automatically starts moving, making it difficult to begin the workout. It's also difficult to stop the elliptical once it has started. The exerciser is unable to stop the elliptical from moving right away, so it also does not stop quickly in case of an emergency.
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