Elliptical cross-trainers are low-impact cardiovascular machines which, unlike treadmills, work both the major muscles of the lower AND upper body. These machines are popular because they are easy on the joints, but offer a challenging workout for a variety of fitness levels. Elliptical trainers all use some form of magnetic resistance adjustable to various levels of difficulty. This, coupled with pre-set programs or workouts, is what creates the force against which you must push the pedals and handlebars to work your body.
Identification
Elliptical resistance is to an elliptical cross-training machine what speed and incline controls are to a treadmill. It controls your workout intensity and, therefore, plays an important role in helping you achieve your fitness goals. Elliptical trainers use both resistance and the force required to move the foot pedals and the upper handle bars to work the muscles of the lower and upper body. This work creates heat that causes you to expend energy, or burn calories and build lean muscle. The different resistance systems of elliptical trainers include magnetic, particle brake and the eddy-current brake system.
Magnetic Resistance and Particle Brake Systems
All elliptical trainers use magnetic resistance. The stronger the magnetic resistance is (created when a spinning flywheel rotates within a magnetic field), the more resistance generated to the pedals and handlebars. Less-expensive models use a manual system that includes a magnet caliper (or fork) with magnets attached to it. Resistance is determined by the distance of the magnets from the flywheel and cranks. The closer the magnets are to the flywheel and cranks, the greater the resistance generated. Distance is controlled by hand or by motor. The particle brake resistance system does not have to be manually adjusted (may be programmed), but it responds slowly and is not widely used.
Eddy-Current Brake System
More expensive units, as well as most commercial elliptical cross-trainers, are built with eddy-current brake systems. This is considered to be the gold standard, or best, resistance system for elliptical trainers. With the eddy-current brake system, the resistance is controlled by a current that runs from the console to the electromagnet vs. a manual magnet-caliper system. The strength of the current determines the amount of resistance supplied to the flywheel and cranks. It is completely silent and smooth.
Which Is Best?
With the basic particle brake resistance mechanism, there are moving parts involved. Models using only this type of resistance are more susceptible to wear and tear (of parts), possible breakdown and maintenance. Also, elliptical trainers in this category are slightly louder and less durable than those using the more sophisticated electromagnetic resistance. With the eddy-current brake system, there are no moving parts, and thus less wear and tear, maintenance and a lower likelihood of breakdown or malfunction. Ellipticals using the eddy-current brake system are the best, but also the most expensive.
Methods for Resistance Control
The basic resistance system is the main mechanism for controlling the force supplied by this piece of cardiovascular equipment. However, pre-programmed workouts provide the user another way to adjust resistance. Most elliptical trainers have three mechanisms for controlling resistance: pre-installed programs, manual control or heart rate control. These programs are designed to use information such as gender, weight and age to become easier or more difficult to keep your heart within its target range.
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