Elliptical Trainers Examined
It was just over ten years ago that elliptical trainers were introduced to the fitness industry. Today they are as commonplace as treadmills and rival their popularity. This article looks briefly at why they are so effective and then reviews some of the most popular machines on the market...
Why an Elliptical Trainer?
Elliptical cross trainers offer something no other piece of aerobic exercise equipment can - an impact free, total body workout. Weight bearing exercise such as jogging is more effective at developing bone density and burning calories than non-weight bearing exercise such as cycling. The only problem is activities like jogging place an excessive amount of stress on the back and joints...An elliptical motion provides the weight bearing element whilst maintaining an impact-free movement. The challenge of early machines was their inability to raise the heart rate without fatiguing the legs first (similar to exercise bikes). When upper body arms were added the demand for these exploded. Now they provided an impact-free, weight bearing activity that raised the heart rate more efficiently than any other piece of equipment.
Recent studies suggest that energy expenditure among overweight subjects is higher on elliptical cross trainers compared to a treadmill or exercise bike. However to the user it feels like they are doing less.
Five Important Features
1. Upper Body MotionMany of these products still provide only a lower body workout. Unfortunately this compromises one of the greatest advantages of the elliptical trainer - their ability to burn a large number of calories without leaving the user feeling excessively tired. If you're buying an elliptical machine choose a model that works your upper body as well.
2. Adjustable Resistance
Although most of these have adjustable resistance the systems used to adjust intensity vary greatly. Cheaper machines have a crude manual system that affects the quality of motion. If you can opt for electronic or magnetic adjustable resistance, they are so much smoother and quieter which leads us nicely onto...
3. Quiet Operation
Most independent customer reviews of elliptical trainers mention noise level. Although it seems a minor detail, a noisy piece of equipment can soon turn into a major irritation. The ellipticals reviewed below all take this criterion into consideration.
4. Adjustable Pedals
Adjusting the angle of the pedals allows you to focus on different muscle groups. It's also another way to add variety to your workout. More importantly the machine fits around you rather than the other way round. Not many elliptical trainers offer this facility and it's an important one. It's even more difficult to find a machine that offers both adjustable pedals and the upper body component.
5. Warranty and Servicing
Last and certainly not least is the warranty and servicing package that comes with your elliptical cross trainer. The obligation to uphold the warranty usually lies with the manufacturer and not the supplier. The standard warranty for labor is 12 months but cheaper elliptical trainers may not be covered for this. The warranty on parts varies depending on the manufacturer ranging from 90 days to 3 years. Make sure also that the company has technicians in your state so should anything go wrong you don't have to wait weeks for a solution.
With a bit of background into elliptical trainers and what to look for, let's take a closer look at some popular brands that meet our criteria...
SportsArt E83 Elliptical
SportsArt has a reputable name but is somewhat quietly advertised on the internet
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer
Schwinn has been in business for a very long time. They have had a quality product since day one and has a name that is a force to be reckoned with.
Orbitrek
Offers a great aerobic workout and is much more affordable than traditional elliptical trainers. Click for a full review.
Smooth Ellipticals
Recommended. As value for money goes Smooth is hard to beat. They are respected for their quality equipment, customer service, and popular for their factory direct prices. Their warranties and servicing lead the industry...
Precor Ellipticals
Precor are about as "top of the range" as you can get. If you want the very best and money isn't an issue look no further...
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