The Basics: Elliptical Machines
Anyone who's ventured into a gym or health club recently knows just how popular elliptical machines have become in the last few years. Elliptical machines, or cross-trainers as they are sometimes called, combine the exercise motions of the most popular pieces of home fitness equipment. The term "elliptical" comes from the oblong pattern the pedals make when in motion, delivering an exercise that is part treadmill, part stair climber, part exercise cycle, and part ski machine, all rolled into one. An elliptical machine enables you to either glide in an elliptical motion as you would on a ski machine or, with a simple adjustment of the pedals, increase the incline to get more of a stair-stepping or bicycle action. The end result is a low-impact machine that provides a great cardiovascular workout and exercises a wide range of lower body muscles. The elliptical machines that also feature dual action arm poles even add an upper body workout for a complete exercise system.
One of the major reasons for the popularity of elliptical machines is the versatility these devices offer. Any exercise routine can become boring and repetitive after a while, so the more flexibility a machine offers, the more you'll be able to vary your workouts and keep them interesting. In addition to the ability to change the level of resistance like an exercise bike, for example, an elliptical machine with a cross ramp also enables you to adjust the incline like a treadmill. Dual action handlebars provide the option of incorporating an upper body workout, or you can ignore the handlebars and just focus on a lower body or cardio workout. An elliptical machine also offers the opportunity to pedal in reverse as well as forwards, thereby enabling you to exercise different lower body muscle groups. An elliptical machine with a selection of preprogrammed workouts can automatically vary the resistance and the incline, incorporate pushing or pulling of the arm poles, and alternate between pedaling forwards and in reverse. The result is a home fitness device that provides a huge selection of workout variations to keep you motivated to achieve your fitness goals.
However you choose to use an elliptical your feet remain flat at all times within the pedals, so there is no strain on back, hips, or joints. Even while providing a high intensity workout, an elliptical machine offers an impact similar to that sustained while walking. This makes an elliptical machine a much more suitable home fitness product than a treadmill for those who are significantly overweight or suffer from back or joint pain.
How to Shop
It is important to shop wisely for a home elliptical machine, as it's something you'll want to be comfortable using on a regular basis. While prices range from a few hundred dollars for a very basic elliptical machine to several thousand for a high end, health club quality unit, we suggest you avoid trendy or cute equipment. Take the time to learn which elliptical machine will best help you accomplish your desired goals and offers the most appropriate features in your budget range. If you are looking for an elliptical machine purely as a way to get a cardio or lower body workout, then there is no need to pay extra for a unit that features dual action arm poles. If you are just "testing the waters" of regular exercise, you probably want to try a less expensive model. Until you know that exercise is right for you and have proven your commitment, it may be wise to keep your costs down. On the other hand, experienced exercisers with a history of regular workouts should look for a high-quality elliptical machine that will not only stand up to the test of time, but offer all the features they might want to enhance their workout experience.There are two main types of elliptical machines available: rear drive and front drive. The rear drive units enable a true elliptical movement of the pedals and provide an adjustable incline ramp at the front of the machine. A front drive elliptical machine, on the other hand, needs to use articulating pedals in order to match a natural stride, and also lacks the adjustable ramp of a rear drive unit. Needless to say, most users prefer the rear drive elliptical machines. The advantage of a front drive unit is the cost. They are cheaper to manufacture and therefore cheaper to buy than most rear drive units. No matter how much of a bargain it seems, however, we recommend you avoid any front drive unit that offers no articulating pedals, since the motion is usually unnatural and uncomfortable.
There are two different types of resistance and braking controls to be found on elliptical machines: manual and electromagnetic. The cheapest, manual system involves simply adjusting a knob to vary the machine's resistance, while an electronic control uses magnetic currents for accurate braking and speed control at the touch of a button.
Higher end elliptical machines, like higher end treadmills or stationary bikes, offer a selection of preprogrammed exercise routines, as well as feedback on aspects of your workout such as time, calories burned, distance traveled and even heart rate. Heart rate monitoring is achieved by either holding grip sensors built in to the stabilizer bar, or via a polar telemetry heart-rate monitoring strap. Of course, such features also involve spending more money. If you select an elliptical machine with no heart rate monitoring system built in, we recommend you invest in a separate, low cost monitor. Even an inexpensive heart rate monitor will help to ensure that you are working out at the ideal intensity to achieve your particular fitness objectives.
The more preprogrammed workouts an elliptical machine offers, the more you can vary your workouts to prevent them becoming stale and uninteresting. The electronic consoles on higher end machines often feature toggle displays that can be switched between different statistics, while some even offer an iFit.com function. This connects the machine to a computer to guide you through even more preprogrammed workouts. Regardless of price, however, the console on an elliptical machine should always be easy to view and simple to understand.
Of course, any elliptical machine should be comfortable to use. Both the pedals and the handlebars should operate smoothly without putting any undue strain on your lower back. Check that the length of the stride is comfortable for you and anyone else who is likely to use the machine at home. Some units accommodate only a stride length of 14 inches--too small for a tall man--while others are as long as 21 inches. A stride that is too short for you will make for an awkward, jerky ride. Unless you are familiar with a product after using it repeatedly either at a fitness center or a friend's house, we recommend you go to a retail store and get on the display model--and don't be embarrassed to bring a towel and a water bottle and give the equipment a real workout. This is an important investment, regardless of the price. If it's not right for you, you don't want to find out after you've set it up in the basement.
As with any home exercise machine, you want an elliptical machine that operates quietly and smoothly. Listen for even small, repetitive sounds when you test a unit. A noisy elliptical machine can upset family members or neighbors and even a minor but persistent squeak can drive you crazy over time, which might mushroom into yet another reason not to stick to your exercise schedule.
All elliptical machines carry some type of warranty against defects in workmanship. The time period covered can range from 90 days for parts and labor to a lifetime warranty on the frame. The first thing to wear out on an elliptical machine is often the magnetic resistance, so check to see how long that is covered by the manufacturer's warranty and consider investing in an extended warranty if one is offered. As a rule of thumb, the longer the warranty offered, the better the indication of quality in the construction of an elliptical machine.
When purchasing an elliptical machine, you will need to factor in the cost of delivery as well as the cost of extras and maintenance. You may need a rubber mat to protect flooring and make it easier to clean up after a strenuous workout. Once your equipment has been up and running for a while you'll likely also need to consider purchasing lubricants and cleaners to prolong the life of your elliptical machine and keep your exercise sessions running smoothly
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