Elliptical Trainers - Weight Loss Gimmick Or Fitness Super Machine?
I was surprised when I overheard someone refer to an elliptical trainer as a "weight
loss gimmick" but it got me think about the latest trends in fitness equipment. With so many "machines" being advertised on TV its no wonder we are becoming a bit jaded about what actually works and whats just a FAD.
More than anything common sense has to prevail. Its true that advertisers need to sell products and to do that they will do anything possible to make their products look good. As a consumer you need to be smart. Do you really think that a "machine" will give you perfect abs in just 5 minutes a day?
Coming back to elliptical trainers, I really don't see it as part of that genre. For me its on par with treadmills and in many ways its overtaken the popularity of treadmills in health clubs. The fact that is has very low impact and allows you a full body workout means that even people with major weight problems can use it.
In principal all fitness equipment should be seen as tools. Its a means to an end and in theory any machine can work. But, the machine is only one part of the equation and that's why some people feel scammed when they buy stuff on TV - they use it for a week and when they don't look like a super model its the machine's fault.
When used correctly, elliptical trainers can be fitness super machines. The cross training motion and the ability to change resistance levels makes it infinitely more versatile than a treadmill. You can get a full upper and lower body workout on just one machine. Best of all, its safe and with virtually zero direct impact on your joints it means a much more efficient workout.