subject: Elliptical Machine Benefits - Is An Elliptical Right For You? [print this page] Considering an elliptical machine? Wondering how an elliptical can benefit you?
This article will give you several unique benefits of working out with an elliptical trainer. If you're trying to decide between an elliptical and another piece of exercise equipment, here are some unique elliptical benefits:
Low Impact:
Recently my 60-year-old mother tried my elliptical trainer and she couldn't beleive how easy it felt on her joints (she's a regular treadmill user).
Elliptical workouts are safe on the joints and provide a low impact workout (as opposed to a treadmill where you feet hit the deck with every step). This is ideal for people with back, knee, hips and joint problems as well as those people looking for a low-impact workout.
Weight-Bearing Exercise:
While using an elliptical machine gives you a low-impact workout, the resistance exercise still helps to build bone density and fight off osteoporosis.
As well, weight bearing exercise helps you burn calories much more efficiently (and keeps your calorie burn high for several hours after a workout).
Saves Time
Because most ellipticals have upper body arms, elliptical workouts tend to involve the whole body and give you an overall better workout - meaning you burn more calories in less time. That's always a benefit.
Elliptical crosstrainers have also been proven to offer a lower 'Perceived Rate of Exertion' when working out. This means that you're doing more work and burning more calories while feeling like you put out less effort.
Fights Boredom & Great For Crosstraining
Because ellipticals are a mix between the treadmill and a stair climber you have a great opportunity to cross-train.
I was actually shocked when, after using my elliptical for a month, I could easily climb a very steep hill that had almost wiped me out before. My fitness level had improved and I didn't even know it.
Plus, you can pedal backwards on an elliptical as well as adjust your incline to work different sets of muscle groups for even more crosstraining effects. That means more optimal workouts and more calories burned!
Save Space
Most elliptical machines are smaller than a treadmill and can be more easily moved to clean or to store away when company is coming.
If you're cramped for space or have a smaller home gym, an elliptical trainer can be a great way to save space while getting an overall body workout
So those are some of the best benefits of using an elliptical.
While they may not be right for everyone, if you're looking for a low impact workout, a chance to burn more calories in less time and a way to crosstrain, an elliptical trainer may be the right choice for you.
