Elliptical Machines

Are Used Elliptical Machines Worth It?

2010-04-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

Used elliptical machines are like most other used pieces of exercise equipment. Some are great deals and some are great busts. If you're not careful you'll just be throwing your money away.

I prefer to buy new equipment for one simple reason. I don't know how well maintained a piece of used equipment is. Sure, some elliptical machines have been well taken care of but others have been abused.

You definitely want to make sure all the parts are in working order and that the machine is still very stable. An unstable elliptical will be both ineffective and unsafe.

The elliptical price tag has dropped considerably in recent years. That's probably reason enough to look at new ones first!

Elliptical Machines Provide Low Impact, Total Body Workouts That Even The Novice Can Benefit From

2010-04-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

Elliptical machines offer some great benefits for your aerobic workout. Read about some of them in this article:

Ever since their introduction several years ago, Elliptical Machines have become increasingly popular and more technically advanced. Surveys will indicate that as much as six million people prefer elliptical machines as their choice for home exercise equipment.

If you are looking for an effective and thorough indoor workout, than look no further than an elliptical machine. There are many benefits with having ellipticals, one of them is when you use one, you will notice how impact free your workout will be.

Also a total body workout on one of these machines is challenging enough for serious athletes but at the same time safe enough for beginners and even mothers to be.

Of course, like with any physical activity, expert advise should be sought from your doctor before the use of any exercise equipment.

With the elliptical machine, there is no impact on the ground, so lower body joints are free from abuse you may get with other workout machines.

Exercising with the elliptical, you are sure to get an excellent cardiovascular workout with maximum efficiency. Most of these machines will give you a total body workout, if your machine has dual action handlebars for your arms and foot pedals for your legs.

The Elliptical Vs The Treadmill? Which one is the leader of the pack?

"According to studies, if you exercise on an elliptical machine, the impact on the joints is low or it has no impact and the user will burn roughly the same amount of calories as more strenuous machine like a treadmill. So you get the same results for less effort."

Many of these activities sometimes involve vigorous movement of the bones and muscles and can inflame old injuries and maybe cause new ones. The joints that are commonly affected by an impact form of exercise are usually the knees, ankles, hips and back.

These little statistics probably tells us the reason why elder exercisers with knee problems and rehabilitating users go for an elliptical machine rather than a more vigorous machine like a treadmill. Here are a few of the benefits an elliptical offers:

Research has shown, to maintain healthy bone density, it is necessary to take part in weight-bearing activities such as running, squash, football, and other sports where you remain on your feet.

Elliptical workouts may not seem to be routines that are as beneficial as more strenuous, high impact ones on a treadmill. But in actual fact, the whole routine is a weight bearing activity, as your feet are placed on two pedals throughout the workout. So as well as avoiding the toil that comes with a treadmill routine, it is also good for bone density.

Women that are pregnant, those that suffer from arthritis, and recovering accident victims often require a low impact routine, and that is exactly what the elliptical machine provides.

The oval pedaling motion of the machine, as you step up and down on the pedals or platforms, is smooth and flowing. Interestingly. this motion follows same type of elliptical movement that the human foot follows when we walk or run.

Although the movement created is similar to these activities, all the strain and vigorous action associated with them is taken away. The beauty is in the simplicity, your feet never leave the footpad, as well as this being a safer workout, it reduces the stress on your joints..

The elliptical motion feels natural and is easy to sustain. You will find that elliptical machines compliment and enhance normal body movements, making your workouts feel less exertive and more penetrative. Focusing on particular and general muscle groups and giving you an extensive overall body workout.

Studies have also shown that ellipticals work the cardio muscles and burns calories on the same par as Treadmills if not greater, as well as stair steppers. The added bonus is that it feels alot easier to use an elliptical.

The elliptical has some truly unique features, setting it apart fom its rivals. A good feature that an elliptical has over some machines is the variety it adds to the workout. One of the biggest challenges that you as a user faces is to stay motivated and interested in your training program.
With the dual action handlebars we mentioned earlier, the exerciser can choose the option of not using them and focusing just on the lower body. With the precor models, it is possible to change the the cross ramp incline as well as varying the intensity.

However, there is a feature on these machines that seperates the elliptical trainer from many other exercise machines when it comes to variety. That feature is the forward and reversible feature on the foot pedals. Most elliptical machines have a setting allowing you to "go backwards" and work additional muscles that very many other exercise workouts do not target. The fact that you are standing and walking or running in place, the leg muscles as well as those in your buttocks, back, and abdomen are worked effortlessly.

Many ellipticals will allow you to adjust the resistance and change the incline. These adjustments are increased at your own convenience and allow you to gradually increase the resistance and continuously challenge your limits.

Recommended top five elliptical machines to buy.

Precor - Although Precor is generally known for it's commercial machines in gyms all over the world, they also make some less-expensive trainers for the home exerciser. They can be quite pricey, starting from $2,000 and upwards, however, the quality you get makes up for the cost. What sets them apart is that Precor machines have adjustable ramps, they are sturdy and well built, with which cheaper trainers cannot compete.

ProForm 700 - This trainer features dual-action engineering. In real terms, it's got arm handles to work both your upper and lower body at the same time. At around $400, it's a good buy and includes iFit.com technology so you can hook it up to your computer for new workouts. You also get 6 workouts for maximize calorie burning.

Nordic Track Elliptical - This one is very competitively priced, at around $700. For your moneu you get 6 different exercise programs, Custom Stride pedals, iFit.com technology, and magnetic resistance. You also get dual action arm handles, a book and water bottle holder and an exceptionally quiet workout. Similar to the ProForm above, except for the adjustable stride...which is excellent if more than one person will be using it.

Reebok Elliptical Trainers - Like the other trainers listed here apart from the precor, the Reebok Elliptical offers dual arm and leg movement and comes pre-programmed with various workouts. Between $400 and $500, this is a good choice for someone on a budget, although you will not get some of the extras offered by other trainers.

Fitness Quest Eclipse 4000 - The eclipse offers a smooth, workout with an electric magnetic system. A nice little bonus is that it has arm handles through which the heart rate is measured for ease of use. Also features reverse motion and programs that cover all fitness goals from fat burning to cardiovascular routines.

Vanessa Cane is A Freelance Writer For 1st-For-Exercise-Equipment.com. You Can Find Lots Of Useful Information About All Kinds Of Exercise Equipment, Including Treadmills And Elliptical Machines.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Vanessa_Cane

Elliptical Machines For Endorphins

2009-09-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Having you ever thought of using one of the newer elliptical machines for endorphins? You've probably thought of using an elliptical trainer for other reasons but not this one!

Maybe you're more interested in one of these benefits:

weight loss
lower cholesterol
stronger skeletal system
greater flexibility in the joints
better posture

Those are all good reasons but don't forget that getting exercise on an elliptical trainer will also cause the release of hormones known as endorphins. These are chemicals produced by your body that will elevate your mood.

That's right they are natural anti-depressants! So if you're feeling a little down us one of the newer elliptical machines for endorphins. You'll feel better.

Cheap Elliptical Machines

2009-09-11T09:58:00.000-07:00

Cheap elliptical machines are available in discount stores and online. But you need to be very careful when making such a purchase. Ellipticals have evolved tremendously since they first came on the fitness scene
several years ago.

They are actually very complex machines with intricately moving parts. Proper design and solid construction is essential. The knock-off brands may look like they offer the same product as the the well-known exercise equipment manufacturers. But there is a reason their products are so much less expensive.

I'm not saying you have to buy a top of the line commercial grade machine in order to improve your health and fitness. But if you want your elliptical trainer to last you will need to spend a little money.

Even if you need to stick with the less expensive models from the companies with good reputations you are likely to get an elliptial machine that will:

Have adequate display information for good workouts.
Last years withou needing parts replaced.
Remain stable and quiet while you use it.

So here's my advice:

Avoid the real cheap elliptical machines.
Purchase the highest quality machine you can afford.
Set up your elliptical where it is convenient to use.
Use your elliptical regularly to improve the health of your heart and the flatness of your belly!

Best Elliptical Machines

2009-09-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Are the best elliptical machines all over $2000? Certainly you can get some very nice features if you purchase one of these high-end models. And many people see this purchase as a long-term investment in their health and are willing to spend this much.

After all, regular use of an elliptical could help save some money on medical and pharaceutical bills in the future!

But most people would like to stay well beneath the $2000 mark. And you really can get one of the best elliptical machines on the market today without giving up groceries for six months!

However, with so many choices available today you might not know where to start. Should you go to a department store or a sporting goods store? I would suggest you consider a third option:

You really can't beat shopping for the best elliptical machines online!

In addition to saving on gasoline you will save a great deal of time and you will be able to find much more information online than you can from a sales person in a store. Many online retailers will offer free shipping and a free in-home trial.

The bottom line is that you will save money when you purchase one of the best elliptical machines online.

But don't forget to use your elliptical regularly after you do your research and make your purchase.

Quiet Elliptical Machines

2009-09-07T08:59:00.000-07:00

The quiet elliptical machines are often the best-built ellipticals. I've been on some elliptical trainers that sounded like they were going to fall apart beneath me while I was trying to work out.

The noise of these machines is coming from parts of the machine moving that should be stable. All parts of the machine should be stable while you are moving your arms and legs.

Here are some distinct advantages to purchasing a quiet and solidly built piece of exercise equipment:

Non-user friendly. Whether the people around you are trying to sleep, read, relax, or exercise themselves, they will appreciate one of the quiet elliptical machines much more than a noisy one.

Safer. This may be one of the most important features of a well-built elliptical trainer. Serious injury could result if one of these unstable parts were to ever come completely loose.

Longer training sessions. You are much more likely to remain on a machine that is quiet and stable. A rickety machine gives you an unpleasant feeling and tends to cut short your exercise session. Staying on your elliptical longer will mean more calories burned and enhanced cardiovascular fitness.

Just remember that after you purchase one of the top quiet elliptical machines you must use it regularly to reach your health and fitness goals!

Advantages of Elliptical Machines

2009-09-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

There are several advantages of elliptical machines for you to be aware of as you consider purchasing one for your personal use. When ellipticals entered the fitness world several years ago they represented a major breakthrough in aerobic exercise equipment.

The advantages of elliptical trainers include:

Low impact. Because your feet never leave the exercise surface there are no jarring movements to cause injury to joints, especially the knees,back, hips, and ankles. In fact this is what causes most people to use elliptical machines instead of treadmills.

Weight bearing. While staionary bikes are low impact they are do not help strengthen your bones by being weight-bearing. Ellipticals, on the other hand, offer the same bone-strengthening advantages as running.

Upper-body. Many elliptical trainers come equipped with dual moving handlebars which are moved by the arms simultaneously with the gliding motion of the lower body. This provides a great workout for the chest, back, shoulders, biceps and triceps. The net effect of this coordinated movement is that more calories are burned.

But if your elliptical doesn't get used it doesn't matter how many advantages elliptical machines have. So after you purchase your elliptical use it regularly to keep your muscles toned and your abs flat!

How To Buy Elliptical Machines

2009-09-03T02:35:00.000-07:00

Home gyms are very popular with people trying to lose weight, keep it off, and stay healthy. Buying one of the elliptical machines that are easily available online with free shipping is a great first step for your new or existing home gym.

You don't have to break the bank in order to purchase a high quality elliptical. But you probably should avoid the cheapest of the elliptical trainers as well. Always check the warranty and make sure it is sufficient. The major manufacturers will usually stand behind the quality of their elliptical machines.

Here are some important considerations in selecting your elliptical:

Size: Check the dimensions with the space available in your home gym.

Workouts:The machine you are looking at should have pre-programmed and manual courses. Later on you will appreciate the variety in your workouts.

Display: These can be simple or quite complex. Basic displays will show time, speed, and distance. More advanced ones will can provide information such as heart rate and calories burned.

The important point to remember is: Use your elliptical regularly!

Elliptical Machines

2009-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Elliptical Machines site. Ellipticals are one of the safest and most effective ways to:

lose weight
manage your weight
increase your cardiovascular fitness
strengthen your bones
enhance your flexibility
manage stress

There are various kinds of elliptical machines offered by several of the top manufacturers of exercise equipment. Most of these are very high quality and will help you reach your goals. Just remember, buying your elliptical machine is only the first step. You must use it regularly if you want to have a flat belly and a healthy heart.

So here are the steps to using any one of the elliptical machines on the market today for a leaner and healthier body:

Purchase your elliptical.
Use your elliptical at least 3 times/week.
Stick to a healthy diet.
Drink plenty of water.
Get plenty of sleep.

Elliptical Machines Privacy Policy

2009-08-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

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