Elliptical Trainers - Are They The Perfect Workout?
By Mike Singh
Editor's Summary: This a discussion of the merits of
using an elliptical training machine versus a treadmill. If you
are considering buying either of these exercise machines you won't
want to miss this discussion about the advantages and disadvantages
of using an elliptical training machine.
Elliptical trainers are the hottest of the hot in fitness equipment.
They are easy to use, and provide a great workout. Using an elliptical
machine will give you a great cardio workout, similar to that of
running, and will tone your lower body as well. And, because the
impact is less than that of walking, even those of us with not so
great knees can use an elliptical trainer without pain. Many people
are finding the elliptical trainer to be such a great workout that
they aren't interested in doing anything else. However, no one machine
can give the perfect workout. So, how does the elliptical machine
stack up against other ways of working out? Well, if you take a
closer look, you'll find that elliptical training has distinct advantages,
but a few disadvantages too.
One of the great benefits of elliptical trainers is that it provides
an aerobic workout through a weight bearing exercise. Running does
this, of course, but working out on an elliptical trainer provides
an impact to your joints comparable to walking. In addition, many
people report that working out on an elliptical trainer feels like
less work than working out on a treadmill. Plus, if you use the
upper poles on the elliptical machine, you are working your upper
body as well. With a treadmill, you get no upper body workout.
Serious Runners Take Note
But, what if you are training for a marathon? Here's where a treadmill
has a real advantage over the elliptical. If you are training to
be a runner, you need to run. The gliding motion of the elliptical
machine won't provide you training comparable to running in terms
of preparation for a race.
Another issue you should consider is your need to build muscle.
If you are looking to build bulk, you will still need to lift weights.
Elliptical trainers provide great cardio workouts, and are great
for toning your legs and arms, but they won't build bulk. For a
complete training regimen, it is best to alternate using the elliptical
trainer with weight machines and free weights a few days a week.
Impact Is Not All Bad
One final issue about elliptical trainers - the very thing that
makes them great also has its own disadvantage. Elliptical trainers
are so popular because they provide a low impact workout. But impact
has its advantages, especially if you don't have knee problems.
Your body responds to the shock of the impact of exercise by building
new bone cells, thereby increasing your bone density. So, if your
knees are healthy enough to withstand the impact, running will protect
your bone health in the long run.
The most important issue when it comes to any exercise is longevity.
You need to find an exercise that you can stick with. If you have
joint or knee problems, an elliptical trainer can allow you to workout
more easily than other weight bearing exercises. But, if you love
to run, and are healthy enough to do so, the elliptical trainer
might not be for you. It is beneficial to try out both machines,
and, if you're buying a machine, be sure to check out elliptical
trainer reviews as well as those on treadmills. Be assured that
both can help you improve your cardiovascular health, lose weight,
and gain overall fitness.
Mike Singh is a fitness instructor, who provides unbiased health
& fitness products reviews and elliptical
trainers reviews for consumers looking for quality information.
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