Elliptical Cross Trainers
These newer machines were introduced in health clubs in 1995, where they have become very popular. Home versions began appearing in 1997, and are now available at a wide range of prices with a wide range of features. Elliptical trainers offer a no-impact aerobic workout. It is a hybrid between four different exercise machines: a treadmill, stair climber, stationary bike, and skier. You stand on the machine, placing your feet on special foot platforms. Depending on the machine and how you adjust it, you can run or walk in an elliptical motion. On some machines you can even do those movements backwards. This may sound complicated, but good versions of the machines actually are easy to learn to use. An "ellipse" is an oval shape, and this roughly describes the path of your feet as they rise going forward, then sink as they move behind your body. When you run or walk, your feet begin to create an ellipse, but the motion is stopped when your feet hit the gound or the treadmill belt. The Elliptical cross trainer allows your feet to complete their oval path without impact. By contrast, on a stationary bike, your feet go in a circle, on a stair climber they go up and down. The motion on an elliptical trainer is in between. Some of the newer high quality elliptical Cross Trainers now offer a Total body workout by incorporating upper body arms that tone and sculpt the biceps, triceps, chest, back, shoulders, abdominals and obliques (love handles)
Prices: The most popular price levels are between $500 and $1500, but prices can also reach over $5000.
Elliptical Trainer Styles: The machines on the market now are by no means all alike. The shapes of the ellipses vary. As mentioned, some allow backward motion; others don't. Some feature independent action, others have dependent action (in which the force of one foot drives the other). Some feature variable resistance for the lower body; others don't offer this feature. Some have movable bars with hand grips to help work the upper body. Some machines have an adjustable ramp which allows the user to concentrate on different leg-muscle groups.
Using Elliptical Trainers: These machines have become very popular in health clubs, perhaps in part because they are new and therefore seem fun. Their versatility is appealing since you can change your pace and stride easily in the middle of a workout.
Elliptical trainers provide non-impact exercise that can range from fairly easy to quite strenuous. Beginners may be intimidated at first but good elliptical trainers are appropriate for all fitness levels. As a home machine, their versatility may be an advantage if more than one person will be using the equipment. |
