When choosing an upper body ergometer, look for adjustable height, speed and heart rate tracking, adjustable resistance, and wheelchair accessibility. Cheaper models may lack some features, but may be suitable if progress tracking or heart rate monitoring isn’t important.
An upper body ergometer is used in both gyms and rehabilitation clinics to provide general exercise and assess a person’s fitness level. When choosing the best upper body ergometer, you should look for a ergometer that has an adjustable height, can track your speed and heart rate, and can add or reduce resistance for easier or more difficult workouts. Wheelchair access is also important if you use a wheelchair or run a clinic or gym where many patients or members use wheelchairs.
Upper body ergometer units are generally set at a height that would fit the average height of a person. If you are above or below average height, using such an ergometer would be uncomfortable and could strain muscles that shouldn’t be used in ergometer-based exercises. An upper body ergometer that can be adjusted for various heights will be helpful if you are taller or shorter than most people, as it will provide a more comfortable workout.
Some of the cheaper upper body ergometer machines do not have a meter that shows the speed at which you are exercising. While these machines can still be used for a proper workout, it will be difficult to track your progress. These units tend to be cheaper, so it might be better to get a unit that lacks this feature if progress tracking isn’t very important to you. If you want to track your progress, it will be worth spending the extra money.
Heart rate tracking, especially if you’re running a rehab clinic, will be an important feature to look for in an upper body ergometer. Like tracking speed, this feature may or may not be included, usually depending on the price. Again, if knowing your heart rate isn’t necessary for your training style, then getting a cheaper unit may be better.
Upper body ergometer units come with a set resistance. If you find the standard resistance to be too strong or too weak, look for a unit that is adjustable to better suit your training needs. Units without the ability to change resistance will not be as effective for long term use.
Wheelchair accessibility is a feature commonly seen with upper body ergometers. These units usually do not have a chair bolted to the unit or a chair that can be easily removed so someone in a wheelchair can use the machine. Having a unit without a bolt-on chair will be easier to use, especially if the machine is for home use by a person in a wheelchair.
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