What’s an Elliptical Cross Trainer?

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An elliptical fitness trainer is a popular piece of aerobic training equipment that simulates walking or jogging without impact on joints. Features and prices vary, with more expensive machines having magnetized pedals and movable handles. Elliptical trainers have digital displays and heart rate monitors, and are a good option for a challenging workout with low impact on joints.

An elliptical fitness trainer, often referred to as simply the elliptical, is a piece of aerobic training equipment. The elliptical fitness trainer is often considered a cross between a treadmill and a stationary bike; one can stand on the machine and pump two pedals, which simulate walking or jogging without any impact on the joints. Elliptical machines are very popular for both home and gym use, and many have adjustable foot pedals to change stride length for different users.

Features vary on different elliptical machines, and they generally go hand-in-hand with price. An elliptical fitness trainer could work in one of two ways; In the simplest and least expensive way, the pedals are attached to a flywheel that rotates as the user exercises. The more expensive versions often feature magnetized pedals, eliminating the need for a flywheel, making this type of elliptical machine more durable and more expensive. Machines with a flywheel instead of magnets sometimes require manual adjustment to increase the tension.

An elliptical trainer for fitness training may have stationary or movable palm rests. Some have handles that can be moved back and forth while you exercise, to pump your arms and help raise your heart rate. Again, movable handles tend to be found on more expensive machines, while stationary palm rests can be found on less expensive versions. Heart rate monitors are often found on the palm rests as well; the user simply needs to grip the palm rest for approximately ten seconds to get a heart rate reading.

Most elliptical machines will now have a digital display where the user can make selections regarding stride difficulty and tension, and select a pre-made program or create their own. Another common feature is the ability to enter the machine’s height, weight, and age to then estimate the number of calories burned in an exercise session. More expensive elliptical trainer machines, particularly those found in gyms, often feature small individual televisions with headphone jacks on the machines for users to watch while exercising.

When using an elliptical trainer for fitness training, it is important to wear supportive shoes. One can walk forward, as in a normal walk, or reverse the step and go back, which uses different muscle groups. Elliptical machines can be a great option for those who want a challenging aerobic workout without a lot of impact on their joints.




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