Elliptical Trainers and Treadmills – A Comparison
If You Get Bored Easily While Working Out
Then the elliptical trainers have more to offer, and are becoming more and more popular because of their advanced features
While new treadmills have adjustable inclines, individually programmable workouts, and heart monitors, when it comes to advanced features they are still trailing elliptical trainers by a wide margin.
The most basic of elliptical trainers is still equipped with more features than the most advanced and expensive of treadmills. You can get more workout for your money by choosing an elliptical trainer.
If You Need To Drop Some Pounds In A Hurry
Treadmills provide a better workout for those who need to slim down in a relatively short time. Research has indicated (although it has recently been challenged) that working out on a treadmill will have you burning calories at a quicker rate than you would on an elliptical trainer.
Until the newer studies which conclude that elliptical workouts are as useful for burning calories as those on treadmills have been verified, treadmills still get the nod for those who are exercising to lose weight.
If You Are a Senior Citizen Or Recovering From a Joint Injury
You definitely should be using an elliptical trainer. Working out on an elliptical trainer will spare your joints all the jarring and pounding which comes with walking or running on a treadmill, and you’ll be able to exercise the muscles and joints in both your upper and lower body at the same time.
If You Want To Run Competitively
You will benefit most from a treadmill. Elliptical trainers simply can’t recreate the experience of running competitively the way treadmills can. Like apples and oranges, exercising on treadmills and elliptical trainers are both good for you, but in different ways.
If You Want A good Total Body Workout
For a great overall workout you should choose an elliptical trainers, which requires that you work both your lower and upper body throughout your entire routine. Both elliptical trainers and treadmills, however, will give you good cardiovascular benefits.
The bottom line on the differences between Elliptical trainers and treadmills is that either is great for working off excess pounds and improving your cardiovascular function, but the elliptical trainers offer full body workouts without stressing the joints the way treadmill exercise can.
So why not head for your local fitness center and give each one a try? It’s the only certain way to decide which one is the machine for you!
By: Jane A. Kirsten
About the Author:
Then the elliptical trainers have more to offer, and are becoming more and more popular because of their advanced features
While new treadmills have adjustable inclines, individually programmable workouts, and heart monitors, when it comes to advanced features they are still trailing elliptical trainers by a wide margin.
The most basic of elliptical trainers is still equipped with more features than the most advanced and expensive of treadmills. You can get more workout for your money by choosing an elliptical trainer.
If You Need To Drop Some Pounds In A Hurry
Treadmills provide a better workout for those who need to slim down in a relatively short time. Research has indicated (although it has recently been challenged) that working out on a treadmill will have you burning calories at a quicker rate than you would on an elliptical trainer.
Until the newer studies which conclude that elliptical workouts are as useful for burning calories as those on treadmills have been verified, treadmills still get the nod for those who are exercising to lose weight.
If You Are a Senior Citizen Or Recovering From a Joint Injury
You definitely should be using an elliptical trainer. Working out on an elliptical trainer will spare your joints all the jarring and pounding which comes with walking or running on a treadmill, and you’ll be able to exercise the muscles and joints in both your upper and lower body at the same time.
If You Want To Run Competitively
You will benefit most from a treadmill. Elliptical trainers simply can’t recreate the experience of running competitively the way treadmills can. Like apples and oranges, exercising on treadmills and elliptical trainers are both good for you, but in different ways.
If You Want A good Total Body Workout
For a great overall workout you should choose an elliptical trainers, which requires that you work both your lower and upper body throughout your entire routine. Both elliptical trainers and treadmills, however, will give you good cardiovascular benefits.
The bottom line on the differences between Elliptical trainers and treadmills is that either is great for working off excess pounds and improving your cardiovascular function, but the elliptical trainers offer full body workouts without stressing the joints the way treadmill exercise can.
So why not head for your local fitness center and give each one a try? It’s the only certain way to decide which one is the machine for you!
By: Jane A. Kirsten
About the Author:
You can also find more info on dog treadmill Aerobicsmachine.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about aerobics machine.
Elliptical Trainer Ratings
Buying an elliptical? You may want to look at several elliptical trainer ratings before buying to get an idea of which elliptical trainers are best for you.
Before you look at elliptical trainer ratings however, here are a few things you should know about how elliptical trainers are rated:
#1 Elliptical Trainers are Rated in Specific Price Groups
There are really 3 categories of elliptical trainers: Economy Buys, Mid-priced and Commecial Grade ellipticals.
Economy buys range from about $300 to $1000. Mid-priced ellipticals range from $1000-$2000. High End or Commercial elliptical trainers range from about $2200 and above.
When experts go to rate elliptical trainers they usually compare the elliptical trainers within price class.
So just because an economy elliptical trainer gets 5 stars and a mid-priced elliptical gets 4 stars, that doesn’t mean the economy elliptical is better than the mid-priced elliptical. It just means that compared to other economy elliptical trainers, that one is superior.
#2 Experts Value Elliptical Features Differently
Ever wonder why certain elliptical trainers get rated highly by some experts and not by others? It’s because different elliptical trainer raters value some features over others.
So for example, while Consumer Reports may give more weight to long warranties and stability, Consumer Guide may value smoothness of ride or ease of use.
It doesn’t mean one elliptical trainer is better than another – it could just mean they are rated using different criteria.
#3 Use Caution When Reading User Elliptical Ratings
In addition to expert elliptical ratings, there are also websites that allow people to write a personal review of their elliptical. While these can be helpful when shopping for an elliptical, be cautious of basing your decision just on these ratings.
Exercise equipment is big business and some companies are not above having one of their employees post negative reviews on their competitors.
Also, no one elliptical brand has a perfect track record – sometimes even the best brands make a dud. And those are usually the people that go online to post a negative review. Those people who are happy with their elliptical are less likely to post a comment.
Bottom Line? Take user ratings with a grain of salt and compare them to your own research when deciding on your elliptical trainer.
So those are three things to keep in mind when looking at elliptical trainer ratings. For a quick list of elliptical trainer ratings from Consumer Reports to Consumer Guide and more visit:
Elliptical Trainer Ratings
By: Kathryn ONeill
About the Author:
Before you look at elliptical trainer ratings however, here are a few things you should know about how elliptical trainers are rated:
#1 Elliptical Trainers are Rated in Specific Price Groups
There are really 3 categories of elliptical trainers: Economy Buys, Mid-priced and Commecial Grade ellipticals.
Economy buys range from about $300 to $1000. Mid-priced ellipticals range from $1000-$2000. High End or Commercial elliptical trainers range from about $2200 and above.
When experts go to rate elliptical trainers they usually compare the elliptical trainers within price class.
So just because an economy elliptical trainer gets 5 stars and a mid-priced elliptical gets 4 stars, that doesn’t mean the economy elliptical is better than the mid-priced elliptical. It just means that compared to other economy elliptical trainers, that one is superior.
#2 Experts Value Elliptical Features Differently
Ever wonder why certain elliptical trainers get rated highly by some experts and not by others? It’s because different elliptical trainer raters value some features over others.
So for example, while Consumer Reports may give more weight to long warranties and stability, Consumer Guide may value smoothness of ride or ease of use.
It doesn’t mean one elliptical trainer is better than another – it could just mean they are rated using different criteria.
#3 Use Caution When Reading User Elliptical Ratings
In addition to expert elliptical ratings, there are also websites that allow people to write a personal review of their elliptical. While these can be helpful when shopping for an elliptical, be cautious of basing your decision just on these ratings.
Exercise equipment is big business and some companies are not above having one of their employees post negative reviews on their competitors.
Also, no one elliptical brand has a perfect track record – sometimes even the best brands make a dud. And those are usually the people that go online to post a negative review. Those people who are happy with their elliptical are less likely to post a comment.
Bottom Line? Take user ratings with a grain of salt and compare them to your own research when deciding on your elliptical trainer.
So those are three things to keep in mind when looking at elliptical trainer ratings. For a quick list of elliptical trainer ratings from Consumer Reports to Consumer Guide and more visit:
Elliptical Trainer Ratings
By: Kathryn ONeill
About the Author:
Kathryn O’Neill is the chief editor for Elliptical Trainer Reviews, a consumer oriented website focusing on the home elliptical trainer market.
For the latest elliptical ratings, reviews and best buys visit http://www.EllipticalTrainerReview.com
Elliptical Trainers Vs Treadmill – Which One Is Best?
So which exercise machine is best: the treadmill or the elliptical trainer?
While treadmills are still the #1 piece of home exercise equipment, elliptical trainers are quickly catching up. This leaves many people wondering ‘Should I buy an elliptical trainer or a treadmill?’
While there are definite differences between the two, it really boils down to you – the buyer. This article lays out the benefits of both the treadmill and the elliptical so you can make an informed decision and choose the best machine for you.
Treadmill Benefits:
· Great for runners, walkers and joggers:
The treadmill is still the machine of choice for those who prefer running, jogging or even walking.
It’s obviously a smarter choice for the dedicated runner/jogger than an elliptical trainer. Plus it can help you train even in the winter months when you don’t want to run outside.
· Suitable for any exerciser:
Walking is a simple form of exercise that anyone can do – from beginner to seasoned athlete. It doesn’t take much coordination.
You don’t have to be supercoordinated to figure out how to use a treadmill whereas elliptical trainers can sometimes be a little tricky to use – especially for beginners.
· Provides workout variety:
A treadmill also provides workout variety of a different kind than the elliptical trainer. A treadmill allows you to walk, run, jog, walk uphill, do intervals and programs. You can even build in upper body handweights to work your arms, back and shoulders.
Elliptical Trainer Benefits:
· Lower impact on your joints than a treadmill:
What is interesting is that this lack of impact on the joints allows the user to burn roughly the same amount of calories as treadmills with the impression of putting out considerably less effort.
So you burn the same amount of calories while feeling like you did less work. (This is called the ‘Rate of Perceived Exertion’)
This lower impact also makes the elliptical trainer a great choice for those with knee or hip problems, the elderly or even rehabilitation patients.
· Provides an overall body workout:
With the dual-action upper body arms as well as the foot pedals, you are getting an overall total body workout. Whereas the treadmill mostly focuses on the lower body, the elliptical works your entire system for an overall cardiovasculer workout.
· Excellent workout variety:
One feature that is often overlooked on an elliptical is the opportunity to move in both a forward and backward direction.
When you go backward you are targeting a different set of muscles than when you go forward (hamstrings vs. quadriceps). This helps add variety to your workout and keeps you motivated.
So those are some advantages of both elliptical trainers and treadmills. Is one machine better than the other? It really depends on who you are and what YOU enjoy doing.
Here’s the bottom line:
If you enjoy using a specific exercise machine more than others, you will exercise more often – which means more calories burned, more weight lost and a better body achieved. That is the best exercise machine for you.
One final note: Remember that whichever machine you choose – with exercise equipment you basically get what you pay for. Many people buy cheap equipment and then pay for it later in the form of equipment repairs, joint problems and painful injuries. Make sure you buy a high quality brand name machine with a solid warranty that was built to last.
By: Kathryn ONeill
About the Author:
While treadmills are still the #1 piece of home exercise equipment, elliptical trainers are quickly catching up. This leaves many people wondering ‘Should I buy an elliptical trainer or a treadmill?’
While there are definite differences between the two, it really boils down to you – the buyer. This article lays out the benefits of both the treadmill and the elliptical so you can make an informed decision and choose the best machine for you.
Treadmill Benefits:
· Great for runners, walkers and joggers:
The treadmill is still the machine of choice for those who prefer running, jogging or even walking.
It’s obviously a smarter choice for the dedicated runner/jogger than an elliptical trainer. Plus it can help you train even in the winter months when you don’t want to run outside.
· Suitable for any exerciser:
Walking is a simple form of exercise that anyone can do – from beginner to seasoned athlete. It doesn’t take much coordination.
You don’t have to be supercoordinated to figure out how to use a treadmill whereas elliptical trainers can sometimes be a little tricky to use – especially for beginners.
· Provides workout variety:
A treadmill also provides workout variety of a different kind than the elliptical trainer. A treadmill allows you to walk, run, jog, walk uphill, do intervals and programs. You can even build in upper body handweights to work your arms, back and shoulders.
Elliptical Trainer Benefits:
· Lower impact on your joints than a treadmill:
What is interesting is that this lack of impact on the joints allows the user to burn roughly the same amount of calories as treadmills with the impression of putting out considerably less effort.
So you burn the same amount of calories while feeling like you did less work. (This is called the ‘Rate of Perceived Exertion’)
This lower impact also makes the elliptical trainer a great choice for those with knee or hip problems, the elderly or even rehabilitation patients.
· Provides an overall body workout:
With the dual-action upper body arms as well as the foot pedals, you are getting an overall total body workout. Whereas the treadmill mostly focuses on the lower body, the elliptical works your entire system for an overall cardiovasculer workout.
· Excellent workout variety:
One feature that is often overlooked on an elliptical is the opportunity to move in both a forward and backward direction.
When you go backward you are targeting a different set of muscles than when you go forward (hamstrings vs. quadriceps). This helps add variety to your workout and keeps you motivated.
So those are some advantages of both elliptical trainers and treadmills. Is one machine better than the other? It really depends on who you are and what YOU enjoy doing.
Here’s the bottom line:
If you enjoy using a specific exercise machine more than others, you will exercise more often – which means more calories burned, more weight lost and a better body achieved. That is the best exercise machine for you.
One final note: Remember that whichever machine you choose – with exercise equipment you basically get what you pay for. Many people buy cheap equipment and then pay for it later in the form of equipment repairs, joint problems and painful injuries. Make sure you buy a high quality brand name machine with a solid warranty that was built to last.
By: Kathryn ONeill
About the Author:
Kathryn O’Neill is the chief editor for Elliptical Trainer Review
For more elliptical buying tips, brand reviews, and best buys visit http://www.EllipticalTrainerReview.com
Reprint Rights: Feel free to reprint this article on your website or in your ezine as long as the ‘About The Author’ section is included and ALL LINKS ARE CLICKABLE
Elliptical Trainers – Are They Any Good?
Elliptical trainers are great tool for providing both a strength and cardio-vascular workout and offer a form of exercise that is easy to pick up and has great benefits. As an exercise equipment elliptical trainers are a relatively new cardiovascular machine. They combine a running or walking motion with a stair climbing motion. These machines feature pedals that can be moved either frontward or backward in a circular motion. Elliptical trainers are used for a whole body workout that usually works the larger muscle groups. Elliptical trainers are also known as cross trainers.
Elliptical trainers are an excellent selection if you have joint problems, because they provide a low impact yet efficient workout. There is actually some evidence that elliptical trainers provide more calorie burn for overweight people than treadmills and or stationary bicycles. When simulating walking or running, they reduce the pressure on joints to reduce the risk of injury. They provide an excellent workout for people wanting to tone muscle, increase strength, and maintain or improve cardiovascular fitness. They are also especially useful for those people that have problems that other fitness equipment like running machines can give.
When you use an elliptical trainer and you use the upper handle bars you are working your upper body areas as well. Compared to a treadmill, where there is no upper body work out. There are a number of variants of elliptical trainer those, all have a flywheel but the resistance comes in a couple of forms; Belt tension (usually on the cheaper models) and magnetic resistance on the better models. Magnetic tension is much smoother and quieter than the belt tension machine. Look for a machine that offers this feature at the push of a button. You don’t want to lose your momentum, while changing gear.
Elliptical trainers are great for improving balance and posture. By using the elliptical without holding onto the handgrips, the user can improve his or her motor fitness and balance. In this position, the core muscles are held in a state of constant tension.
By: Dave R Jones
About the Author:
Elliptical trainers are an excellent selection if you have joint problems, because they provide a low impact yet efficient workout. There is actually some evidence that elliptical trainers provide more calorie burn for overweight people than treadmills and or stationary bicycles. When simulating walking or running, they reduce the pressure on joints to reduce the risk of injury. They provide an excellent workout for people wanting to tone muscle, increase strength, and maintain or improve cardiovascular fitness. They are also especially useful for those people that have problems that other fitness equipment like running machines can give.
When you use an elliptical trainer and you use the upper handle bars you are working your upper body areas as well. Compared to a treadmill, where there is no upper body work out. There are a number of variants of elliptical trainer those, all have a flywheel but the resistance comes in a couple of forms; Belt tension (usually on the cheaper models) and magnetic resistance on the better models. Magnetic tension is much smoother and quieter than the belt tension machine. Look for a machine that offers this feature at the push of a button. You don’t want to lose your momentum, while changing gear.
Elliptical trainers are great for improving balance and posture. By using the elliptical without holding onto the handgrips, the user can improve his or her motor fitness and balance. In this position, the core muscles are held in a state of constant tension.
By: Dave R Jones
About the Author:
For more info about choosing elliptical trainers visit http://www.ellipticaltrainersonline.net
Elliptical Trainer Reviews – 3 You Should Definitely Consider
Elliptical Trainer Reviews: Lifecore Fitness LC-990
If you want an elliptical trainer of the same quality as those in your local fitness center without having to pay a commercial elliptical trainer price, the solidly constructed and durable Lifecore Fitness LC990 is the elliptical machine for you.
This machine can handle users weighing as much as three hundred and fifty pounds with no difficulty, and Lifecore is so sure of its capabilities that the Fitness LC-990 is backed with a lifetime guarantee on its frame and parts, and a five-year guarantee for everything else.
Priced at around $1500 (you can’t touch the commercial grade trainer seen in fitness centers for anywhere near that price), the Fitness LC-990 is not a machine meant to be moved from place to place. Its toughness is due in part to the weight of its components, so unless you have a place to put it permanently, you might want to consider a less substantial elliptical machine. But if you have a space for the Fitness LC-990, you won’t have to worry about looking for a replacement for a very long time.
Elliptical Trainer Reviews: The Proform 800
The Proform 800 is an elliptical trainer targeted at those fitness buffs who love lots of technological features. This machine can no only be connected to your PC; it will let you design a personalized workout routine and many of its users have likened it to having their own personal fitness trainers!
The downside of the Proform 800 is that, except for its technological bells and whistles, its early models did not utilize top of the line components. That flaw has been corrected, however, in the more recent versions of the Proform 800 elliptical trainers, which are also more durable.
The warranty on the Proform 800 leaves quite a bit to be desired. Because Proform offers only limited coverage for no more than two years, you might want to look for an alternative if you are a serious athlete who expects to use an elliptical regularly and intensely.
Elliptical Trainer Reviews: Sole E25
Inexpensive but well-designed and constructed, the Sole E25 elliptical trainer is a great entry level machine, with most of the features on higher-end ellipticals. And it has one feature which many of its more expensive competitors lack!
The Sole E25 has a longer stride than almost all other ellipticals, and it combines that generous stride length with an adjustable swing so that it is one of the most comfortable elliptical trainers you are likely to find.
The Sole E25 has neither the chest strap nor a few other minor features found on other machines, but the important ones are all there. You won’t find a better elliptical reviews in the same price range!
These elliptical trainer reviews should give you some idea of the most popular machines now available, but you should look for other reviews and take all the time you need to get informed on ellipticals before you decide to start shopping!
By: Jane A. Kirsten
About the Author:
If you want an elliptical trainer of the same quality as those in your local fitness center without having to pay a commercial elliptical trainer price, the solidly constructed and durable Lifecore Fitness LC990 is the elliptical machine for you.
This machine can handle users weighing as much as three hundred and fifty pounds with no difficulty, and Lifecore is so sure of its capabilities that the Fitness LC-990 is backed with a lifetime guarantee on its frame and parts, and a five-year guarantee for everything else.
Priced at around $1500 (you can’t touch the commercial grade trainer seen in fitness centers for anywhere near that price), the Fitness LC-990 is not a machine meant to be moved from place to place. Its toughness is due in part to the weight of its components, so unless you have a place to put it permanently, you might want to consider a less substantial elliptical machine. But if you have a space for the Fitness LC-990, you won’t have to worry about looking for a replacement for a very long time.
Elliptical Trainer Reviews: The Proform 800
The Proform 800 is an elliptical trainer targeted at those fitness buffs who love lots of technological features. This machine can no only be connected to your PC; it will let you design a personalized workout routine and many of its users have likened it to having their own personal fitness trainers!
The downside of the Proform 800 is that, except for its technological bells and whistles, its early models did not utilize top of the line components. That flaw has been corrected, however, in the more recent versions of the Proform 800 elliptical trainers, which are also more durable.
The warranty on the Proform 800 leaves quite a bit to be desired. Because Proform offers only limited coverage for no more than two years, you might want to look for an alternative if you are a serious athlete who expects to use an elliptical regularly and intensely.
Elliptical Trainer Reviews: Sole E25
Inexpensive but well-designed and constructed, the Sole E25 elliptical trainer is a great entry level machine, with most of the features on higher-end ellipticals. And it has one feature which many of its more expensive competitors lack!
The Sole E25 has a longer stride than almost all other ellipticals, and it combines that generous stride length with an adjustable swing so that it is one of the most comfortable elliptical trainers you are likely to find.
The Sole E25 has neither the chest strap nor a few other minor features found on other machines, but the important ones are all there. You won’t find a better elliptical reviews in the same price range!
These elliptical trainer reviews should give you some idea of the most popular machines now available, but you should look for other reviews and take all the time you need to get informed on ellipticals before you decide to start shopping!
By: Jane A. Kirsten
About the Author:
You can also find more info on best treadmills Aerobicsmachine.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about aerobics machine.
Elliptical Trainer vs Treadmill
You’ve Been a Dedicated Treadmill User For Years, Is It Time To Give The Elliptical Trainer A Try?
The treadmill has typically been the most popular piece of exercise equipment for both at home and in traditional gyms. Nevertheless, the recent popularity of the impact free elliptical trainer has given the treadmill a run for its money. Let’s examine the elliptical trainer versus the treadmill. How does it compare? What are the benefits of each? Is one better than the other?
Both the elliptical trainer and treadmill are great for beginners.
First off, both the elliptical trainer and the treadmill are excellent equipment for getting a great workout for your heart. The treadmill is terrific for beginners because you can start out at a slower pace and work your way up to a light jog and even a full out run.
Besides the speed, you can also adjust the treadmill’s incline giving you a greater workout of your hamstrings, quadriceps and gluteus.
The elliptical is also fantastic for beginners. Mimicking the same movement as walking, the elliptical trainer is easy to learn and use.
The elliptical trainer provides a low impact workout versus the treadmill.
The elliptical’s low impact movement makes it a great choice for anyone with joint, ankle, hip or back problems. The elliptical trainer is low impact because your feet remaining on the pedals throughout the movement, there is no impact on the ground. In fact, scientific research has proven that the elliptical trainer is a more favourable exercise for overweight patients or individuals with back, knee, or other lower leg limitations.
The treadmill is not considered a low impact exercise. Yes, the treadmill mat is less jarring than running on cement; however, your joints still absorb a significant amount of impact every time you step down onto the mat. In fact, on a treadmill, your body is absorbing up to two and half times your body weight.
The elliptical trainer versus the treadmill; both provide similar physiological benefits.
Research studies have proven that elliptical trainers and treadmills are virtually identical in terms of heart rate, perceived exertion and oxygen retention. 2 So, when evaluating the elliptical trainer versus the treadmill, you are getting the same quality cardiovascular exercise and training benefits no matter which machine you choose.
The elliptical trainer with handlebars provides a great cross training work out versus the treadmill.
The elliptical or oval shaped motion of the elliptical trainer mimics the normal motion of the foot, the extension of the leg and the rotation of the hip during walking or running. This elliptical motion uses all of your leg muscles, giving you a very effective lower body workout.
In addition to this fantastic lower body workout, an elliptical trainer with handlebars concurrently works your upper body. Approximately 30 percent of your upper body gets a workout. The treadmill only works the lower body. In fact, many treadmill users ‘cheat’ by hanging onto the handrail provided on the machine. Research shows that by hanging on, treadmill users are not burning as many calories and are creating an unnatural running stride.
Not only will get you get toned arms using an elliptical trainer versus the treadmill, but the arm action actually causes your heart rate to climb more quickly. In theory, this means you need less time to achieve more results.
If you are a runner, the treadmill allows you to mimic your outdoor running whereas the elliptical does not.
If you train for running events, then a treadmill is likely your preferred choice. The treadmill allows you to train indoors while performing the same exercise that you do outside. The elliptical trainer will give you an excellent workout, but may not prepare you as well as the treadmill does.
The elliptical trainer allows you to reverse direction whereas the treadmill does not.
When you’re at the gym, you may notice many elliptical users moving in the reverse direction. When you change from a forward movement to a backward movement, you are working different leg muscles. Using the elliptical trainer in both directions during a workout allows you to utilize and exercise all of your leg muscles.
No matter which piece of equipment you prefer, both the elliptical trainer and treadmill will help you build bone density, improve your cardiovascular health, increase your energy levels, and burn fat and calories. If you workout in a health club, try varying your cardio workout by using several different pieces of equipment. If you have a home based gym, try out both the treadmill and the elliptical trainer to determine which one you like the best.
By: Blake Bissaillion
About the Author:
The treadmill has typically been the most popular piece of exercise equipment for both at home and in traditional gyms. Nevertheless, the recent popularity of the impact free elliptical trainer has given the treadmill a run for its money. Let’s examine the elliptical trainer versus the treadmill. How does it compare? What are the benefits of each? Is one better than the other?
Both the elliptical trainer and treadmill are great for beginners.
First off, both the elliptical trainer and the treadmill are excellent equipment for getting a great workout for your heart. The treadmill is terrific for beginners because you can start out at a slower pace and work your way up to a light jog and even a full out run.
Besides the speed, you can also adjust the treadmill’s incline giving you a greater workout of your hamstrings, quadriceps and gluteus.
The elliptical is also fantastic for beginners. Mimicking the same movement as walking, the elliptical trainer is easy to learn and use.
The elliptical trainer provides a low impact workout versus the treadmill.
The elliptical’s low impact movement makes it a great choice for anyone with joint, ankle, hip or back problems. The elliptical trainer is low impact because your feet remaining on the pedals throughout the movement, there is no impact on the ground. In fact, scientific research has proven that the elliptical trainer is a more favourable exercise for overweight patients or individuals with back, knee, or other lower leg limitations.
The treadmill is not considered a low impact exercise. Yes, the treadmill mat is less jarring than running on cement; however, your joints still absorb a significant amount of impact every time you step down onto the mat. In fact, on a treadmill, your body is absorbing up to two and half times your body weight.
The elliptical trainer versus the treadmill; both provide similar physiological benefits.
Research studies have proven that elliptical trainers and treadmills are virtually identical in terms of heart rate, perceived exertion and oxygen retention. 2 So, when evaluating the elliptical trainer versus the treadmill, you are getting the same quality cardiovascular exercise and training benefits no matter which machine you choose.
The elliptical trainer with handlebars provides a great cross training work out versus the treadmill.
The elliptical or oval shaped motion of the elliptical trainer mimics the normal motion of the foot, the extension of the leg and the rotation of the hip during walking or running. This elliptical motion uses all of your leg muscles, giving you a very effective lower body workout.
In addition to this fantastic lower body workout, an elliptical trainer with handlebars concurrently works your upper body. Approximately 30 percent of your upper body gets a workout. The treadmill only works the lower body. In fact, many treadmill users ‘cheat’ by hanging onto the handrail provided on the machine. Research shows that by hanging on, treadmill users are not burning as many calories and are creating an unnatural running stride.
Not only will get you get toned arms using an elliptical trainer versus the treadmill, but the arm action actually causes your heart rate to climb more quickly. In theory, this means you need less time to achieve more results.
If you are a runner, the treadmill allows you to mimic your outdoor running whereas the elliptical does not.
If you train for running events, then a treadmill is likely your preferred choice. The treadmill allows you to train indoors while performing the same exercise that you do outside. The elliptical trainer will give you an excellent workout, but may not prepare you as well as the treadmill does.
The elliptical trainer allows you to reverse direction whereas the treadmill does not.
When you’re at the gym, you may notice many elliptical users moving in the reverse direction. When you change from a forward movement to a backward movement, you are working different leg muscles. Using the elliptical trainer in both directions during a workout allows you to utilize and exercise all of your leg muscles.
No matter which piece of equipment you prefer, both the elliptical trainer and treadmill will help you build bone density, improve your cardiovascular health, increase your energy levels, and burn fat and calories. If you workout in a health club, try varying your cardio workout by using several different pieces of equipment. If you have a home based gym, try out both the treadmill and the elliptical trainer to determine which one you like the best.
By: Blake Bissaillion
About the Author:
Blake Bissaillion is the author of http://www.building-muscle101.com/elliptical-trainer-reviews.html. Building Muscle 101’s Elliptical Trainer Reviews provides detailed and comprehensive elliptical trainer reviews of today’s top elliptical models. There are elliptical routines, advice, and information on elliptical exercise equipment.
Elliptical Trainers to Cut Your Body Shape and Reduce BMI
Elliptical trainers are known for their ability to burn calories while protecting joints, muscle and bones. They provide a whole body aerobic workout that no other piece of fitness equipment can match. Elliptical trainers are also used by weightlifters to increase their aerobic capacity and lower their BMI. In some dojangs, martial artists especially those practicing Tae Kwon Do use elliptical trainers to warm up with prior to forms or sparring.
Loss of Upper Body Strength
A major problem with most aerobic exercise including running is that it causes a loss of upper body strength and mass. Most long distance runner cannot even do one handstand pushup or even bench press their own body weight. Loss of mass is not a problem for someone who is trying to lose weight, however if you are into total body fitness like many weight lifters or martial artists this can be a serious problem. However if you are bulked up and need to cut your body shape, lower your BMI for a contest or a meet, using an elliptical trainer will certainly help. Using the upper body workout function of an elliptical cross trainer will allow you to reduce the body fat giving you a lean cut look and increase your speed but still allow you to stay strong.
Maintaining strength
It is best to use an elliptical trainer prior to conducting your normal workout. Spending 30 minutes on an elliptical trainer prior to heavy squats or benches will help you maintain your power level. Initially you may find that your maximum lifts are reduced by as much as 15 percent but this is temporary and in about two weeks your power levels should return to normal. It is not recommended that you do any aerobic training on your off days as this seems to reduce both strength and power on your heavy workout days.
Martial Arts
Elliptical trainers are great for warming up prior to performing martial arts. They increase your flexibility and speed as well as help protect you from injury. A short 5 minute workout on an elliptical machine prior to stretching will certainly help you perform crisp and tight forms. Joint injury during sparring sessions, especially knee injuries are common in martial arts. Using an elliptical trainer to stay warm and loose will certainly reduce your chance of injury. Staying loose will also increase your speed and control as well. Elliptical trainers can also help in injury recovery by keeping the injured joint loose and flexible.
Light weight machines are not for heavy weights
If you are a power or an Olympic style lifter you are probably carrying a lot of muscle mass. This means you have to use a quality elliptical trainer that can handle the weight. A cheap poorly constructed elliptial machine will not do the job. Generally that means using a commercial grade elliptical machine designed to handle at least 300 lbs. Even if you only weigh 175 lbs the high quality elliptical trainer will be more stable and handle the workout better. As far as elliptical trainers designed for home use you should consider only top end machine with designed for at least 275 lbs. These elliptical trainers are generally more stable and durable allowing you to do a more intense workout without fear of breakdown or injury. Researching elliptical trainer information will give you insights as to what the best choices and options are availble.
When used correctly elliptical trainers are great cross training tools for weightlifters and martial artist.
By: Jim Kesel
About the Author:
Loss of Upper Body Strength
A major problem with most aerobic exercise including running is that it causes a loss of upper body strength and mass. Most long distance runner cannot even do one handstand pushup or even bench press their own body weight. Loss of mass is not a problem for someone who is trying to lose weight, however if you are into total body fitness like many weight lifters or martial artists this can be a serious problem. However if you are bulked up and need to cut your body shape, lower your BMI for a contest or a meet, using an elliptical trainer will certainly help. Using the upper body workout function of an elliptical cross trainer will allow you to reduce the body fat giving you a lean cut look and increase your speed but still allow you to stay strong.
Maintaining strength
It is best to use an elliptical trainer prior to conducting your normal workout. Spending 30 minutes on an elliptical trainer prior to heavy squats or benches will help you maintain your power level. Initially you may find that your maximum lifts are reduced by as much as 15 percent but this is temporary and in about two weeks your power levels should return to normal. It is not recommended that you do any aerobic training on your off days as this seems to reduce both strength and power on your heavy workout days.
Martial Arts
Elliptical trainers are great for warming up prior to performing martial arts. They increase your flexibility and speed as well as help protect you from injury. A short 5 minute workout on an elliptical machine prior to stretching will certainly help you perform crisp and tight forms. Joint injury during sparring sessions, especially knee injuries are common in martial arts. Using an elliptical trainer to stay warm and loose will certainly reduce your chance of injury. Staying loose will also increase your speed and control as well. Elliptical trainers can also help in injury recovery by keeping the injured joint loose and flexible.
Light weight machines are not for heavy weights
If you are a power or an Olympic style lifter you are probably carrying a lot of muscle mass. This means you have to use a quality elliptical trainer that can handle the weight. A cheap poorly constructed elliptial machine will not do the job. Generally that means using a commercial grade elliptical machine designed to handle at least 300 lbs. Even if you only weigh 175 lbs the high quality elliptical trainer will be more stable and handle the workout better. As far as elliptical trainers designed for home use you should consider only top end machine with designed for at least 275 lbs. These elliptical trainers are generally more stable and durable allowing you to do a more intense workout without fear of breakdown or injury. Researching elliptical trainer information will give you insights as to what the best choices and options are availble.
When used correctly elliptical trainers are great cross training tools for weightlifters and martial artist.
By: Jim Kesel
About the Author:
James Kesel< MS. is the publisher of Elliptical Trainer Information website, We have information on Nautilus, Nordic Track, Life Fitness, ProForm, Tunturi, Schwinn, Reebok, Horizon, Vision elliptical trainers and cross trainers
Elliptical Trainer Safety: Protect What You Really Care About
You’ve spent a lot of time researching and shopping for your elliptical trainer. Now you’re ready to embark on your fitness plan and start seeing a new healthier and slimmer you. But before you take your first strides on your new elliptical trainer, please make sure you’ve covered all of the safety bases. Taking a few easy precautions now will save you a lot of potential aggravation as well as possible heartbreak down the line.
The things we care about in order of priority are our children, ourselves, and our property. Let’s take a look at each in order of importance:
1. Protect your children and your pets — elliptical trainers have moving parts that are exposed. In particular, the upper body handles, foot rails, and attachments to the drive assembly. The little fingers of a child can become pinched if trapped in any of these parts, especially where the upper body handles attach to the foot rails. No parent wants to confront such an accident to his or her child.
If you are fortunate enough to have set aside a dedicated exercise room you should invest in a locking door and keep it locked while the room is not in use. There may be other equipment in the room such as weights, dumbbells, and even exercise balls that small children should not be left alone with.
Some elliptical trainers come with locking mechanisms that prevent the arms and foot pedals of the trainer from moving. This is a good feature if you have children, but you should still make certain that your kids do not play on the elliptical trainer. People with children know that kids will always find new and imaginative ways to get hurt.
2. Protect yourself — it goes without saying that we want to get healthier by performing regular exercise. Afterall, that’s why you made the investment in your elliptical trainer. What we tend to forget is that sometimes our body can’t handle the extra demands we place on it.
Get cleared by your doctor before starting an exercise program. Many people think this doesn’t apply to them and instead choose to ignore the warning. Actually, it’s both a warning and good advice. Isn’t it better to have your doctor give you the green light to start an exercise program after performing a check up rather than not knowing your actual physical condition?
The important point to remember is to take things slow when first starting out. Especially if you’ve been inactive for a while. And if you feel at all uncomfortable then stop exercising immediately! Listen to your body. If things don’t feel right, then they probably aren’t!
Maintain your elliptical trainer. Elliptical trainers take a lot of stress and over time the nuts and bolts holding them together will begin to loosen. Once a month check the tightness of all nuts, screws, and bolts and retighten as necessary. Also inspect welds and bolts for any signs of weakness. Either order replacement parts or schedule a repair, either in or out-of-warranty, to replace any worn bolts or welds. Serious injury could result if a foot pedal bolt was to snap or an arm handle was to come loose while exercising.
3. Protect your property — the good news is that it’s quite easy and inexpensive to prevent damage to your home and your elliptical trainer.
Invest in an exercise equipment mat to place under your elliptical trainer. This will protect the carpet, linoleum, or hardwood flooring you’ve placed your elliptical trainer on. The rubber feet on the base of the machine will leave a black residue on the flooring over time. Many on-line fitness distributors offer mats either at a discount or even free with the purchase of an elliptical trainer.
After each exercise session be sure to wipe any sweat off the elliptical trainer including the console. Periodically wipe the entire trainer down with a solution of mild dishwashing soap and water.
Another great investment is in an elliptical trainer cover to keep the dust off between workouts. Though a bit more expensive than floor mats, an elliptical trainer cover will also keep pet hair off your elliptical and can also act as a deterrent for children who might want to play on the elliptical trainer.
These basic and inexpensive precautions will make your life with your new elliptical trainer both a safe and rewarding experience.
By: Rich Rojas
About the Author:
The things we care about in order of priority are our children, ourselves, and our property. Let’s take a look at each in order of importance:
1. Protect your children and your pets — elliptical trainers have moving parts that are exposed. In particular, the upper body handles, foot rails, and attachments to the drive assembly. The little fingers of a child can become pinched if trapped in any of these parts, especially where the upper body handles attach to the foot rails. No parent wants to confront such an accident to his or her child.
If you are fortunate enough to have set aside a dedicated exercise room you should invest in a locking door and keep it locked while the room is not in use. There may be other equipment in the room such as weights, dumbbells, and even exercise balls that small children should not be left alone with.
Some elliptical trainers come with locking mechanisms that prevent the arms and foot pedals of the trainer from moving. This is a good feature if you have children, but you should still make certain that your kids do not play on the elliptical trainer. People with children know that kids will always find new and imaginative ways to get hurt.
2. Protect yourself — it goes without saying that we want to get healthier by performing regular exercise. Afterall, that’s why you made the investment in your elliptical trainer. What we tend to forget is that sometimes our body can’t handle the extra demands we place on it.
Get cleared by your doctor before starting an exercise program. Many people think this doesn’t apply to them and instead choose to ignore the warning. Actually, it’s both a warning and good advice. Isn’t it better to have your doctor give you the green light to start an exercise program after performing a check up rather than not knowing your actual physical condition?
The important point to remember is to take things slow when first starting out. Especially if you’ve been inactive for a while. And if you feel at all uncomfortable then stop exercising immediately! Listen to your body. If things don’t feel right, then they probably aren’t!
Maintain your elliptical trainer. Elliptical trainers take a lot of stress and over time the nuts and bolts holding them together will begin to loosen. Once a month check the tightness of all nuts, screws, and bolts and retighten as necessary. Also inspect welds and bolts for any signs of weakness. Either order replacement parts or schedule a repair, either in or out-of-warranty, to replace any worn bolts or welds. Serious injury could result if a foot pedal bolt was to snap or an arm handle was to come loose while exercising.
3. Protect your property — the good news is that it’s quite easy and inexpensive to prevent damage to your home and your elliptical trainer.
Invest in an exercise equipment mat to place under your elliptical trainer. This will protect the carpet, linoleum, or hardwood flooring you’ve placed your elliptical trainer on. The rubber feet on the base of the machine will leave a black residue on the flooring over time. Many on-line fitness distributors offer mats either at a discount or even free with the purchase of an elliptical trainer.
After each exercise session be sure to wipe any sweat off the elliptical trainer including the console. Periodically wipe the entire trainer down with a solution of mild dishwashing soap and water.
Another great investment is in an elliptical trainer cover to keep the dust off between workouts. Though a bit more expensive than floor mats, an elliptical trainer cover will also keep pet hair off your elliptical and can also act as a deterrent for children who might want to play on the elliptical trainer.
These basic and inexpensive precautions will make your life with your new elliptical trainer both a safe and rewarding experience.
By: Rich Rojas
About the Author:
Rich Rojas writes unbiased Elliptical Trainer Reviews and articles on health, weight loss, and fitness at http://www.ellipticalhome.com
Elliptical Trainers and Sports Injuries
Elliptical trainers are not only good for keeping fit but they can also aid you in recovering from a sports injury. Recently while playing racket ball I sprained my knee and pulled one of my quads. I used the ice packs to get the swelling down but the stiffness started to be a problem. I needed to loosen things up but everything I was attempting resulted pain or discomfort. After about a week rest I got on my elliptical trainer and slowly began to work my knee and sore muscle groups.
I took it easy and only did a very slow 15 minute workout. Elliptical trainers are known for their ability to provide a total body workout without impacting joints, bones and muscle. This became very apparent as over the next several days I slowly began to get strength and flexibility back into my knee. I kept the workout sessions to less than twenty minutes. I also applied ice packs after each work out to control swelling. It was painful walking just after my injury but surprising it was less painful using the elliptical trainer.
If you already use an elliptical trainer on a regular basis then you are most likely physically fit and your recovery most likely will be rapid when compared to sedentary individuals. I must say that prior to using my elliptical trainer I called my friend who is an exercise physiologist and Physical therapist for advice. He spent about an hour with me to assure that I was exercising correctly. I would strongly suggest that you also consult a medical professional that practices sports medicine before jump on your elliptical trainer for a ride. Failure to do so could lead to a more serious condition or injury.
Again I think that the lack of impact to my knee during the therapy workout made all the difference. I must say that I think I am recovering fairly quickly. I think in about two weeks I may even be able to do some road work. I probably will hold off on that to reduce the risk of a reinjury. The elliptical trainer will provide just about the same fitness benefit while protecting my joints. I do miss my racket ball with friends but that will have to wait until next month. I am just glad that I have my elliptical machine to help me to recover.
By: Jim Kesel
About the Author:
I took it easy and only did a very slow 15 minute workout. Elliptical trainers are known for their ability to provide a total body workout without impacting joints, bones and muscle. This became very apparent as over the next several days I slowly began to get strength and flexibility back into my knee. I kept the workout sessions to less than twenty minutes. I also applied ice packs after each work out to control swelling. It was painful walking just after my injury but surprising it was less painful using the elliptical trainer.
If you already use an elliptical trainer on a regular basis then you are most likely physically fit and your recovery most likely will be rapid when compared to sedentary individuals. I must say that prior to using my elliptical trainer I called my friend who is an exercise physiologist and Physical therapist for advice. He spent about an hour with me to assure that I was exercising correctly. I would strongly suggest that you also consult a medical professional that practices sports medicine before jump on your elliptical trainer for a ride. Failure to do so could lead to a more serious condition or injury.
Again I think that the lack of impact to my knee during the therapy workout made all the difference. I must say that I think I am recovering fairly quickly. I think in about two weeks I may even be able to do some road work. I probably will hold off on that to reduce the risk of a reinjury. The elliptical trainer will provide just about the same fitness benefit while protecting my joints. I do miss my racket ball with friends but that will have to wait until next month. I am just glad that I have my elliptical machine to help me to recover.
By: Jim Kesel
About the Author:
James Kesel MS. is the publisher of Elliptical Trainer Information website, We have information on Nautilus, Nordic Track, Life Fitness, ProForm, Tunturi, Schwinn, Reebok, Horizon, Vision elliptical trainers and cross trainers
Elliptical Trainers – A Great Way to Get Back Into Shape
Elliptical trainers are becoming more and more popular in gyms. Because of the movement that they encourage in your body they are provide a very safe and risk free way of taking part in cardiovascular exercise. Elliptical trainers replicate a walking motion but because your feet are firmly placed on foot plates there is no impact at all on any of your joints. This makes the elliptical trainer ideal for people who have not trained for a long time or for people who are recovering from some form of injury.
Unlike treadmills and exercise bikes an elliptical trainer offers an all over body work out as your arms are permanently moving, very much like the action of a cross country skier. An all over body work out is a much more efficient work out as you will burn up to 50% more calories than if you purely exercise your lower body. The beauty of an elliptical trainer is that you can isolate your lower body and keep your upper body stationary buy holding the static hand holds. This may mean that you are burning fewer calories by isolating but the benefit to this is that you will be working your lower body and legs much harder.
An elliptical trainer has differing work levels that can be set by using the control panel that is situated in front of the user. By adjusting the work level you can increase the effort that you will need to use to move the foot plates, this works the muscles much harder and in turn works your heart harder meaning that you will burn more calories.
An elliptical trainer is a great way to help you stay in shape and burn calories. Used in conjunction with a sensible diet you will find that your weight soon starts drop and you will soon regain your figure. Elliptical trainers are not purely a commercial exercise machine; you can now get elliptical trainers which are designed for use at home. The home version of the elliptical trainer is usually a lighter weight version of the commercial gym machine as it will not have to withstand the work load of the gym version.
Buying a home elliptical trainer is a great way to stay in shape in the comfort of your own home; you can set your elliptical trainer up in front of the television and train away whilst you watch your favourite program. By training this way 2 – 3 times a week you will soon see a difference in your fitness level.
Elliptical trainers are a great way to help stay fit and to help regain fitness that you may have lost. With a sensible eating plan you will start to see results quite quickly into your training. If you have not taken part in any physical activity for a prolonged period of time you should consult your doctor before you start exercising.
By: Harwood E Woodpecker
About the Author:
Unlike treadmills and exercise bikes an elliptical trainer offers an all over body work out as your arms are permanently moving, very much like the action of a cross country skier. An all over body work out is a much more efficient work out as you will burn up to 50% more calories than if you purely exercise your lower body. The beauty of an elliptical trainer is that you can isolate your lower body and keep your upper body stationary buy holding the static hand holds. This may mean that you are burning fewer calories by isolating but the benefit to this is that you will be working your lower body and legs much harder.
An elliptical trainer has differing work levels that can be set by using the control panel that is situated in front of the user. By adjusting the work level you can increase the effort that you will need to use to move the foot plates, this works the muscles much harder and in turn works your heart harder meaning that you will burn more calories.
An elliptical trainer is a great way to help you stay in shape and burn calories. Used in conjunction with a sensible diet you will find that your weight soon starts drop and you will soon regain your figure. Elliptical trainers are not purely a commercial exercise machine; you can now get elliptical trainers which are designed for use at home. The home version of the elliptical trainer is usually a lighter weight version of the commercial gym machine as it will not have to withstand the work load of the gym version.
Buying a home elliptical trainer is a great way to stay in shape in the comfort of your own home; you can set your elliptical trainer up in front of the television and train away whilst you watch your favourite program. By training this way 2 – 3 times a week you will soon see a difference in your fitness level.
Elliptical trainers are a great way to help stay fit and to help regain fitness that you may have lost. With a sensible eating plan you will start to see results quite quickly into your training. If you have not taken part in any physical activity for a prolonged period of time you should consult your doctor before you start exercising.
By: Harwood E Woodpecker
About the Author:
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Harwood E Woodpecker.