Friday, January 25, 2008
Abdominal Exercise Machines Can Work For You Too
Our bellies can cause us a great deal of grief. So much emphasis is placed on having a trimmed mid-section that if you have an extra little pouch of fat there, you feel very self-conscious about it. Using one of the abdominal exercise machines that are available may work but it's really dependent on one factor.
That factor is whether or not you are willing to make a life change. Losing weight isn't about doing an occasional abdominal exercise on an abdominal machine. It's about changing your diet, your physical activity level on a regular basis and making some important lifestyle changes. If you use an abdominal machine but continue to drink sugar laden soda and eat potato chips, your belly isn't going anywhere.
There are many choices when it comes to increasing your fitness level. If you've never really exercised much in the past, you probably don't want to jump into using one of the abdominal exercise machines at your local gym. The reason is that your body isn't going to react well and you can seriously hurt yourself. Walking is a great way to warm up before attempting any abdominal exercise.
Some people who are overweight are embarrassed to go to the gym to work-out. They feel self-conscious about putting on work-out gear and sweating in front of strangers. The thing to remember is that everyone is there for the same reason and that's to get in better shape. Most people at the gym are so focused on what they are doing, that they don't give you a second thought or look.
When I was looking for some exercise equipment recently I decided to visit the gym to get a look at what was out there and more importantly to give it a try to see if it was something I'd enjoy. They had treadmills, elliptical machines and several different abdominal exercise machines. I experimented with several and soon realized that if nothing else they were really effective. I could feel my abs burning after just a few minutes on the machine.
I checked out prices on the Internet and then finally decided on a model that fit both my fitnessabdominal exercise machines are doing the same job as sit-ups, I'd say my newly trimmed and toned tummy is proof that's not true. level and my budget. I've been using it for a few months and can see some results. I even feel better when I look in the mirror. Although some people might tell you that
Elliptical Machine - Secret Tips On How To Lose Weight Fast With Precor
Secret Tip One On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
So you want to have your plate of food and eat it too? That is quite possible if you rev up your metabolism with cardio conditioning and aerobic training. An Elliptical Trainer, such as a Precor EFX Elliptical Cross Trainer, is a natural choice in this regard. The specialized elliptical motion of Precor Fitness Equipment is a huge improvement on joint-jarring, jolting jogging sessions. The low-impact Precor Elliptical Machine also protects your lower back from injury or strain.
Secret Tip Two On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
The Cross Training handlebars that are added to the Elliptical Trainer's motion, allow you to get into a higher gear from the word go. By recruiting all the muscles in the chest, back and arms, you are actually multi-tasking while on this fitness machine! This aspect makes a workout on a crosstrainer much more effective than a session on a Precor treadmill. You will experience a total body workout, instead of focusing only on the lower body. A session on a Precor in fact combines exercise on a stair stepper, treadmill, rowing machine, and ordinary elliptical trainer. You will up your heart rate at a fast clip, and experience the resultant calorie-incinerating fat-burning tempo.
Secret Tip Three On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
The CrossRamp technology incorporated into Precor fitness equipment further enhances the calorie burning capacity of this elliptical crosstrainer. You have the elliptical foot movement that is designed to keep your joints perfectly aligned. In addition, the CrossRamp engineering changes the elliptical path, thus bringing different muscle groups into play. By working as many muscles as possible, you are enhancing the effect on your metabolism. Working to create a revved up metabolism is one of the top tips on how to lose weight fast naturally and permanently.
Secret Tip Four On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
With the Precor Elliptical Trainer's lower impact comes ease of use, which enables you to exercise at a more intense level for a longer period. The smooth, fluid action of this machine, and the fact that the workout is supremely low-impact, alters your perception of the exertion involved. This means that you will be able to keep going, and going, and going… By lengthening your workout session, your weight loss tempo will be greatly enhanced.
Secret Tip Five On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
A Precor Elliptical Trainer also offers a huge range of resistance levels, that you can adjust to increase both intensity and strength building. These challenging levels will help you to build muscle bulk, while losing fat. The increase in muscle power will add another enhanced calorie-burning slant to your muscle fitness regimen, as this enables your metabolism to function more effectively. You will be losing centimeters where it matters. Isn't that exactly what you are hoping for when you reach for a weight loss pill? If you reach this goal with the help of Precor, the results are much more likely to be sustainable.
Secret Tip Six On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
This elliptical cross trainer also offers both forward and reverse movement. This again brings different muscles into play. This aspect also adds to the calorie-burning effectiveness of the elliptical trainer. The Precor Elliptical display screen spews enough feedback to fill you up without touching food! This includes the feedback from the Precor heart rate monitor.
Secret Tip Seven On How To Lose Weight Fast With A Precor Elliptical Machine
With six brilliant programs, a machine such as the 5.2Li EFX Precor Elliptical Cross Trainer gives you all the tools you need to successfully follow through on all your fitness and weight loss efforts. Every aspect is covered, including crosstraining, glutes, weight loss, interval, heart rate, as well as a manual program for individual goals and needs.
Precor exercise equipment of course also include the Precor Professional Treadmill line, Precor Rowing Machines, Precor Exercise Bikes, and the Precor Stretch Trainer C240i. The company also offers strength training fitness equipment. However, if you are looking for a tip on how to lose weight fast naturally and permanently, your best bet would probably be to opt for the efficiency of the Precor EFX Crosstrainer range.
If you shop around, you may even be lucky enough to locate a discount elliptical precor or an elliptical precor at a wholesale price. If you decide to go for a used or refurbished Precor Elliptical, make sure that you buy from a reputable dealer, who will be able to help you with Precor parts if necessary. The performance of commercial consumer ellipticals versus Precor products often lead to a heated debate, but Precor is a quality range with good backup and extensive warranties.
Why not forget about drugs like Clenbuterol for weight loss and all the other weight loss pills? Adopt a safe, long-term, sensible and balanced diet and nutrition program where you don't have to feel deprived, don those Puma Speed Cat Shoes and start cementing a firm friendship with a Precor Elliptical Machine.
Commercial Elliptical Machines vs Home Elliptical Trainers
As a health buff, you may know a lot about personal exercise machines. But once you've decided that you want to put up your own gym, are you confident that you know everything you need to know about commercial elliptical machines?
Commercial elliptical trainers are distinctly different from home trainers. The one major difference is that they are a lot sturdier than personal machines. This is due to the fact that they were created to withstand repeated use, and accommodate different needs of different body types. It's mainly because of this durability that commercial machines cost considerably more than personal machines.
When exercise gear comes with the label "commercial grade," you can trust that it comes with a lot of features you can't find on home equipment. Home trainers are basic and affordable, perfect for just one person's use and budget. But commercial grade machines come packed with other features, and are especially engineered for long-term use. What you pay for in a commercial grade machine is basically how long it will last. The speed and tension controls on commercial machines are also generally more flexible. This is so that different people, even people with delicate constitutions, can use your cardio workout machines with comfort and ease.
Generally, you don't need to purchase expensive trainers if you're just going to buy one for your personal use, or even your family's exclusive use. But make no mistake, some trainers are more expensive than others for a good reason. Basic trainers may have all the fundamental functions, but they may also be inflexible and hard to use for all body types – for example, the tension on the ramp may be inflexible and would bulk up one's muscles instead of simply toning them. More costly home trainers simply have more value. If you need an extra heart rate monitor, you don't need to look at commercial trainers for that! There are affordable home trainers that have that too.
Commercial elliptical trainers however are more competitive. Models compete with each other in terms of not just price, but functionality and durability. It's not a matter of how cheap you can get it for, but how long and how hard it can work in building your gym's reputation! If you're a serious gym owner, you should look at different models for each type of exercise gear, so that you could decide which commercial models will be wise to invest on.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Best Elliptical Machine Shopping Tips
If you're only just thinking about some type home fitness equipment but haven't decided what kind, seriously consider an elliptical trainer. You can find low cost or cheap elliptical machines with just a little bit of research online. Many of the consumer models found in sporting good stores and retail stores can only handle users weighing no more than 250 lbs and cost about $1000 or less.
So when you go shopping for a machine, do you want to buy something expensive or do you want a low cost or discounted elliptical machine? Because of the fact that the elliptical machine is a low/no impact machine it's a perfect choice for people who are suffering from or are recovering from joint problems such as in the knees, ankles, hips or in the back. With an elliptical machine you don't need to remove your feet from the foot pads so there will be little stress on your knees, ankles, hips and back.
When you go shopping online or offline you'll want to find the best machine of the best quality while saving as much money as possible. Generally you can save a lot more money online. Many manufacturers offer free shipping and you can avoid the middleman, resulting in a lower cost. You may want to try out a few machines in your local sporting goods stores to get a better idea of what you want when you shop online.
While using an elliptical machine gives you a no-impact workout, the resistance exercise it gives you helps to build bone density and fight off osteoporosis. Another great thing about this trainer is that you can move at a comfortable speed while allowing for the occasional burst of high intensity movement. It's best to look for an elliptical trainer that has a wide variety of programs preset in the computer.
With quality elliptical exercise equipment, you the movement will feel very fluid. And these trainers have also been proven to offer a lower 'Perceived Rate of Exertion' whenever you're working out. It uses all the muscles in the lower legs.
Elliptical exercise equipment combines the movements and resulting benefits of hiking, cross country skiing, and biking. There are a lot of very good brands of elliptical cross trainers on the market today.
Studies have shown that because elliptical machines optimize energy expenditure, the average person will burn more calories. The basic features of ellipticals include the drive system, the resistance system and the length of the stride. If you're cramped for space at home or have a small home gym, an elliptical trainer can be a great way to save space and get an overall body workout. So an elliptical that folds away for storage purposes may work the best for you, without sacrificing any features you need that is. One of the many reasons the trainers are so popular is because they provide an excellent aerobic workout with minimal stress on the joints.
Ellipticals will continue to develop and provide an optimum workout for their users. The best machines offer many advantages over other forms of exercise and other exercise equipment. And comparing elliptical machine reviews, ratings and rankings such as in Consumer Reports magazine is an important first step to saving a lot of money while still getting the best features.
Saving Money On Your Elliptical Machine
Just about all gyms, health and fitness clubs and many homes have already acquired elliptical machines. If you are only just thinking about the best all-around home fitness equipment, you should consider an elliptical trainer. But buying a machine online or offline is difficult unless you've spent time comparing reviews, rankings and ratings.
The Consumer Reports magazine is a very good place to start, to compare features and approximate costs of these units. Many of the consumer-type models that are found in sporting goods and the big-box retail stores can only handle users who weigh no more than 250 lbs and cost $1000 or less. So when you go shopping for an elliptical you need to decide beforehand whether you want to buy something expensive or a lower cost or discounted or even used machine.
If you're cramped for space at home or have a small home gym area, an elliptical trainer can be a great way to save needed space while much lower 'Perceived Rate of Exertion' whenever you have a workout. Most trainers are smaller than a treadmill and can be easily moved for cleaning or to store away neatly.
Most units will come standard with an on-board computer. Studies show that because these machines are optimizing one's energy expenditure, the average person will burn a lot more calories. Another great feature is that you can move at a nice, comfortable speed while occasionally allowing for a burst of high intensity.
Elliptical machines first came into the marketplace just a few years ago. They've been gaining in popularity ever since. Now the general estimates of the calories that can be burned with are about 388 calories for a 151 pound woman who has used it for 31 minutes. An elliptical workout burns about 13 calories per minute.
With this machine, all exercises to maintain a healthy bone density can be performed. They help provide healthy bodies by helping to maintain healthy bone density. While using an elliptical machine gives you a no-impact workout, the resistance exercise helps to build bone density and fight off osteoporosis. Because the unit is a low or no impact machine it's a good choice for people who are suffering from or are recovering from knee, ankle or hip joint problems.
With an elliptical there's no need to remove feet from the foot pads so there is little stress on your knees, ankles, hips or back. Look for a trainer that has a few different programs preset into the computer. An elliptical workout provides an overall body workout without all the strain that can be found with other equipment.
An elliptical machine is able can provide the same benefits people can get with exercises. And if you haven't used one yet you really need to try one out. Buying an inexpensive or low cost unit is easy to do today with all the information available online.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Getting Started On An Elliptical Trainer
Actually, the more difficult part of getting started on the elliptical is knowing how often to train on it and for how long. As with beginning any exercise or diet program, be sure to consult with your physician and get clearance before starting. The best advice when just starting out is to take things slowly to allow both your body and your mind to adapt to the new demands you will be placing on them.
A good target is to train on the elliptical 4 times a week for between 30 to 45 minutes. If your schedule doesn’t permit this frequency, then do what you can. Three times a week for 20 minutes will produce great results if done consistently over a period of time. Just make sure you do something and get yourself moving!
The other thing you want to pay attention to is your clothing and footwear. The great news is that these items don’t need to be fancy or expensive. Just be sure to wear loose fitting clothing that will absorb perspiration. Select shoes that offer good shock absorption and provide a little extra room in the toe box. This precaution may help prevent your feet from getting numb while using the elliptical.
The actual form and motion you use on the elliptical is very easy to master. Just remember to maintain an upright posture and don’t hunch over. If using the upper body handles, don’t grip them too tightly as this will cause your forearms to tense up. Then it’s just a matter of taking full, easy flowing strides.
Most ellipticals come equipped with a large variety of preset programs with the ability to store user profiles. These are really neat features, but my advice is to just stick with the plain old manual setting. The important thing is to determine your target heart rate and keep within it during the core of your training session. As you progress in your training program then feel free to explore the preset workout programs and begin experimenting with advance training techniques such as high intensity interval training (HIIT).
Once your elliptical workout is complete use the period immediately after you finish to stretch out your muscles for a few minutes. This is very relaxing and will make you feel great afterwards. Just be sure to stretch after your workout and never stretch out a cold muscle!
Getting started on an elliptical is really not difficult at all. Take your time; keep your expectations reasonable, and most importantly, stick with it. That’s the only way you’ll see the results that will make you proud!
Does the Elliptical Cardio Machine Work for Fat Loss?
Now you might know someone that is uses the elliptical all the time and is lean. But I will be the farm that they can thank their genetics, their strength training, and their nutrition for their results. I have yet to see someone transform their physique with the elliptical trainer. In fact, when someone comes to me with a failing program, I often see them using the elliptical for their interval training. And that's the first things I change.
The elliptical machine is sneaky, and it fools us three ways. First, you can get your heart rate up really high and easily. Second, you can get a big sweat on. And third, the machine tells you that you have burned an awful lot of calories (even though the calorie counter is likely inaccurate, as was shown on a CBS news report).
So why doesn't the elliptical work? Because you just don't do as much mechanical work as you do when you run or cycle. Basically, it's just easier and less effective. Getting your heart rate up is not the key determinant of fat loss.
Your body is a well programmed machine. It's 'wired' to increase heart rate and breathing as soon as it senses motion (that's why you start to breathe heavily after taking a single flight of stairs - it's not just because you are unfit).
The key factor in fat loss is the amount of work done. Until you learn to separate the influence of the two, you won't be using intervals in the best possible manner.
As fat loss expert Alwyn Cosgrove explains, "The problem is not the elliptical itself -- it's just that it tends to allow/promote momentum (as most people have the resistance too low) from bodyweight alone. So unless you crank up the resistance and actually produce some force and/or MOVE your bodyweight - it's nothing but momentum. So if you're not actively using your muscles to produce some sort of force you aren't burning many calories."
But even then, I still don't think using a high resistance level on the ellliptical will get you the results you are looking for. Yet despite their ineffectiveness, elliptical machines and the like remain a popular training method. But that's only due to the human condition - like flowing water, we seek the path of least resistance. We'll will do anything to get around obstacles rather than doing the real work required to overcome the obstacles. Given the choice, humans always go with the easiest option.
Compare the elliptical to the Stairmaster. Stairmasters are more effective but less popular. Why? Because we've found something easier (the elliptical) that still gives us the comfort of a sweat and an elevated heart rate (even if we don't get the results). And now millions of gym goers pat themselves on the back after flailing around on the elliptical for 30 minutes and thinking they've been shedding fat.
Training in your comfort zone is useless. Your metabolic rate will increase when your body is forced to change. The harder and smarter you train, the greater your increase in metabolic rate. That is why you have to do things the right way (the TT way!), to lose fat. As I've always said with Turbulence Training, the key to getting results is making your body change. That means using training techniques that demand your body to change. The elliptical will not cause your body to change. It is a waste of time.
So what works better? If you have my TT Reports, you know I recommend the stationary bike. It's safe, effective, and convenient. You can work at a very high power outage, and that is no illusion. You are doing the work (as long as you are not spinning at a very high RPM - that is another waste of time!).
Of course, you can also use sprinting. But that has a few more risks to it, whether it is done on a treadmill (risk: falling) or outside (risk: muscle pulls - so prepare appropriately).
Some other manly fat loss interval options are sled pulling, Farmer Walks (see photo), pushing heavy objects, wheelbarrow carries, and complexes. I'll talk more about the exciting fat-shedding potential of lifting complexes in my future reports.
Fullbodymakeover
The Routine: Here’s how to get more out of your stepping or climbing workout.
-Start slowly. It’s best to step or climb for 30 minutes and work up from there.
-Position your feet well. Users may feel their toes become numb and tingly before the end of the session. If you’re getting weird messages from your southernmost reaches, you’re probably putting too much pressure on the balls of your feet, pinching off blood circulation to your toes.
Move your feet forward or back on the foot pads until you find a position the lets them feel normal. Also wiggle your toes periodically to ward off the tingles.
-Step away from the arm rest You’ll get more work out of your workout when you don’t lean heavily on the armrest. For starters, you’ll be bearing and moving around more of your own weight, and burning more calories as a result. Second, when you stand up straight, you give your abs a better workout because they have to support you during exercise. You can also burn more calories, add your arms to the action, pumping them as you would during a run. You can burn up to 30% more calories by not using the armrest, which makes the workout more efficient. -Warmup and Cooldown:
Be sure to ease into your workout to allow your muscles to warm up, and slow down at the end of the session to cool down. You’ll probably find that your machine has warmups and cooldowns built into its workouts.
Elliptical Machines Provide Low Impact, Total Body Workouts That Even The Novice Can Benefit From.
If you are looking for an effective and thorough indoor workout, than look no further than an elliptical machine. There are many benefits with having ellipticals, one of them is when you use one, you will notice how impact free your workout will be.
Also a total body workout on one of these machines is challenging enough for serious athletes
Of course, like with any physical activity, expert advise should be sought from your doctor before the use of any exercise equipment.
With the elliptical machine, there is no impact on the ground, so lower body joints are free from abuse you may get with other workout machines.
Exercising with the elliptical, you are sure to get an excellent cardiovascular workout with maximum efficiency. Most of these machines will give you a total body workout, if your machine has dual action handlebars for your arms and foot pedals for your legs.
The Elliptical Vs The Treadmill? Which one is the leader of the pack?
"According to studies, if you exercise on an elliptical machine, the impact on the joints is low or it has no impact and the user will burn roughly the same amount of calories as more strenuous machine like a treadmill. So you get the same results for less effort."
Many of these activities sometimes involve vigorous movement of the bones and muscles and can inflame old injuries and maybe cause new ones. The joints that are commonly affected by an impact form of exercise are usually the knees, ankles, hips and back.
These little statistics probably tells us the reason why elder exercisers with knee problems and rehabilitating users go for an elliptical machine rather than a more vigorous machine like a treadmill. Here are a few of the benefits an elliptical offers:
Research has shown, to maintain healthy bone density, it is necessary to take part in weight-bearing activities such as running, squash, football, and other sports where you remain on your feet.
Elliptical workouts may not seem to be routines that are as benficial as more strenuos, high impact ones on a treadmill. But in actual fact, the whole routine is a weight bearing activity, as your feet are placed on two pedals throughout the workout. So as well as avoiding the toil that comes with a treadmill routine, it is also good for bone density.
Women that are pregnant, those that suffer from arthritis, and recovering accident victims often require a low impact routine, and that is exactly what the elliptical machine provides.
The oval pedaling motion of the machine, as you step up and down on the pedals or platforms, is smooth and flowing. Interestingly. this motion follows same type of elliptical movement that the human foot follows when we walk or run.
Although the movement created is similar to these activities, all the strain and vigorous action associated with them is taken away. The beauty is in the simplicity, your feet never leave the footpad, as well as this being a safer workout, it reduces the stress on your joints..
The elliptical motion feels natural and is easy to sustain. You will find that elliptical machines compliment and enhance normal body movements, making your workouts feel less exertive and more penetrative. Focusing on particular and general muscle groups and giving you an extensive overall body workout.
Studies have also shown that ellipticals work the cardio muscles and burns calories on the same par as Treadmills if not greater, as well as stair steppers. The added bonus is that it feels alot easier to use an elliptical.
The elliptical has some truly unique features, setting it apart fom its rivals. A good feature that an elliptical has over some machines is the variety it adds to the workout. One of the biggest challenges that you as a user faces is to stay motivated and interested in your training program.
With the dual action handlebars we mentioned earlier, the exerciser can choose the option of not using them and focusing just on the lower body. With the precor models, it is possible to change the the cross ramp incline as well as varying the intensity.
However, there is a feature on these machines that seperates the elliptical trainer from many other exercise machines when it comes to variety. That feature is the forward and reversible feature on the foot pedals. Most elliptical machines have a setting allowing you to "go backwards" and work additional muscles that very many other exercise workouts do not target. The fact that you are standing and walking or running in place, the leg muscles as well as those in your buttocks, back, and abdomen are worked effortlessly.
Many ellipticals will allow you to adjust the resistance and change the incline. These adjustments are increased at your own convenience and allow you to gradually increase the resistance and continuously challenge your limits.
Recommended top five elliptical machines to buy.
Precor - Although Precor is generally known for it's commercial machines in gyms all over the world, they also make some less-expensive trainers for the home exerciser. They can be quite pricey, starting from $2,000 and upwards, however, the quality you get makes up for the cost. What sets them apart is that Precor machines have adjustable ramps, they are sturdy and well built, with which cheaper trainers cannot compete.
ProForm 700 - This trainer features dual-action engineering. In real terms, it's got arm handles to work both your upper and lower body at the same time. At around $400, it's a good buy and includes iFit.com technology so you can hook it up to your computer for new workouts. You also get 6 workouts for maximize calorie burning.
Nordic Track Elliptical - This one is very competitively priced, at around $700. For your moneu you get 6 different exercise programs, Custom Stride pedals, iFit.com technology, and magnetic resistance. You also get dual action arm handles, a book and water bottle holder and an exceptionally quiet workout. Similar to the ProForm above, except for the adjustable stride...which is excellent if more than one person will be using it.
Reebok Elliptical Trainers - Like the other trainers listed here apart from the precor, the Reebok Elliptical offers dual arm and leg movement and comes pre-programmed with various workouts. Between $400 and $500, this is a good choice for someone on a budget, although you will not get some of the extras offered by other trainers.
Fitness Quest Eclipse 4000 - The eclipse offers a smooth, workout with an electric magnetic system. A nice little bonus is that it has arm handles through which the heart rate is measured for ease of use. Also features reverse motion and programs that cover all fitness goals from fat burning to cardiovascular routines.
but at the same time safe enough for beginners and even mothers to be.
Use Ellipticals - modern step towards fitness
Ellipticals are one of the modern machines to attain fitness in true meaning. These machines are originally designed by exercise scientists to provide movement as free as possible from the impacts and stresses associated with the more conventional forms of exercise such as running, or using exercise bikes and other aerobic machines. The exercise done on these machines are safe as they protect the exerciser from getting any kind of strain, shear and compression type injuries.
Elliptical machines offer workout for both upper and lower body of the individual. This machine is one of various fitness equipments; provide the benefits of weight bearing exercise but without the harmful stress and impact on your joints and muscles. It is a cardiovascular exercise device. The elliptical trainer mirrors running and walking somewhat like a treadmill, however the difference is that instead of the foot coming down on a hard surface, the feet move in a smooth, seamless fashion like using an exercise bike. This eliminates a vast amount of damage to the knees, ankles and joints that a treadmill imposes.
Some of the remarkable features of elliptical machines are:
• Brakes- Its braking system is very powerful as most of them have magnetic brakes. • Movement- It is a smooth machine that allows smooth movements without any risk of jerk or shock to any body part. • Maximum workload - how much workload can the elliptical provide when used flat out? If you're fit look for at least 250 watts. • Programs - can offer variety and motivation by simulating various hill courses, allowing you to create your own or by controlling your heart rate. • Power - some elliptical machines are self-powered; others need mains connection.
In all, it has been stated that elliptical machines emerge to be one of highly popular fitness equipments that is highly cost effective and one that would let you maintain good physic. You would be able to get fitness in true meaning.
Benefits Of Using An Elliptical Training Machine
Most health professionals agree that an elliptical equipment exercise program that conditions your heart and works your muscles is the best way to keep in shape. Most training equipment works one or the other, not both. The main benefit of working out with elliptical machines is that you obtain a complete workout.
With other types of training equipment you are very limited in the amount of control that you have. With ellipticals, you can adjust the machine to fit your specific needs. The major parts of elliptical machines are typically adjustable, and this can mean the difference in an effective workout and one that is ineffective. With the ability to control the resistance, stride length, and incline of the exercise equipment also makes ellipticals great for family use where these items are different for each family member.
If you enjoy working out in the morning, another benefit of using ellipticals that you will appreciate is the noise level. You don’t have to worry about waking up everyone in the house because this exercise equipment is virtually silent. Many people set up their favorite machine in front of a television or listen to music to help them remain motivated during their training. With some other trainers you have to turn the volume up loud on the television or stereo because the machine is so loud.
What is the Best Cardio Machine for Your Workout?
Treadmills
Ah, the ever popular idea of running in place. I've read many articles that state that running on a treadmill is the best way to burn fat. And, in many cases I would have to agree with them. Some of the really nice things about treadmills is that they give you the same feeling as running in the country, but without the country smell. So the big pros to doing your cardio workout on a treadmill is that it is a great fat burner and cardio monster. Some of the down sides are that you experience the same impact that you would doing regular running, which depending on the condition of your knees might not necessarily be a really good idea.
Elliptical Trainer
One of my personal favorites, the elliptical trainer gives you a really good workout with out the impact that the treadmill does. That is probably the biggest benefit to the elliptical. One of the problems that sometimes comes with an elliptical is that it is fixed in the way that it moves. If you've ever sat back and watched people run, you'll notice that different people move differently when they run. I have yet to notice a standard when it comes to every-day joggers. But on an elliptical, you have to fit the machine and that can become somewhat uncomfortable. In the gym that I go to there are only 2 elliptical machines that I like to use because my knees always hit the joints on the other ones because of my height. Other than that, I love using elliptical trainers!
Stationary Bike (Upright)
Another classic, the stationary bike has been around for a long time. For those of us with somewhat bad knees, these are great for staying low impact and also getting a good workout for the quad and other legs muscles. My wife and I both have some knee problems, and the doctor always says that riding a stationary bike is a great way to help that out. Overall the stationary bike is a great alternative for your cardio workout.
Recumbent Stationary Bike
This seems to be a relatively newer version of the old bicycle, and at first I have to admit I really didn't like it. What I've found since then is that it is a very deceiving cardio machine. Let me explain: when I first used a recumbent bike I felt like I wasn't getting much of a workout. Since then, I've found that over time you can work up quite a sweat with a recumbent bike. In fact, that's what my cardio workout was this morning and after about 30 minutes I was sweating really good! The other great feature of the recumbent bike, is that it is the easiest cardio machine to get a workout and some good reading at the same time! Stair Climber One of the great things about the stair climber is that, just like the stationary bike, you can make it really hard if you want to. The stair climber can even be used as part of your leg routine if you make the resistance high enough! Stair climbers give you essentially the same effect of running up and down stairs, without having to actually go to a stadium to do it.
So, when it comes to doing a cardio workout, I've found that its very important to mix up what you do on a rather consistent basis. Cardio is one of those things that can become very boring, so have some fun with it!
How To Buy Elliptical Machines
Many of the consumer models found in sporting good and big-box retail stores can only handle users who weigh no more than 115 kg (250 lbs), and they cost about $1000 (US) or less. Buying an elliptical machine online can be difficult if you haven't spent time comparing the reviews and ratings. The best way to determine which elliptical machine is the best fit for you is by making a list of all the features that you need to have in a trainer.
It is possible to find low cost or cheap elliptical machines with a little bit of research online. Consumer Reports magazine is just one good place to compare features and costs of elliptical machines, you'll want to see what they report. Because of the fact that the elliptical machine is a low/no impact machine it's a perfect choice for people who are suffering from or are recovering from any kind of joint problem such as in the knees, ankles, hip or back.
Elliptical trainers use both the arms and the legs, making it a cross trainer, in a smooth and natural motion. An elliptical workout burns about 13 calories in a minute. Elliptical machines are proven to provide the best workouts for the cardiovascular system.
Elliptical machines give a weight resistant workout which is important because weight resistant workouts will burn calories faster and more efficiently. The elliptical trainer uses every one of the muscles of the lower leg. It's best to look for an elliptical trainer that has a many different programs that are preset into the computer.
Elliptical exercise equipment combines the movements and the benefits of hiking, cross country skiing, along with biking. There are many very good brands of elliptical cross trainers on the market today; some of the most popular brands include: Precor, Life Fitness, Quantum Fitness and SportsArt Fitness.
For people with health concerns, one of the reasons that elliptical trainers are so popular is because they provide an excellent aerobic workout with only minimal stress on the joints.
With an elliptical machine, all the exercises that maintain a healthy bone density can be performed. According to machine manufacturers, a general estimate of calories burned by an elliptical trainer can go up to as much as 720 calories an hour. Studies have shown that because elliptical machines are optimizing energy expenditure, the average person will burn more calories than with other types of equipment.
Most if not all elliptical machines will come standard with an on board computer. Because elliptical machines are a mix between a treadmill and a stair climber you have a great opportunity to cross-train with them.
There are many benefits that can be enjoyed by using an elliptical machine. The elliptical machine is quickly gaining popularity both in and out of the gym. And if you have never used an elliptical machine you need to give one a try.
To review, when scouting out elliptical machines to buy, make sure you make a list of features that you have to have, compare, ratings, reviews and ranking to get the best buy, especially Consumer Reports and get online prices. Online machines may often be cheaper than offline and many dealers pay the shipping costs. You can try out the machines at your local sporting goods stores to find the right brand and model. But make sure to compare to the online price because you may be able to save significantly.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Using An Elliptical Trainer To Burn Mega Calories Safely And Lose Weight Fast
One, obviously, is that you probably will not do it in the rain or any extremely adverse weather. The other is that running does cause impact injuries from the constant jarring. An elliptical trainer is the answer. It is the quintessential perfect workout machine and offers the ideal way burn mega calories safely and lose weight fast.
The elliptical trainer was designed to follow the natural leg movement and range of motion while also including your upper body. It is a very low impact machine that will utilize more muscles through a wider range of motion (which makes it far superior to even a treadmill as most do not offer any upper body workout). Exercising on an elliptical machine is aerobic and similar to cross country skiing, but different in that it is akin to cross country skiing up a steep and continuous incline (like a stair climber).
The elliptical machines give a much more intense and more rounded workout that places more emphasis and burn on the hip and thigh areas. It also uses the wider range of motion and resistance which only an elliptical trainer can do in its leg movements further intensifying the workout which the cross country machines can not do.
Generally it is stated by most exercise experts that with these machines the more you weigh the more the calories you will burn. It all depends on your weight, the difficulty setting chosen and proper use and motion.
With an elliptical trainer many people have the tendency to use it wrongly and not get the optimum results. Just go to any gym with elliptical machines and watch the people using them. Many tend to bounce way too much and use their body weight to ride down each side. This is incorrect.
The goal is to try and hold your hips as stationary as possible instead of letting them bounce all over the place. By holding the hips in place you take in a much greater range of motion and greatly intensify the workout and it now becomes a mega calorie burning machine and an ultimate method for fast weight loss.
Proper motion on an elliptical trainer is akin to isometric exercises. Try and hold your motion so that your legs and arms do all the work and movement and that your hips stay parallel without bobbing up and down. If you bob up and down, its like riding a bike where the only exercise you get is on the down stroke and if you stand up and use your body weight it becomes almost effortless. The same is true for the elliptical training machine.
Now try this on the elliptical trainer and let your legs and arms go through their fuller range of motion while your core stays stationary. This will be hard to do at first, but you will burn 10 times the calories of someone not doing this and greatly increase your metabolism over time. You can also make it even harder by using the arm attachments like an isometric exercise by pushing and pulling on them at the same time. This goes to show that going fast does not necessarily mean you are getting the most from your workout.
Going slow while using the kinesthetics of the elliptical trainer while also using isometrics to further pump your muscles will give the optimum results and help you lose weight faster than ever. If you do not believe me on this, just try it and you will be a believer! If its too hard, do not be afraid to lessen the tension or difficulty level and work your way up.
The best part of working out on an elliptical trainer, besides the great caloric burn and intense workouts (when used correctly) is that it is very low and almost non existent impact. You can also roll the machine in front of a TV and watch the news, a movie, or even reality TV. This will help take your mind off the workout (just do not forget to hold your hips level throughout the workout and use isometrics with your arms to up the resistance and workout intensity like never before).
When used properly, the elliptical trainer is difficult to beat for its wide range of motion, mega caloric burn, weight loss properties, low to moderate cost (a good home unit can be had for under $500) and convenience.
What to Look for When You Buy an Elliptical Exercise Machine
First and foremost, you really should try it out yourself before you make any decisions. Try a wide variety of models made by different manufacturers, and see what seems to fit you best as you go. There is really no substitute for actually using the machines yourself to see what features are most important to you.
With that in mind, you also should make sure that the elliptical machine seems very stable and solid. You don't want any herky jerky motions while you're working out. Everything should be smooth and quiet. This will usually not only provide you with a better workout, but is often an indication of the quality of the machine itself and how long you can expect it to last.
Pay attention to the display of each machine as you test them. From one machine to another the display can be completely different. So make sure that your favorite machine has the display that you want. Most of them will show your speed, your time and distance. But there may be other useful information that you want as well, for instance, calories burned, or heart rate. Also, the display should be easy to read even while you are in the middle of your exercise.
The handlebars on an elliptical trainer are an important consideration as well. Because they usually go back and forth, they can actually get in the way or even hit you if they are not well designed. So make sure that they are comfortable and easy-to-use.
A very popular feature on the new elliptical trainers is the exercise program built into the trainer. This will allow you to adjust your workout as you go. It's good to be able to both set up the program before you begin, and also allow you the freedom to manually adjust your work out while it is in progress. So look for elliptical machines that let you do both.
Size is always a consideration with an exercise machine that is this large. So before you buy anything make sure that you have measured out the room where you intend for it to go well in advance, and know that it will fit there.
These are just a few suggestions that can help you as you are shopping for an elliptical exercise machine. And hopefully, they will help you find the elliptical trainer that will best fit your needs.
Elliptical Training Machines vs Treadmills
Elliptical training machines and treadmills are not created equal, however; just because they're both cardio workout equipment, doesn't mean they improve exactly the same things in the human body. These two pieces of equipment have entirely different functions, and you should look into these functions before making your decision to buy.
Treadmills, being older and thus having enjoyed a longer stint in the market, are a traditional favorite. The treadmill focuses on working out the lower half of your body, by simulating running and walking exercises indoors. This makes treadmills an excellent device to help you burn up unwanted calories. Treadmills provide a reasonably lighter impact so that your legs don't get as strained as they would be during regular outdoor runs or jogs. The less impact there is on your legs, the less chances there are of your leg muscles bulking up, like competitive runners' legs do. Electric treadmills are especially useful for lessening the friction between your feet and the running belt. You can set speeds so that you can walk or run at different paces, depending on what's comfortable and recommended for you.
But while newer in the market, elliptical machines deserve a second look. They not only exercise the lower body and pump up the heart like treadmills do; they also give your upper body a good aerobic workout. Elliptical machines have different models and makes, but for the most part they resemble cycling machines where you don't actually get to sit down while you cycle – in fact, you do your pedaling standing up, on flat vertical pedals! If the treadmill lessens the friction between your feet and the running area, the elliptical trainer virtually removes it, providing more fluidity of movement but at the same time inviting the body to use less force.
If you want a stronger and more solidly "built" lower body, you should definitely get the treadmill. The treadmill is great for people who want to build up their stamina while toning their leg muscles. It's especially useful for people who need to train for marathons or walkathons. The elliptical training machine, being a lower-impact device, doesn't bulk up your limbs as much, but does provide a full-body workout. It distributes the results of the exercise equally throughout both the upper and lower parts of the body.
Elliptical Machines - What You Must Know About Elliptical Trainers Before You Buy
The best way to determine which elliptical machine is the best fit for you is by making a list of all the features that you're looking for in a trainer. You can find low cost or cheap elliptical machines with a little bit of research online. So if you're thinking about home fitness and exercise equipment, seriously think about an elliptical trainer.
Most gyms, fitness clubs and even many homes have already acquired their own elliptical machines. Now that you've decided to choose an elliptical machine for your home gym you will be faced with many different machines and many different brands, and it can be very overwhelming when you are trying to choose the best machine for you. High-end elliptical machines, like SportsArt Fitness, Quantum Fitness, Precor, Life Fitness, and other brands found in specialty stores, can accommodate users up to 400 lbs (180 kg) and range in price from $1200 to $5300 (US).
An elliptical workout provides you with an overall body workout without all the strain. Elliptical exercise equipment combines the movements and benefits of hiking, cross country skiing, and biking. Because elliptical machines are a mix between the treadmill and a stair climber you have a great opportunity to cross-train.
Most elliptical trainers are smaller than a treadmill and can be more easily moved to clean or to store away when company is coming. An elliptical workout burns about 13 calories per minute. With quality elliptical exercise equipment, you feel the movement as fluid.
There are quite a few benefits for using an elliptical trainer but probably one of the most important benefits is the absence of impact. Elliptical trainer workouts are generally safe for the joints and provide a no-impact workout as opposed to a treadmill where your feet hit the deck with every step. With an elliptical machine there is no need to remove your feet from the foot pads so there will be little stress on your knees, ankles, hips and back. Because of this the elliptical machines are good for people who are disabled or who have serious mobility issues such as multiple sclerosis, where picking up numb feet and/or legs make it difficult to use a treadmill.
Elliptical trainers use the arms and the legs making it a cross trainer, in a smooth and natural motion. And elliptical machines give you a weight resistant workout which is very important because, weight resistant workouts burn calories faster and more efficiently. If you're cramped for space at home, an elliptical trainer can be a great way to save space while getting an overall body workout.
Elliptical machines help give you a more healthy body by maintaining healthy bone density. The basic features of an elliptical machine include the drive system, the resistance system and the length of stride. According to the manufacturers, a general estimate of calories burned by an elliptical trainer can go up to as much as 720 calories an hour.
There are many benefits that can be enjoyed by using an elliptical machine. Elliptical machines will continue to develop and provide an optimum workout for its users. The best elliptical machines offer many advantages over other forms of exercise and other exercise equipment. And you can easily find the best discounts and low cost elliptical machine without sacrificing quality. Make sure to eliminate any expensive features you don't need and check out reviews and ratings.
Some Features Offered by the Best Elliptical Machines
If you really want to get to the down and dirty, there's one thing that separates the best elliptical machines from the not-so-special ones: the features. Elliptical machines differ in price range for a reason: this is how you can tell which models come with more useful features, and can significantly enhance your workout.
1. Reverse motion. Without question, this is the one feature that really pays off. Not all elliptical machines have this, and understandably those that do are often priced slightly higher than regular forward-motion machines. Reverse elliptical motions make for perfect cross-training - that is, working out different muscles and organs all at the same time. Regular elliptical devices are themselves good for cross-training, but only reverse motion ones can help you exercise the muscles that aren't used in forward movements.
2. Multimedia functions. Sure you can have your CD player or TV on while you work out, and external gadgets such as these could either keep you happily distracted, or firmly in rhythm. Rhythm is actually important when exercising even when using a machine; steady repetitive motions help in burning fat from the body. You may think a music player or a gaming console (which come programmed with games that allow you to stay in rhythm with your exercise routine) is a bit excessive, but you might be surprised how useful these things could be in getting a thorough, well-rounded workout!
3. Adjustable speeds, incline and stride. While many automatic elliptical machines nowadays come with adjustable speeds, inclide and stride are somewhat harder to find. An adjustable incline would allow you to better target certain muscles of the lower half of your body - although some say that you sacrifice some upper-body toning when you realign the inclines frequently. An adjustable stride would do the same thing, allowing you to vary your exercise routine and work out the muscles that aren't worked out so well with the use of single-stride devices.
You needn't have all of the features described above to get the best elliptical machine for your private use! You simply need to know which features would best suit your needs. You can have the adjustable incline without the adjustable stride, for example, or simply the reverse motion. Let your budget and your training routine decide which features are most useful for you.
Ten Points To Ponder About Ellipticals
The intensity of your workout is partially dependent on the incline and resistance levels offered. Consider the trainers that include a wide range of levels which increases your range of fitness levels as well as effectively broadening the range of the number of workouts possible. Opt for a machine that enables you to alternate your resistance and incline levels as smoothly as possible without interrupting your stride. The ability to change the incline keeps the workout from becoming repetitive, while also challenging your muscles through a low impact aerobic workout. Added to this is the far greater feature that some trainers offer, the reverse feature. This allows you to "pedal" backwards which truly raises the bar on a superior. Different muscles are used in this motion, that you normally would not be using.
When acquiring a piece of in-home gym equipment, a necessary feature to consider is the noise level. Does it sound like a hurricane has made land fall in your personal exercise room? A certain amount of noise is to be expected, but only at a minimum. A low, swishing sound is common for the exclusive machines that will not interfere with your preferences of audio or video materials, as opposed to the machines of lesser quality.
Safety on any chosen form of personal exercise machinery is imperative. Accept no less on the elliptical trainer you are choosing to purchase. Is there a fan for temperature control? Be certain there are proper warm-up and cool down features or programs. Taking routine care of your body now eliminates more future problems.
Yet another choice detail that has impressively rated high on features most often preferred is a heart rate monitor. Once you have familiarized yourself with target heart rate levels you need to achieve your goal of fat burn, or aerobic level, etc. this feature enables you to monitor your heart rate throughout your exercise routine.
If you are aiming for effectively achieving an overall workout that includes both your upper and lower body, you may want to choose an elliptical trainer that features dual movement arm handles. This increases your heart rate which also helps to increase your heart rate by total body movement.
A convenient LCD screen should include several additional, helpful displays for monitoring your speed, calorie burn content, the distance you have covered, and much more all in easily read and understood display.
Confirm the highest weight capacity of the trainer. Will all of the members planning on accessing the trainer, be able to? The higher weight capacity guaranteed, the more structurally sound the trainer will be.
Have a room or designated area already specified for the use of your elliptical trainer. It is essential to know the measurements of your workout room or space prior to purchasing your elliptical trainer. Then note the measurements of the trainer, allowing for ample range of movement to eliminate any safety hazards such as furniture items located too closely to the trainer. The standard trainer is 52"x24 "x62 ".
A maintenance free trainer including an excellent warranty would be an ideal purchase! Some warranties offer approximately 1 year of labor covered as well as 1,2 , or 3 years for parts. If you are considering purchasing a used trainer, be certain you read the warranty offer first.
Keep these pointers in mind when you review and research your options on different elliptical trainer models. It is profitable to you, in the longer to take a small amount of time to educate yourself with these pointers. Know what you prefer, then buy your personal in-home elliptical trainer.
Elliptical Trainer - What Is It?
This is designed to flow with each movement and this is best for the whole body. It will not cause pressure on any of the sensitive parts of the body like the joints. It will make you feel much better each time you use this wonderful machine. It will even carry over into the next day. The stiff painful body will be nonexistent.
You will be able to get a high aerobic workout with no high-pressure exercise. It will allow you to burn off the weight two times quicker than the other machines do. This is because of its ability to work on the whole body instead of one part only. You will be working your arms and legs at the same time and with none of the pressure.
It will be apparent that an overabundance of these machines exists. Try taking some time to learn everything you can about these before you buy. You can use the internet for this. Multitudes of websites are out there with a wealth of information. It is wonderful to be able to limit the search down to a few good machines for using at home or in the spa.
The choice of machines for at home use or for business use like for a spa is up to you. It will depend on whether or not you are the only one using it or if others in your family are going to be exercising also. The business types will definitely cost more than the ones for the home. They do have a tendency to last for ten or more years. They can take a lot of punishment. They also come with more features and will be able to give you a better type of workout.