Saturday, January 12, 2008

How To Buy Elliptical Machines

If you're seriously thinking about buying any home fitness equipment, consider one of the best choices - an elliptical trainer. Choosing an elliptical machine is much more complex than just trying one out and deciding to buy it right on the spot. In the history of fitness and aerobics, elliptical machines are the only aerobic product to have made a major breakthrough.

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.

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