Elliptical cross trainers, also known as ellipticals, offer a low-impact, full-body workout that burns calories to the tune of 800 per hour, depending on your body weight. But what are other benefits of an elliptical?
Low Impact
We mentioned above that ellipticals offer a low impact workout. But what does this really mean? Compared to a treadmill, you don’t have to worry about the repeated pounding your joints take when you run on a treadmill, as your feet never leave the pedals. This is even lower impact than walking! But since one of the additional benefits of an elliptical is still a weight-bearing workout, you do gain bone density in your spine, legs, and hips – just like you do on a treadmill.
Upper Body Workout!
Unlike a treadmill, where as you run, you more than likely keep your arms close to your body for better upper body control while running – on an elliptical, you have moving handlebars that you hold onto as you workout. The push and pull action you experience on these handlebars as you pedal gives you true full-body workout., targeting your chest, back, shoulders and arms, while the pedals work every major muscle in your lower body.
Better Weight Loss
Did you know that you can burn up to 800 calories per hour on an elliptical (depending on your body weight) – compared to a similar workout on a treadmill that may burn only 500-600 calories? Take your fat burning to a new level on an elliptical trainer!
Elliptical Workout Tips
A couple of things to keep in mind when you workout on an elliptical so as to maximize your results. Don’t slouch – keep a strong, upright posture as you pedal. Dial up your resistance – the harder your workout, the better your results. And, keep your feet flat – putting pressure on your toes can cause your feet to go numb. And, mix up your workouts – keeping your body guessing helps to maximize your overall results.
Buying an Elliptical for your home
Why fight for space at the gym, when you can put an elliptical in your home? But, to get the most out of your investment – both in equipment, as well as your overall health, going “cheap” in terms of price also may mean going for a lower quality machine. With the stress you put on an elliptical when you are exercising, it’s important to invest in a quality piece of equipment. Brands such as True, Spirit, and Precor are brands that you see at your local gym – and provide both quality and warranties that will make your investment worthwhile. Let’s face it – if your equipment doesn’t work, how much will you be getting out of it? So, invest in a quality elliptical – you’ll thank yourself that you did!
And, if you’re looking to learn more about the benefits of an elliptical, as well as the best ones for your home gym workout requirements, visit Fitness 4 Home Superstore. With 3 Phoenix area locations – we can help you find the best ellipticals from the top brands for your workout needs!
