Author: JeremyR | Total views: 32 Comments: 0
Word Count: 879 Date: Thu, 27 Nov 2008 10:10 AM

Elliptical Trainer Secrets That You Must Know

Are you looking for the best elliptical machine at the best possible price? If so you'll want to read my tips to find out which will be the best buy for you and/or your family. Choosing any elliptical trainer is much more complicated than just stopping in your favorite sports or fitness store, testing it out and buying it on the spot. Much more thought and research should be put into any fitness equipment that you buy today.

In the history of personal fitness and aerobics, ellipticals are the only aerobic products that have made a breakthrough. They only really came into the marketplace a few years ago and they've been gaining in popularity fast among users of all ages. Because elliptical machines are a cross between the treadmill and a stair climber you can easily cross-train too.

Elliptical machines offer the best cardiovascular workout. It doesn't matter if you're a novice or seasoned fitness user the elliptical trainer will work well on any exercise program you choose and you'll find your own comfortable personal fitness level. It works well with a nice rhythmic flowing movement.

The good higher-end quality machines can give you a comfortable stride because they are larger and have better construction. Although there are trainers available with a 14-inch stride, make sure to pick a 21-inch stride for the best use and settings.

The elliptical trainer is a low/no impact machine so its the perfect machine for anyone suffering from joint problems that often occur in the knees, hips, back and ankles. That one major reason that they became so popular is that they give you an excellent aerobic workout without much stress to the joints. If you suffer from any kind of balance problems they are a better choice than the treadmill where good balance may be necessary. An elliptical workout provides a good body workout with very little strain.

The basic must-have features include the drive and resistance systems and the proper stride length.

Make sure the model you choose has an adjustable and wide range of inclines. This will help with your aerobic activity as you move along in your workout or exercise routine. You'll also want varying levels of resistance. The combination will give you the best possible workout. Make sure your adjustments are not jarring. You may want a trainer that has a few different programs that have been preset into the computer.

Make sure your elliptical trainer is quiet. You may want to be able to watch TV or listen to your favorite music or not disturb sensitive family members who need a quiet environment. Check to see that it has proper safety features. You may want cooling fans. Warm-up programs and cooldown programs help you work your muscles properly. A heart rate monitor is always a good feature to have. You can easily check out your aerobic and heart rate goals.

Of the many benefits the most important is the low impact benefit. They also have been proven to give a lower feeling of exertion when you work out. Some studies report that because they optimize energy expenditure, that most people will burn more calories. The machine uses all the muscles in the lower part of the leg. And all the movement helps maintain healthy bone density. If you don't have a lot of space or have a small workout area, they can be a good way to save space over other home exercise equipment.

There are a many good, popular and higher-end brands of elliptical machines in sports stores, specialty stores, fitness stores, big box stores and online stores including Precor, Life Fitness, SportsArt Fitness, Horizon, Nordic Track, Smooth, Schwinn, and Quantum Fitness. Many can handle users up to 180 kg (400 lbs) or so. They can range in price from $1200 to $5600.

If you want to save a lot of money, make sure to check out the online prices. Compare them to the off line prices in your sports, fitness specialty or big box stores. You'll find that many of the dealers online will offer to ship them free. And if you know the model number that you want to buy you can check out the machine in your local stores and then compare the prices online.

The sports equipment consignment stores and used sporting goods stores usually have used or slightly used ellipticals at very low prices. Some of these will be in very good condition. That is because many people buy equipment they think you'll use and then they don't follow through as you probably know.

Try asking for a business discount, health professional discount or senior discount if appropriate. In any case ask for a discount, even if its on sale. Look for sales all year round. And there are still other ways to buy them cheaper.

To sum up there are many manufacturers of high technology home elliptical machines. There are many health benefits that can be reaped. You can easily find a low cost trainer with a little research. And if you've never used one you should give it a try before you buy.

About the Author

Exercising on elliptical trainer is the best way to lose weight and get fit. If you do not know which elliptical machine would be best for the goals you have, we can help you choose if you visit our site.