Machine Mechanics: Elliptical Thinking Print E-mail
Written by Diet Detective Editorial Staff   
These unique stationary trainers offer a workout you can't get anywhere else, inside the gym or out. Find out why you should make one a regular part of your cardio training.

I can still remember the first time I saw the test model of the elliptical trainer. At first glance it looked like some bizarre science-fair project that was not likely to win any ribbons. Despite this, I dared to get on and give it a go. On the prototype, the footplates were too far apart and the handrails useless, which left me looking like I was riding a horse with an unsteady gait. Oddly enough, I still got a great workout, unlike any I had experienced before. I knew immediately this was going to be a great new addition to the fitness equipment market. Now, the contemporary model (with footplates closer together and handrails you can actually reach) is a must-try for everyone doing indoor workouts. Here's why.

The movement is unique
If you were to watch someone carefully while they were on the machine, you'd see that their feet travel in an oval path of continuous movement-an ellipse. This movement simulates the muscle action of running with the comfort of cycling. Another perk of the shape of this smooth movement is that you can workout either forward or backward without risk of injury. In fact, the machine was designed for people to go backward, unlike treadmills and stairclimbers, where you get silly or disapproving looks for attempting a backward maneuver.

It boasts an uncommon combination of features
The low-impact factor of elliptical trainers makes exercise easy on your joints and very tolerable for the high-mileage, injured and older exercisers alike. The fact that you carry your own weight while striding keeps the posture muscles strong and improves your balance and stability. Together, these features make the elliptical trainer a great cross-training option for runners/walkers looking to save their joints, or cyclists trying to add some weight-bearing exercise to their routines.

There are a variety of different elliptical trainers on the market, each with a strength of its own. The Precor EFX offers a variety of ramp positions that change the oval motion to feel more like climbing a hill when in the up position or skiing when in the down position. Changing the ramp angle emphasizes different muscles in the legs and reduces the risk of overuse injuries. Other manufacturers, such as Life Fitness, have a fixed ramp position but add the option of using your arms. This offers a total-body option that can increase your calorie burn and work the muscles in the arms and upper back

Christine "CC" Cunningham, MS, ATC/L, CSCS is the owner of performENHANCE sports performance training in Chicago (http://www.performenhance.net).  She is a frequent writer and lecturer on personal training, functional exercise and human performance enhancement.  CC can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . 

Last Updated ( Monday, 03 July 2006 )
 
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