About Elliptical Cross Trainers

Elliptical cross trainers have been around for several years now and continue to gain in popularity.  One reason is the increased quality that is found in many of the newer home models.  Traditionally, treadmills and stationary bikes were the trainers of choice in home gym equipment for cardiovascular health.  This is no longer necessarily true as elliptical cross trainers offer several benefits that are not seen in either treadmills or bikes.  In addition to offering a more total body workout, mid to high quality elliptical machines also offer a broader workout that combines strength training with a traditional cardiovascular routine that to many people feels less strenuous than other workouts.

The first home models of elliptical cross trainers received much criticism for several reasons.  First, they were loud and not usually anywhere close to as smooth running as their gym counterparts.  Folks who were hoping to find that same very low impact workout they got at their local gym were disappointed in early elliptical cross trainers.  This is not true anymore.  While it is true that there are many models of cheap elliptical machines being marketed that don't include an adjustable incline or any type of resistance mechanism, this is not true of the majority of elliptical cross trainers available for home use.  A high quality elliptical excellent for moderate use by one person can be had now beginning somewhere around $700-$800 dollars depending on your location.  Models starting in this price range run surprisingly smooth and quiet and will actually require less floor space than a treadmill.

While traditionally in the past, treadmills were the most popular cardiovasular workout available, this is not so with the modern elliptical cross trainers available. Take a look around the next time you go to your local gym and you will notice the trend - the lines have generally shifted to the ellipticals! One reason for this is their ease of use. After getting over the initial jitters of climbing onto the elliptical machine, they actually become quite fun to use. The motion is very smooth and is designed to work with your natural stride and joint rhythm while providing support to your body and resistance to work as a simultaneous strength training. Because of the strength training aspect, a treadmill may still work better for most people for purely loosing weight, but the elliptical is superior in providing a whole body workout and increasing muscle tone at the same time.

The support and smooth ride provided by an elliptical machine also makes for an excellent low to no impact workout. Unlike running on a treadmill which will jar the joints from your ankles all the way up through your back, the natural motion of your joints is followed and supported by an elliptical cross trainer. This makes the elliptical workout excellent for many people who may never have exercised a day in their lives before. Where other types of aerobic exercise mayseverely aggravate the joints of someone who is overweight and trying to get in shape, the elliptical machine provides gentle support. In addition, the majority of ellipticals have the option of moving both forwards and backwards, working different sets of muscle groups in either direction. Try running backwards on your treadmill!

If you are considering purchasing a home elliptical cross trainer and you've never purchased home workout equipment before, make sure that you visit a few stores first to try out the different options available. Even if you plan to purchase your new elliptical online, trying before you buy will help insure you find the perfect elliptical machine in your price range. The smallest stride length that is recommended is 18". If you are over six feet tall, this may feel short to you. Its best to find an elliptical machine that fits your stride and supports your body through its range of motion while providing enough resistance to give a good workout. The last thing you should consider is the warranty period available. How willing a company is to stand behind their product in the years to come is a good indication of the level of quality that you can expect in your new elliptical cross trainer.