Elliptical Machines Review

For a first-rate overall workout, it is hard to beat an elliptical trainer. In a relatively short time with just one exercise machine, you can do wonders for your cardiovascular system as well as some serious toning work for your arms and legs with elliptical machines.

These multi-faceted exercise machines have not been around for very long, but they are held in high esteem by professional athletes and exercise beginners alike. Elliptical machines can help you work up a healthy sweat, peel off pounds, add muscle and build a strong heart and lungs – all without hurting your joints or lower back the way some other types of exercise machines can.

Finding the right elliptical trainer is akin to finding the perfect meal. What might be perfect for you could be just awful as far as your neighbor is concerned. We have examined the qualities of many elliptical machines to make it easier for you to study some of the best elliptical trainers on the market and then select what would best serve your exercise needs. We have found the Precor EFX 5.25, the Smooth Agile DMT X2 and the Sole E35 to be excellent choices for elliptical trainers. For more information about the value and best qualities of elliptical machines, check articles on elliptical machines. At TopTenREVIEWS We Do the Research So You Don’t Have To.™

Elliptical trainers are relatively new kids on the fitness scene. Treadmills, rowing machines and other types of workout equipment have been around for quite a while. Precor Fitness, which was founded in 1980 and has created different types of exercise equipment over the years, introduced the first patented “Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer” in 1995.

These first machines, which were effective but rather large, were intended for health clubs. Since then, elliptical designs have been refined and created for home use.

Elliptical Trainer: What to Look For

Using an elliptical trainer for exercise, with your feet on movable pads, offers a powerful cardiovascular workout that is easier on the joints and lower back than pounding the pavement while running. It also works just as well for beginners as seasoned athletes, and it can even be used by people who have sustained prior injuries, despite the fact that it is a weight-bearing form of exercise.

The earliest elliptical trainers did not have movable handlebars, but today most elliptical machines have both stationary handlebars and movable bars. The movable handlebars provide exercise for the upper body, add to the overall cardio exercise experience and give arms a healthy workout. However, it is possible to get a solid workout using an elliptical machine that has only the stationary handlebars.

Some key features to look for in a good elliptical are:

Features
It would be smart to seek out an elliptical that fits your stride as it relates to your height and leg movement. In addition, you likely will want to examine how many workouts the machine provides, what resistance levels are available, whether you can adjust the incline (especially if this can be done automatically) and how you can track what your heart is doing. It also is useful to find out what the maximum user weight is if different family members will be working out on the machine. Most people also will find it helpful to see what the elliptical weighs and how much space it will take up in the home.

Accessories
There may be a number of things that suit your style and remove the tedium from exercise. These can include a rack or accessory shelf to hold reading material, a water bottle holder, plug-in areas for MP3s or other music devices and cooling fans. Warranty: Look for the best elliptical you can afford. Even budget elliptical trainers are not particularly cheap, so if you are going to spend that kind of money, make sure the company will back you up with repairs and parts.

Warranty
If you are spending the kind of money it takes to buy an elliptical machine, it is always a good idea to check out the warranty that comes with the product. You will find that the warranties for elliptical trainers vary substantially, so you no doubt will want to do some homework here.

Help & Support
Since elliptical trainers generally are a sizable investment, it is important to have easy and helpful contact with the company. This will come in handy for such things as assembly (if you do it yourself) and getting answers to any problems that might arise.

No matter which of the elliptical machines you end up buying for your home gym, if it has these basic characteristics, it will no doubt be a good buy. And if you use it regularly, especially with guidance from your doctor, you will certainly see and feel positive results.