Elliptical Machine Benefits

What Is an Elliptical Machine?

An elliptical machine is a versatile piece of fitness equipment that combines the elements of a stair climber, stationary bike and cross-country ski machine. It’s designed to simulate walking, jogging or running without the negative impact on the joints that can occur when exercising on hard surfaces or for some – using traditional treadmills.

The elliptical machine’s operation involves a smooth and elliptical pedal movement, which can provide a full-body workout by engaging both the lower and upper body simultaneously.

This combination of movements makes it an ideal choice for individuals of all fitness levels and those looking for a low-impact cardio option.

Different Types of Elliptical Machines

To cater to various fitness needs and preferences, there are different types of elliptical machines. Below, we look at the five most common types of elliptical machines that users can come across:

1. Front-Drive Ellipticals: Front-drive elliptical machines feature a flywheel located at the front, typically covered by casing. These ellipticals provide a smooth and natural stride motion, making them popular among beginners. Front-drive ellipticals often come with various workout programmes and adjustable resistance levels.

2. Rear-Drive Ellipticals: Unlike the front-drive machines, rear-drive elliptical trainers have the flywheel positioned at the back. This design offers a more elliptical stride path, closely mimicking natural walking or running.

3. Center-Drive Ellipticals: Centre-drive option, also known as lateral drive, have two smaller flywheels located on either side, with the pedals moving in a back-and-forth motion.

4. Elliptical Cross-Trainers: Many elliptical machines come equipped with moving handlebars that provide a full-body workout. Elliptical cross trainers allow users to engage their upper body while simultaneously working their lower body.

5. Elliptical Bikes/Hybrid Ellipticals: Elliptical bikes, sometimes called hybrid ellipticals, combine the benefits of elliptical machines and stationary bikes. These machines have a seat and handlebars like a traditional stationary bike, however, their pedal motion resembles that of an elliptical trainer.

Benefits of Using an Elliptical Machine

Elliptical machines offer a wide range of benefits that cater to people of all fitness levels and goals. Some of the advantages include:

1. Low-Impact Exercise: Elliptical machines are renowned for their joint-friendly designs. They provide a smooth and low-impact workout, which is ideal for individuals with joint issues or people making a recovery from injuries. The elliptical motion can reduce the risk of impact-related injuries that some can experience when running, jogging and during exercises alike.

2. Full-Body Workout: Unlike some cardio machines that primarily engage the lower body, elliptical trainers work both the upper and lower body muscles simultaneously. This results in a comprehensive workout that targets various muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, core, triceps and shoulders, as well as biceps and your back muscles. The involvement of both upper and lower body muscles during elliptical workouts can also lead to efficient calorie burning, lending a hand for those looking to shed excess pounds and maintain a healthy weight.

3. Cardiovascular Conditioning: Workouts involving an elliptical machine are highly effective in improving cardiovascular health. These machines elevate your heart rate and increase lung capacity, contributing to enhanced overall fitness and endurance. Consistent use can lead to improved stamina and better cardiovascular health overall.

4. Versatility: Many elliptical machines come equipped with pre-programmed workouts, allowing users to tailor their exercise to specific fitness objectives. These programmes involve a variety of training styles such as interval training and hill climbing, providing a diverse and engaging workout experience. The versatility can be key in keeping users motivated and exercises interesting. Elliptical trainers are also an excellent choice for cross-training, offering significant benefits to those who engage in other forms of exercise. They are particularly beneficial for runners and cyclists, providing a lower-impact workout option, which can be crucial in balancing high-impact training sessions.

5. Increases Mobility and Balance: Using an elliptical machine can significantly benefit balance and mobility, essential for overall physical health. The design of elliptical trainers requires synchronised movement of the arms and legs, challenging the body’s proprioceptive system and enhancing body awareness and balance. The machine’s stable platform is ideal for those with balance issues, while its dynamic movement aids in improving mobility. Regular use of elliptical machine can enhance neuromuscular coordination, improving the nervous system’s ability to control muscles in complex activities. Elliptical machines can also be beneficial for gait training, offering a safe environment for those recovering or dealing with gait-affecting conditions.