Things to Compare Before You Buy an Elliptical Trainer

Comparing elliptical trainers is the best way to make the right decision. Before making a decision you will know the pros and cons and be sure which type of machine is best for you. Here are the most important things to consider when buying an elliptical trainer.
Price

Is it worth the price?
Are there any other models with similar features and quality at a better price, or do you pay for some features that you will never use?

Maximum User Weight
Learn the maximum weight capacity. Too much weight will shorten the life of your elliptical.

Length of Stride
Some ellipticals only offer 15 inches which would be too short for many people, so this is also an important factor.

Workout Programs and Interactive Training Options
Does it come with some pre-programmed workout programs for cardio, strength training, or fat burning? So, learn how many pre-programmed workouts come with the elliptical. Some model features interactive workout that as the smart controller on the elliptical will automatically adjust the resistance to keep your heart rate within a margin or to challenge you.

Workout Types
Does it also allow different upper body workouts or just the legs and hips?

Heart Rate Monitors
Most elliptical machines come with heart rate monitors, is it wireless? How it measures your heart rate, handlebars, or chest strap. Also, remember many heart rate monitors and calorie counters are not precise, so it is a good idea to research if it is very important for you.

Warranties and Extra Features
Learn what the manufacturer warranty covers, and how long it is before buying your new fitness equipment. Also, there can be some extra features you may find interesting, like internet connectivity, water holder, etc.

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Elliptical Trainers, How Good Are They?

As you must notice elliptical trainer is one of the most popular exercise equipment in many gyms and home gyms. Elliptical machines are a combination of a treadmill and bike that move your legs in an elliptical axis. This equipment reduces the amount of pressure on your joints, which is its most important plus over traditional exercise bike. It also burns more calories than exercise bike since your upper body moves too. They also do not require lots of space. The elliptical is an effective machine to improve cardiovascular health with minimal impact on joints.

Using elliptical trainers are as easy as using treadmill, but here are some tips that may help:

• To use your elliptical machine effectively first learn how to position yourself on it: Keep your shoulders back, your head up and your abdominal muscles tight, also learn how to control resistance and incline, also be sure your equipment is correctly set up. Always bend your knees a little while pedaling.
•  Start with low intensity and do not push too hard at the beginning. To adjust the intensity, use the resistance adjustment, try to pedal faster or adjust the incline level.
•  Most elliptical trainers have a small digital LCD screen to monitor time and burned calories. Also you can adjust the incline with the buttons on the monitor.
•  Backward pedaling makes more pressure on knees than forward pedaling and which allows you to work your calf and hamstring muscles a little bit more than does forward motion. Use the handlebars to work your upper-body. It will also make your legs easier to rotate so add some resistance if you like.

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