Rec and Sports

Why Elliptical Trainers Are Quickly Replacing Treadmills

The treadmill has been the generic method of exercising in the gym for many years. That fact is now crumbling, as the elliptical trainer is quickly becoming the more popular option. As it turns out, they are safer and more efficient- and the science behind them is simple to understand.

When you take up running as a hobby, you have to learn how to run and under what posture. Otherwise the method of running could ruin key areas of your body such as the ankle or knee. Even with all the precaution in the world, the shock damage you receive each time your foot slams on the ground will add to the wear and tear of your lower body. Elliptical machines are better, as your feet never leave the pedal.

Like the treadmill, it would be a poor idea to use the machine for strength training. The elliptical machine is almost exactly like the act of running- which we all know is great for a cardiovascular workout that does little for muscle building. If you do want to build muscle, it is recommended you look in other machines or methods instead- yet keep the elliptical training in your workout routine as well.

Experts agree that if you want the best workout possible, you should be switching the slope and the stride of the machine every so often. Much like you would want to use a free weight in different positions, changing these settings will work different sections of the lower and upper body. That way you can get a more thorough workout, and burn fat in more than just a single targeted area of your body.

Manufacturers like to tout the fact that using an elliptical trainer correctly can promote better balance and posture. Tight-rope stunt artists agree that the more you practice your balance, the better you will become. Elliptical machines require balance to operate, so in time your balance will see an improvement. The improvement may not be so drastic that you can walk a tight-rope, but it will be nice to have more balance when going about your daily activities at work and home.

Two forms of elliptical trainers exist: home and commercial models. You really don’t need the commercial models, which are built to sustain a lot of abuse over a long period of time. These expensive models are best purchased by gym owners- not your average home owner. Personal models can be as inexpensive as a few hundred dollars, and going up to around $500 and more. Financing them is easy enough if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Don’t put your body through the stress of running- you will start to feel the effects in only several years. Instead decrease the burden on your body and look into buying an elliptical machine. If that isn’t possible, look into a local gym membership.