Elliptical exercisers provide a calorie-burning workout that is free of some of the problems experienced by other machines. However consumer reports and reviews advise that quality-control problems are a major factor.
Elliptical exercisers are a combination stair-climber/cross-country-ski simulator. The motion of your feet is in flattened circles or ovals (otherwise known as an ellipse), hence the name elliptical machine. The value of the workout depends on resistance that slows down the elliptical machines drive system as you try to turn it. Some elliptical machines use a band or belt driven drive system; nicer more expensive models use magnetic force to create resistance.
Consumer Reports
Elliptical machines have become popular for a few reasons:
· The pedaling is low impact and therefore joint friendly.
· Exercise on an elliptical machine is weight-bearing. This helps ward off osteoporosis.
· Movable arms are available on some models. This adds an upper-body benefit to the workout.
· Exercising on an elliptical machine is easy. Some cross country ski machines require a little coordination.
· An elliptical machine burns calories just as effectively as a treadmill.
Elliptical machines are best suited for a person who is moderately fit and probably will stay at that level. Beginning exercisers will find them difficult while advanced exercisers may not find the workout very challenging. What follows is a recap of the Consumer Report findings on elliptical machines.
WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Most elliptical machines with a price tag under 00 are made by a company called Icon Fitness and sold under the brand names of Reebok, Nordic Track, and Proform brands among others. Typically Icon distributes through larger stores like Sears and The Sports Authority. Machines costing up to ,000 are sold either by sports specialty stores or online under such well known brands as Precor and Life Fitness. Higher end machines tend to feel more stable and solid, operation is smoother and they usually have more features than the models coming in under ,000.
HOW TO CHOOSE
Quality control problems were the main problem with elliptical machines tested by Consumer Reports. Clunking noises, broken parts and scraping surfaces were all common. When you shop, look for a warranty of at least a year or more. You will probably be happier with an elliptical machine equipped with an easily read monitor, understandable controls, and pushbutton resistance adjustment.
Things to watch out for include narrow pedals and moving arms that can whack you a good one when you are not holding the handles. When you try out elliptical machines in a store, make sure you are comfortable with the operation as it will vary between machines.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Elliptical exercisers can provide a decent low impact workout that is friendly to the joints. Do not expect a residential model to match the quality of commercial versions. Be realistic.
Elliptical Machine - Consumer Report Consumer Reports
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