How Well Do Elliptical Machines Work?

Elliptical trainers have been slowly growing in popularity over recent years. They boast a good workout that does not put strain on the joints, and are able to exercise the whole body. These are bold claims, and this article will investigate them a little further.

Burning Calories

Burning calories is top of the agenda for many workouts. The simple fact is that ellipticals will help you to burn calories, but how effectively? Using an elliptical trainer provides an aerobic workout that is similar to cross country skiing. This is due to the way in which the pedals replicate a natural elliptical leg movement of walking or running that is smooth and flowing, at the same time as the handlebars involving your upper body. It can also replicate the effects of skiing up a steep incline.

To burn calories you need to increase your heart rate. Any aerobic activity will do this and provide a good cardiovascular workout. As with most fitness equipment, the amount of calories burned per hour will depend on the way you use the machine. With ellipticals, you will generally burn more calories the more you weigh, and according to the setting chosen. It is possible for the elliptical trainer to provide an intense workout if used properly, burning calories and helping you to lose weight.

How to Increase Calorie Burn

To get the most out of the workout try not to use your body weight to push the pedals, rather keep your hips level and try not to bounce. This creates a more intense workout and therefore more calories are burned. You should also try building the incline every few minutes to intensify the workout. It goes without saying that choosing to use your arms in the workout will add to the calories burned. Most elliptical trainers come with handlebars, but if not you can try holding weights whilst using the machine.

Other techniques used to increase calorie burn include using both the forward and backward directions on the machine. When you change direction, you will be using completely different muscles. This creates variety in your workout which will make your body work harder, so try to switch your routine at regular intervals. You may also get the same effect by breaking your workout into smaller chunks at different times of day, keeping your metabolism high throughout the time in between and after.

Whilst exercise will burn calories, it is important that you do not put them back on after your workout. Use an elliptical trainer alongside a monitored diet and you can certainly lose weight.

Low Impact Workout

One of the main benefits of the elliptical trainer over traditional equipment such as the treadmill is the fact that it is a low-impact workout. This is especially useful for those who have conditions such as arthritis or other joint and bone complaints. The reason ellipticals are so low impact is due to the fact that running is simulated but your feet never leave the pedals. Each time your feet hit a surface such as the ground or a treadmill, your bones will take the impact, but with an elliptical there is no impact.

For general fitness it is important to maintain a healthy bone density. This is done by partaking in weight-bearing activities such as running or aerobics that usually put strain on the joints. Even if you have never been injured, such activities can create new injuries if not properly carried out. Ellipticals provide this weight-bearing activity, helping you to maintain a healthy bone density without the risk to your bones.

Other Factors

The elliptical machine is good for those who find it hard to stick to a regular workout routine. This is due to the fact that the nature of the movements leads to the perception of less exertion but the same benefits when compared to exercising with a treadmill, for example. Not only this but it will place emphasis on areas such as the hip and thighs, which can prove a problem for many.

Conclusion

I have listed a number of ways in which elliptical trainers can work for you. They can help you lose weight and are particularly suitable for those looking for a low impact exercise routine. However, they need to be used properly and, like any piece of fitness equipment, you will not gain optimal results if used improperly. In the case of ellipticals make sure that they are adjusted properly to your size; that you vary the intensity of your workout, and that you maintain a good posture throughout your workout. Follow this simple advice and you can certainly improve your fitness and burn calories with the elliptical trainer.