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What is an Elliptical Trainer?

An elliptical trainer is a stationary exercise machine used to simulate walking or running without causing excessive pressure to the joints, hence decreasing the risk of impact injuries.They offer a non-impact cardiovascular workout that can vary from light to high intensity based on the resistance preference. Most elliptical trainers work the user’s upper and lower body in order to elevate the heart rate.Elliptical trainers make ideal training equipment for trainees that need to minimize the impact on their bones and joints. Some of the better manufacturers include Sole, Epic, and Schwinn.

Arm Resistance Handles

While you really don’t need these for an effective workout, many people prefer them. Arm resistance helps to provide training for your upper body and results in an increase in calories burned. However, trainees must make sure they do not have to lean over while using them, which would diminish the effectiveness of the workout.

Variable Motion, Resistance, and Incline Settings

The ability of an elliptical trainer to move in a forward or reverse motion adds variety and challenge to your workout. This change in motion allows the trainee to work different sets of muscles and results in more calories burned overall.Elliptical trainers also reduce your risk of repetitive use injuries common with some treadmill and stair climber users.

Quality elliptical trainers will have a range of resistance and incline levels, which help to increase calories burned. In order to challenge their bodies, trainees typically increase the resistance and inclineas fitness levels improve. Look for an elliptical trainer that makes both resistance and incline changes simple so that interval training sessions can be easily incorporated into your workout.

Some of the top models such as Sole ellipticals, Epic ellipticals, and Schwinn ellipticalsoffer adjustable incline levels, variable motion, and variable resistance on many of their models.

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