Elliptical crosstrainers may be low-impact on the joints, but they can have a big impact on your overall fitness. These machines allow you to easily target different muscles groups and customize your cardio so that you get the most out of your workout. Read on to learn about the multi-tasking, beginner-friendly star of many gyms: the elliptical.
The idea behind the elliptical is simple. The machine allows the natural elliptical motion of a person running while lessening the stress placed on joints by supporting the feet with pedals. Since ellipticals are low-impact, they are a great fitness solution for people with past injuries or troublesome joints.
One perk of the elliptical is the opportunity to work arms and legs at the same time. With movable handlebars, the machine allows for a full-body workout. Moving both arms and legs challenges the heart, and when repeated over time, will increase cardio endurance.
The brand Precor revolutionized ellipticals when they introduced the concept of CrossRamp technology, which allows the user to alter the angle of the ramp. This engages different muscles, empowering the user to target the areas he or she would like to work on. With most Precor models, the low position works out quadriceps and glutes; the medium position targets mainly glutes; and high position targets all major lower body muscles, including calves. Many Precor ellipticals include fitness programs that will change the angle of the ramp throughout the workout. This interval training can burn more calories, leading to greater weight loss.
Precor ellipticals have other user-friendly features. They are heavy machines, and their weight provides a solid base for working out on, which helps the user safely use the machine while keeping his or her body properly aligned, without torqueing or twisting. Also, unlike some competitors, Precor designed the foot pedals in such a way that the user’s knee stays behind the toe, while keeping the heel down. This prevents the person using the machine from mimicking a typical running stride, which might produce tingling or numbness in the balls of the feet.
An elliptical may be just the machine you need to succeed at your New Year’s resolution. To learn more about Precor ellipticals and others, check out our selection online or at your local Push Pedal Pull. And hurry in, our big sale ends January 15!