An elliptical cross trainer is a machine that provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout. It can be used for both cardio and strength training exercises. The elliptical motion mimics the natural elliptical motion of walking or running, but without any impact on your joints. This article will tell you 5 things you didn’t know about elliptical trainers so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing one for yourself!
One: Low-Impact
An elliptical cross trainer can be used to provide a low-impact workout, so it is suitable for those with joint problems or injuries. Low impact exercises are often recommended as they reduce the stress on your joints and muscles. This makes elliptical trainers particularly popular among older adults who may have more fragile bones and weaker muscles than younger people.
Two: Full Body Workout
Elliptical trainers work out pretty much every part of your body! They engage around 80% of all major muscle groups, meaning you’ll get a full-body workout from one elliptical session alone! In fact, some studies show that ellipticals actually give you a better lower body workout than running – which means you burn even MORE calories when exercising on an elliptical!
Three: To Burn or Not to Burn
You’ve probably heard ellipticals are great for burning fat. And it’s true – elliptical trainers do burn calories at an impressive rate. But ellipticals aren’t necessarily any better than other cardio equipment like treadmills, rowers, and even exercise bikes when it comes to weight loss.
That said, ellipticals can still be effective if you work out on them regularly (the same goes for all pieces of fitness equipment). If you’re wondering how many calories an elliptical burns in a session, check out this article here. On average though? Around 500-600 per hour depending on your bodyweight and intensity level.
Four: Build Your Balance
Regularly using the elliptical machine can help you improve your balance and stability. This is especially true if the elliptical trainer has a moving handle bar like this one for example—the more complex, the better!
Building up strength in your core will also make it easier to hold yourself upright when standing on both feet (for those of us who aren’t as stable or agile). That’s why ellipticals are good options for people with poor balance since there isn’t much movement needed from our hips down.
Five: It Helps Prevent Injury
People often suffer injuries playing sports such as football, soccer, basketball, and tennis because they’re constantly jumping around on their legs. Elliptical trainers can be an excellent solution here since it doesn’t require too many complicated movements from the hips down.
This is an informational article about elliptical cross trainers, which are machines with moving arm bars instead of pedals. They provide many health benefits including strengthening core muscles as well as making it easier for those who suffer injuries such as poor balance or sports-related injuries.