The Benefits of Elliptical Machines

One of the equipments that most trainers tend to give a side-eye at the gym is the elliptical machine. That is because it is a stationary exercise bike used to walk, run, and stair climb without causing a lot of pressure to the joints. 

Because the machine is stationary, some quarters tend to think that it is ineffective and annoying. And they have even gone to the extent of calling it the lazy machine.

But that is changing. This shift could be because those who dared use it are touting the impressive results or because of multiple reports from various scientists and gym training experts.

Today, elliptical machines offer many benefits, and you might even consider getting one for home workouts now that in most gyms, they are becoming a favorite.

Elliptical machines or cross-trainers range in price from around $100, and some are over $1000. That said, it is quite clear that before you get this machine, there are features that you need to check to get your purchase right. So let us have a look at elliptical trainers advantages.

1) Strengthens Weak Leg Muscles

When working out on an elliptical machine, the movements you make target hamstrings and quadriceps. 

Several reliable studies show that this machine does a better job than running on a treadmill, cycling, or even jogging. It means that if you have a problem with your leg muscles or need to make them stronger, an elliptical machine is a better choice. 

Another great reason to use this machine to strengthen the leg muscles is that you can pedal in reverse motion, which is a plus to attaining your fitness goal.

2) Impact Free

One of the reasons why many people want to be on the elliptical machine is because it is impact-free. That means it doesn't cause any pain on your bones or jolts. What's more, you don't have to move your feet away from the pedal.  

When you compare it to other exercises such as running or cycling, this is the exercise machine that can save you from knee or joints injuries.

3) Getting Rid of Belly Fat

If you ask many people what they struggle with the most as far as health and fitness are concerned, they'll tell you they have an issue with weight. And for most people, it has something to do with belly fat. 

Belly fat can be stubborn, but performing the right exercises can enable you to lose it quickly. And one of the best ways to do that is to use an elliptical machine. 

To get the most out of the machine, you should combine it with other practical exercises such as body training. Notably, elliptical machine exercises are a type of aerobic workouts, which are the best and fastest ways to lose belly fat.

Having belly fat can cause diabetes, heart diseases, and put you at risk of other diseases such as blood pressure. The benefit of using an elliptical machine to work on your belly is that it also engages your arms and legs.

4) Improved Mobility and Balance

Training on the elliptical machine mimics the natural motion of running or walking. As such, if you have suffered from hip damage, or you require hip surgery, this can be beneficial. The elliptical machine helps your hips to regain their full range of motion and, while at it, improve your balance. 

5) You Get a Full Body Workout

Although an elliptical machine is stationary, you should not be worried that you are not going to derive maximum results from it. While at it, you do not feel like you are working out, but the most amazing thing is that you are! The machine works on your leg muscles, arm muscles, and of course, the abdominal muscles. Some elliptical machines even come with moving poles that you can hang onto to exercise your arms.

6) Increase Your Aerobic Capacity

Your body can only process a maximum rate of consumption when you are exercising.  You find that for some people, they have to make frequent pauses during exercise so that they can catch a breath. 

While using an elliptical machine, you increase the maximum rate that your body can hold. That way, you can exercise more and even harder; this goes a long way to increase your stamina and endurance.

7) Maximize Your Training

When training, you want to know that you are burning calories, and the more you can burn, the better! Elliptical machines are good for this because as the stride length increases, so do the number of calories you burn.

8) Easy To Use 

Elliptical machines may be pricey. Some models may even take a big space in your house or garage. But like stationary bikes, they’re downright very easy to use. 

You just step onto it, push a few buttons, choose the settings and you are good to go. And while at it, you can even multitask. Do you have a show that you want to binge-watch? A book that you find too interesting to pause on reading? You can comfortably continue with other activities while still exercising.