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Faizan
When shopping for an elliptical machine for your home gym, you're going to be faced with a variety of machines in a variety of price ranges. While you might not immediately see the difference between a $800 machine and a $2,800 machine, knowing the components of an elliptical can help you make better purchasing decisions. Do your homework before you shop and you'll easily be able to see the difference between elliptical machines lined up at the fitness supply store.
Size and Stride
You'll notice that there is a wide range of normal when it comes to elliptical size. The size of the machine is often related to the stride length -- the length of the motion of your foot as it pedals around. Larger machines often have more room for a wider stride, while smaller, more compact machines might force you into a smaller stride. It's a matter of personal preference and the space you have for your elliptical -- measure before you buy and test out various machines and stride lengths. The Mayo Clinic points out that posture is the most important component -- you should be able to stride with your shoulders back, head up and your core engaged.
Console Features
Some economy ellipticals lack a console, but most mid- to high-end brands have an electronic console on the front of the machine. This console controls everything from the elliptical resistance and difficulty to your music. Console features can range from an MP3 jack, so you can listen to your music without headphones, to a water bottle holder so your hydration is close at hand. Some consoles also feature heart-rate monitors so you can check your heart rate while exercising. When deciding between elliptical machines, remember that more features could be more complicated while exercising. Choose the ones you'll actually use for the best experience.
Programming
The console will control your elliptical machine's programming. Some machines are more straight-forward -- hop on, adjust the resistance and off you go. Others allow you to choose programs that include interval training, hill climbing or a specific time limit. If you're liable to get bored during your workouts, a variety of programs built into the console might be a better idea than a monotonous workout. Playing with the various programs and resistance levels in-store can give you a better idea as to which machines give you the most bang -- and versatility -- for your buck.
Drive
There are two types of elliptical drives -- front and rear. The drive refers to the location of the actual elliptical movement. Front-drive machines are typically less expensive than rear drive and often smaller too, but The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) notes that most users prefer a rear drive machine, pointing out that a rear drive simulates a natural stride better and usually offers adjustable pedals. The ACSM recommends that if you choose a front drive, you look for articulating pedals or risk a jerky, unnatural stride.
Size and Stride
You'll notice that there is a wide range of normal when it comes to elliptical size. The size of the machine is often related to the stride length -- the length of the motion of your foot as it pedals around. Larger machines often have more room for a wider stride, while smaller, more compact machines might force you into a smaller stride. It's a matter of personal preference and the space you have for your elliptical -- measure before you buy and test out various machines and stride lengths. The Mayo Clinic points out that posture is the most important component -- you should be able to stride with your shoulders back, head up and your core engaged.
Console Features
Some economy ellipticals lack a console, but most mid- to high-end brands have an electronic console on the front of the machine. This console controls everything from the elliptical resistance and difficulty to your music. Console features can range from an MP3 jack, so you can listen to your music without headphones, to a water bottle holder so your hydration is close at hand. Some consoles also feature heart-rate monitors so you can check your heart rate while exercising. When deciding between elliptical machines, remember that more features could be more complicated while exercising. Choose the ones you'll actually use for the best experience.
Programming
The console will control your elliptical machine's programming. Some machines are more straight-forward -- hop on, adjust the resistance and off you go. Others allow you to choose programs that include interval training, hill climbing or a specific time limit. If you're liable to get bored during your workouts, a variety of programs built into the console might be a better idea than a monotonous workout. Playing with the various programs and resistance levels in-store can give you a better idea as to which machines give you the most bang -- and versatility -- for your buck.
Drive
There are two types of elliptical drives -- front and rear. The drive refers to the location of the actual elliptical movement. Front-drive machines are typically less expensive than rear drive and often smaller too, but The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) notes that most users prefer a rear drive machine, pointing out that a rear drive simulates a natural stride better and usually offers adjustable pedals. The ACSM recommends that if you choose a front drive, you look for articulating pedals or risk a jerky, unnatural stride.
Posted in: Exercise and Fitness
