what you need to know about ellipticals

As the Baby Boomer Generation continues to age, more and more people are enjoying training on low-impact elliptical trainers as a cardiovascular exercise alternative to treadmills. While the Elliptical trainer (aka Elliptical Cross Trainer) has been the fastest growing product segment of the fitness industry for the past 15 years, it can also be the most frustrating purchase decision for the fitness enthusiast. Let us take the mystery out of selecting the right machine for you.

Unlike other cardiovascular exercise equipment, the elliptical machine puts the user’s lower body through a pattern of motion that is unique to each brand. For example, the motion of the pedals on a Precor elliptical, with its patented Cross Ramp Technology, has a feel that is very different than the motion of another very well-known and popular brand, Octane Ellipticals. Often these differences are communicated by the length of stride of the elliptical pattern, which can range from 18 inches to 21 inches on standard units and from 18 inches to 26 inches on adjustable stride machines (described below). While there are other unique features to every elliptical, first and foremost, the user must feel very comfortable with the motion that the elliptical is putting them through if they expect to benefit from the long-term use of the equipment and the other features it offers.

Given this unique feature, you should always visit an American Home Fitness store to try out different ellipticals before making the purchase for your home. Come in equipped to get a workout and introduction to the machines you’re considering and you’ll go home knowing that you’ve picked the machine that’s just right for you and your body. Plus you might have gotten a little bit of a workout too.

If you’re living in a house with others that want to keep up with you and you’re fitness goals, you better believe that they’re not going to sit around and watch you get fit by yourself! Therefore, if others plan to use the machine, you should probably bring them along with you to try out the ellipticals you’re considering so that the all-important elliptical motion fits them as well.