Irrespective to the contrary belief that an elliptical machine is dull and worthless and no good in the gym I have always loved it. The best elliptical trainers are as good as on any other cardio machines like the treadmill, C2 Model D rowing machine etc. and how effective your workout turns out rests on the efforts you put in.
So before you skip past this machine again here are few tried and tested reasons this often ignored cardio equipment actually rocks.
It’s easy to do
Barring a serious injury the elliptical trainer is the perfect workout machine irrespective of your age and fitness level as it’s a low impact machine. Unlike an elliptical machine the treadmill can wear out your knees and ankles in the long run.
The movement is easy to figure out thus eliminating the need for a trainer or manual so rather than getting intimidated by other new equipments you can kick start your first day at the gym rather comfortably.
Helps with recovery
Before you step on to the trainer for your post injury rehab do ensure you get the go ahead from your medic. An elliptical trainer is the perfect machine to rebuild hip strength and movement which is ideal for runners and cyclists looking to get back into the game quickly.
It is also the workout recommended by most fitness coaches and experts for post ACL surgeries and serious head trauma rehab. Doctors recommend it to heart patients as well since it’s known to improve balance, endurance and flexibility.
Fits well into a busy schedule
Are you running late for work? The 10 minute treadmill workout is fun but always requires a post workout shower to get rid of the foul sweaty odour and if you’re a lunchtime workout beast running out of time, getting out and back to work ASAP becomes priority.
Switching to an elliptical machine provides greater control over the intensity of the workout thus preventing you from being a sweaty mess and allowing a couple more minutes on the trainer instead of the shower.
The workout rocks
Quality of the workout rests on your will and determination but research suggests that an elliptical trainer gives similar results as other cardio machines like the treadmill, rowing machine etc. if you put in similar effort.
To crank it up you can adjust the incline, manipulate the resistance and speed. Each variation will engage different muscles like your core, butt etc. plus unlike on a treadmill multitasking on an elliptical machine is comparatively simpler.
It works the upper body too
Combining a treadmill workout with a few bodyweight exercises can provide the results you’re expecting but if you’re looking for a quick fire yet effective total body workout then the elliptical trainer is a must buy and worth every penny spent.
Gripping the handles right and maintaining the right posture or just grabbing onto a couple of dumbbells and doing 2-3 shoulder press sets will ensure your upper body gets trained equally.
