An elliptical cross trainer machine is a cardio equipment that simulates the natural movement of running or walking. It's an excellent low-impact option for those with joint pain or injuries and provides a full-body workout.
However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right elliptical for your needs. In this article, we'll discuss some key factors to consider when buying an elliptical machine Dubai.
Factors to consider:
Planning to buy a cross trainer online or offline? Here are the factors to consider:
- Stride Length
The stride length is the distance between the pedals of the elliptical. Choosing an elliptical with a stride length that feels comfortable for your body size and natural stride is essential. Most ellipticals have a stride length between 18-22 inches.
If you're taller or have a longer stride, look for an elliptical with a longer stride length. If you're shorter or have a shorter stride, look for an elliptical with a shorter length.
- Resistance Levels
Resistance is what makes an elliptical workout challenging. The more resistance, the more complex the workout. Look for an elliptical with various resistance levels to accommodate your fitness level and ability to increase as you improve.
Some ellipticals have manual resistance, where you adjust the resistance by turning a knob, while others have electronic resistance, where you can adjust the resistance with the push of a button.
- Built-in Programs
Many ellipticals come with built-in workout programs, such as hill climb, interval training, and weight loss programs. These programs can add variety to your workouts and help you achieve your fitness goals. If you're someone who likes structure in your workout, look for an elliptical with built-in programs.
- Heart Rate Monitor
A heart rate monitor allows you to track your heart rate during a workout and ensure that you are in your target heart rate zone. This is important for those who want to track their progress and ensure they get the most out of their workout. Some ellipticals come with a built-in heart rate monitor, while others require a separate chest strap.
- Size and Weight Capacity
Make sure the elliptical will fit in the space you have available and can support your weight. Measure the space where you plan to put the elliptical, and check the dimensions of the elliptical before you buy. Also, check the weight capacity of the elliptical to make sure it can support your weight.
- Price
Ellipticals can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget and look for a machine that fits within it and also meets your needs. Keep in mind that a more expensive elliptical may have more features, such as built-in programs, a heart rate monitor, or a longer stride length.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty
Consider the reputation of the brand, read reviews from other customers and check the warranty offered with the elliptical. Researching a company's reputation will give you an idea of the quality of their products and also the level of customer service you can expect. Also, check the warranty offered with the elliptical. A longer warranty is usually a good indication of the quality of the product.
- Noise Level
If you plan on using the elliptical in a shared space, pay attention to the noise level before making your purchase. Some ellipticals are louder than others, and you don't want to disturb others in your household or apartment complex.
- Additional Features
Some ellipticals come with additional features like built-in speakers, USB charging ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. If you like to listen to music or watch TV while you work out, look for an elliptical with built-in speakers or Bluetooth connectivity.
This will allow you to connect your phone or other device and play music or videos through the elliptical speakers. Additionally, USB charging ports can be a convenient feature to have, as they will allow you to charge your phone or another device while you work out.
- Folding or Non-folding ellipticals
Consider the space you have available in your home and whether or not you need the elliptical to be foldable. Folding ellipticals are a great option for those who have limited space, as they can be easily stored away when not in use. However, non-folding ellipticals tend to be more stable and durable.
- Quality of construction
Ellipticals can be made of different materials and the quality of construction. Look for ellipticals that are made of sturdy and durable materials, such as steel frames. Also, check for the quality of the pedals, handlebars and other parts, as they are the ones that are in constant use.
Why should you consider buying an elliptical machine?
There are several reasons why someone might consider buying an elliptical machine:
- Low-Impact Exercise: One of the biggest benefits of using an elliptical machine is that it provides a low-impact workout.
Unlike running or jogging, which can be hard on the joints, an elliptical machine allows you to get a cardiovascular workout without putting stress on your knees, ankles, and hips.
- Full-Body Workout: An elliptical machine provides a full-body workout, as it works out your lower body (legs, glutes, and calves) and upper body (arms, shoulders, and back) simultaneously. This can help to increase muscle tone and burn more calories in a shorter amount of time.
- Variety of Workouts: Many elliptical machines come with built-in workout programs, such as hill climb, interval training, and weight loss programs, which can provide variety to your workouts and help you achieve your fitness goals.
- Convenience: An elliptical machine can be a convenient option for those who want to work out at home. It doesn't take up a lot of space, and it can be used at any time without the need to go to a gym or wait for equipment to become available.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Some ellipticals come with built-in heart rate monitors, which can help you to track your heart rate during a workout and ensure that you are in your target heart rate zone.
- Adjustability: Many ellipticals offer resistance and incline adjustments, allowing you to customise your workout to your fitness level and goals.
- Durability: Ellipticals are built to last and withstand regular use, with some ellipticals having a weight capacity of over 300 lbs.
An elliptical machine is an excellent option for those looking for a low-impact, full-body workout with the convenience of working out at home. With a variety of workout programs, heart rate monitoring, and adjustability options, an elliptical machine can help you achieve your fitness goals and also be an investment for long-term use.
Who should use an elliptical machine?
An elliptical machine can be a great option for a variety of people, including:
- People with joint pain or injuries: Because an elliptical machine provides a low-impact workout, it can be a great option for people with joint pain or injuries, such as knee or ankle pain.
- People with limited space: An elliptical machine can be a great option for people with limited space, as it doesn't take up a lot of room and can be easily stored away when not in use.
- People looking for a full-body workout: An elliptical machine provides a full-body workout, working out the lower body (legs, glutes, and calves) and upper body (arms, shoulders, and back) simultaneously.
- People who want to work out at home: An elliptical machine can be a convenient option for those who want to work out at home without the need to go to a gym or wait for equipment to become available.
- People looking for a cardio workout: An elliptical machine provides a cardiovascular workout and can help to increase cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
- People looking for weight loss: An elliptical machine can be a great tool for weight loss, as it can help to burn calories and increase muscle tone.
- Elderly People: Ellipticals are a great option for elderly people who want to maintain their cardiovascular fitness, as the low-impact nature of the workout is easy on the joints.
- People recovering from injuries or surgeries: An elliptical machine can be a great option for people recovering from injuries or surgeries, as it provides a low-impact workout that can help to increase strength and mobility.
Who shouldn't use an elliptical machine?
Certain groups of people may not be suitable candidates for using an elliptical machine, including:
- People with severe balance issues: An elliptical machine requires a certain level of balance and coordination. Those with severe balance issues may find it difficult to use an elliptical machine safely.
- People with lower body injuries or surgeries: People who have recent lower body surgeries or injuries may not be able to use an elliptical machine. It's always best to consult with a medical professional before starting any exercise program.
- Pregnant women: Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before using an elliptical machine.
- People with knee or ankle pain: While an elliptical machine is a low-impact workout, it may not be suitable for people with knee or ankle pain, as it can aggravate the pain.
- People with very limited mobility: An elliptical machine requires a certain level of mobility, so people with very limited mobility may not be able to use it effectively.
- People who are very overweight: People who are very overweight may find an elliptical machine challenging to use, as it puts a lot of stress on the joints.
- People who have certain medical conditions: People who have certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, should consult with their doctor before using an elliptical machine.
It's always important to consult with a medical professional before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries.
What are the different types of elliptical machines?
- Front-drive ellipticals: These ellipticals have the flywheel located at the front of the machine. The pedals are in front of the flywheel, and the user's feet are in front of the pedals. This type of elliptical tends to be more compact, making it a good choice for people with limited space.
- Rear-drive ellipticals: These ellipticals have the flywheel located at the back of the machine. The pedals are behind the flywheel, and the user's feet are behind the pedals. This type of elliptical tends to be larger and more stable, making it a good choice for people who want a more stable workout.
- Centre-drive ellipticals: These ellipticals have the flywheel located in the centre of the machine. The pedals are on either side of the flywheel, and the user's feet are in front of the pedals. This type of elliptical tends to be more stable and provides a more natural feel, making it a good choice for people who want a more natural workout.
- Dual-action ellipticals: These ellipticals provide a full-body workout, as they have moving handles that work the upper body in addition to the lower body.
- Folding ellipticals: These ellipticals can be folded up for easy storage, making them a good choice for people with limited space. They are also lightweight and easy to move around.
- Standing ellipticals: These ellipticals are designed to mimic the motion of walking or running while standing up. They are taller than traditional ellipticals and are more suitable for taller people.
- Recumbent ellipticals: These ellipticals have a seat and backrest, providing a more comfortable and relaxed workout experience. They are ideal for people with back or joint pain or for those who are recovering from injuries or surgeries.
- Hybrid ellipticals: These ellipticals combine the features of a traditional elliptical with a stepper machine or a bike, providing a more intense and varied workout.
- Smart ellipticals: These ellipticals are equipped with smart features such as Bluetooth connectivity, interactive training, and customised workout programs. They can be synced with fitness apps, and you can track your progress.
Ellipticals come in various types, each with unique features and designs. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing an elliptical machine. The varieties go from compact, stable, natural, full-body, foldable, standing, to recumbent, hybrid, and smart.
What size elliptical do I need?
The size of an elliptical machine you need will depend on several factors, including:
- Space availability: Measure the space where you plan to put the elliptical and compare it to the dimensions of the elliptical you're considering. Make sure the elliptical will fit in the space you have available.
- Stride length: Consider your natural stride length and choose an elliptical with a stride length that feels comfortable for your body size. Most ellipticals have a stride length between 18-22 inches. If you're taller or have a longer stride, look for an elliptical with a longer stride length. If you're shorter or have a shorter stride, look for an elliptical with a shorter stride length.
- Weight capacity: Check the weight capacity of the elliptical to make sure it can support your weight.
- User height: If you are taller than average, consider getting an elliptical with a longer stride length or a standing elliptical.
- Storage: If you have limited storage space, consider getting a folding elliptical or one that can be easily stored away when not in use.
- Intended use: If you are using the elliptical for commercial purposes, like in a gym or fitness centre, a larger and more sturdy elliptical might be needed.
When choosing the size of an elliptical machine, it's important to consider your space availability, stride length, weight capacity, user height, storage, and intended use. Considering these factors, you'll be able to choose the right size elliptical for your needs and achieve your fitness goals.
Does elliptical burn belly fat?
An elliptical machine can be an effective tool for burning belly fat. However, it's important to note that spot reduction is not possible. To burn belly fat, you need to burn calories overall and reduce your overall body fat.
To burn belly fat, you need to create a calorie deficit by burning more calories than you take in. An elliptical machine can be a great tool for burning calories, as it provides a low-impact, full-body workout that can help to increase your heart rate and burn calories.
In addition to cardio exercise, it's important to also include strength training to build muscle increase your metabolism and watch your diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in processed foods and added sugars can help to reduce belly fat.
An elliptical machine can be an effective tool for burning calories and losing belly fat, but it should be combined with a healthy diet and strength training to achieve the best results.
In conclusion, an elliptical machine is a great cardio equipment that can provide a low-impact, full-body workout. When buying an elliptical, consider the stride length, resistance levels, built-in programs, heart rate monitor, size and weight capacity, price, brand reputation and warranty, noise level, additional features, folding or non-folding, and quality of construction. By taking the time to consider these factors, you'll be able to choose the right elliptical for your needs and achieve your fitness goals.
