Choosing Your Elliptical

Let's focus on how to choose an elliptical machine. First of all, don't rush into things. Take enough time to perform an elliptical trainer comparison because it will not only save you money in the long run... it will also improve your ability to gain maximum results from your exercise routine.

Using an elliptical training system will help you avoid injuring your knees, hips, back and ankles. You will burn about the same number of calories as you would when jogging.

But, you can exercise on elliptical equipment at any time, no matter how ugly the weather might be outside. The question then becomes... what elliptical trainer should you buy?  And, how much should you be willling to spend?

There are literally dozens of manufacturers and hundreds of models available in the elliptical marketplace.  In fact, it can be overwhelming.  Therefore, the first thing to do is honestly identify your goal in owning an elliptical.

For example, are you simply trying to get a little exercise every day to supplement your routine activities around the home or office?  Are you trying to lose weight over a period of time, so you can eventually look closer to what you were 10 years ago?  Are you determined to get that body of yours into last year's bathing suit before next season's beach time comes along?

In other words, don't buy something just because you think you will get any old benefit from its use.  Instead, buy it with a specific purpose in mind... one that you can measure and to which you will hold yourself accountable.  For heaven's sake, don't throw money away on just another fad or whimsical dream.

Make an informed comparison of as many elliptical training machines as you can.  Use this website and others to actually compare features as well as price.  And, take time to read the reviews of each machine whereever you find them.  Remember, most of these machines are very heavy and not easily disassembled or moved from place to place.  Don't rush your purchase decision.

Start by measuring the room in which you will be using the elliptical machine. Actually write down the measurements... don't just commit them to memory because you are going to get confused once you begin looking at the various sizes and shapes of the equipment. 

And, if someone other than yourself is going to use the trainer make sure you account for any extra height that would be necessary.  You might be 5 feet tall and able to perform comfortably on an elliptical located in your low ceiling basement, but someone over 6 feet tall might have difficulty.

Next, consider what kind of noise level is tolerable.  If you plan to use your elliptical machine and watch television or listen to music at the same time, you want as little machine noise as possible.

When you read product reviews about elliptical machines one common complaint seems to be the amount of sound generated during the exercise routine.  Most of the time - but not always - the lower price range units produce excessive noise.

Look for a wide span of resistance settings.  You want to be challenged during your workout, so that your intensity progresses as your level of fitness improves on the trainer.

Also, make sure you have sufficient stride capabilities... not only for you but also for anyone else who might use the elliptical.  The 14 inch stride pattern might fit your purposes, but the 21 inch might be better for your partner or family member.

Your budget will most likely be a major factor in your final decision.  Like most things, you get what you pay for in quality performance.  However, don't lose sight that you can save money by not adding such features as built-in calorie counters, timers or MP3 player ports.

In other words, you might still consider the higher quality machine, but without unnecessary bells and whistles. Remember to look for the best warranty available for your price range.  Elliptical trainers are simply machines... and they do break.

Most elliptical trainers give you a total body workout because of the dual action handlebars for arms and foot pedals for legs. Interestingly, the lack of impact on the joints allows you to burn roughly the same total calories as you would burn using a treadmill.

One aspect about elliptical trainers is you can add variety to your aerobic workout systems. For example, you have the option to not use the handlebars and, instead, focus more attention on your lower body.

An excellent benefit derived from ellipticals is the forward and reverse feature of the foot pedals. Going forward simulates the action associated with a cross country skier hitting the big slopes. But, when you reverse the motion of the pedal you are able to focus upon your lower body and target the quadricep muscles.

If you are serious about using your elliptical system for an ongoing period of time, you will probably lean towards the higher end product depending on your budget. There is nothing wrong in buying a bargain at Walmart, but it's also true that more long lasting quality will be found in more expensive units like Precor or Sole.

(By the way, there is nothing wrong with buying a used elliptical machine, as long as you understand the risks... especially the fact that you may not be eligible to get any warranty on a used piece of exercise equipment.)

Life Fitness elliptical machines were originally found only in gyms, but fortunately Life Fitness (a division of the Brunswick Corporation) decided to enter the crosstrainer home equipment business.  They aren't cheap, but the special attention to research and ergonomic design makes them quite popular with serious users.

The Star Trac elliptical selection features their E Series Total Body Trainer, which is the first machine to integrate strength training into a cardio program for a total body workout.  They have partnered with BMW Group designworksUSA to offer an open step design, a natural elliptical motion and... by simply pushing a button... you can adjust the upper arms to choose from a pushing or pulling upper body motion.  They have an extensive selection of great trainers, to include the 8320 Recumbent Elliptical.

If you can find a Schwinn 418 Elliptical Trainer in good condition, you should give it serious consideration because it is a well built machine at a very reasonable price.  Problem is they are hard to find since production was discontinued.

ICON Heath and Fitness owns several equipment related companies including NordicTrack and ProForm.  The NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 PRO Elliptical at around $1,000 is a quality machine that deserves your attention.  And, the ProForm 790E Elliptical, normally priced at $1,299 can probably be found at a huge discount, if you will take time to explore offerings from such sites as Amazon and Overstock.  The ProForm elliptical trainer selection is extensive and priced fairly.

One basic prerequisite is to determine where you will operate and store your elliptical. Remember that these things can be quite heavy, so if you live by yourself be sure to give some serious thought to this issue because once your fitness machine is in place it is no walk in the park to move it.

If possible, get a unit with an adjustable incline because it will help to intensity your workout sessions. Other issues to consider relate to noise and how smooth the motion is as you work the pedals. Some less expensive models have a jerky and noisy operation.

Ideally, your trainer should be programmed for both warm-up and cool-down periods, as well as provide convenient handrails for balance. And, don't forget to have a heart monitor so you don't inadvertently overtask yourself. Finally, get the best warranty you can buy... even an extended warranty might prove valuable.

And, don't forget to find out about delivery charges or set-up fees. Be very careful about who will be available to service your elliptical. Even the best known names today can go out of business without notice.

One easy way to begin your selection process for the right elliptical exercise machine is to go to amazon.com and search for the generic term "ellipticals". When I did this it returned 3,900 results the first of which was for the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer priced new at $599.

But, what you really want to look for is the number of reviews from others who have actually purchased the product. In my example, there were 502 reviews (both good and not so good) about this particular model.

By starting with Amazon, you can begin to educate yourself about what is available in the marketplace, plus get literally thousands of individual reviews from people who at one point in their lives were looking to buy a fitness elliptical machine... just like you. 

 Tags: ellipticals elliptical trainer elliptical machine used exercise equipment