The fact that this workout machine gets slack for being ‘boring’ or ‘ineffective’ is actually quite silly. Elliptical machines have a range of benefits, from calorie-torching to giving lots of opportunities to make your workout enjoyable. With the following 7 benefits in mind, you just might change your opinion of these simple, yet effective machines.
They’re great for everyone
All ages, levels of fitness, and even those with injuries can use them. It’s an easy motion to get the hang of, and it’s low-impact, so for people with sore joints or recovering from injuries, you can still get a good workout in.
You’ll find them everywhere
Most gyms – even the ones with a basic cardio area, will have at least one elliptical. And since many people are still unaware of the real benefits of them, they are often free waiting for you to use!
Great for your heart
Cardiovascular fitness is a must for everyone. You need a strong heart to live healthy and ward off disease, and that happens through any exercise that raises your heart rate. Ellipticals can raise your pulse sometimes even more than treadmills. When your heart rate raises, you get the benefit of burning a ton of calories. Just 30 minutes at a high intensity is super effective for people working out for weight loss.
It’s a full-body workout
This is why an elliptical is also called a cross-trainer. You can get a full-body blast by moving your arms along with your legs, or even using hand weights. Don’t just go through the motions of letting your legs move your arms, though. Put some energy into your arm swing to get them pumping and receive the benefits.
Enjoy a variety of workouts
You’ll find different programs on most ellipticals to optimize your workout by choosing a resistance level or interval training. This helps to keep the boredom at bay and actually gives you harder or easier workouts depending on how you feel.
Low impact
As mentioned above, an elliptical is perfect for people with joint issues, as your feet never leave your pedals. This takes the strain off your knees, hips and lower back. It’s great for preventing injury as well, even if you don’t have joint problems.
Multitasking
It’s true that for a lot of the cardio equipment at the gym you can multitask, though an elliptical can be extra easy (who else has almost tripped whilst writing emails on a treadmill?) Catch up on your favorite show, send messages, make calls, or grab a good book and read. You’ll forget you’re even working up a sweat.
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/elliptical-benefits
https://www.verywellfit.com/why-use-elliptical-trainers-3436596
