Why You Should Start Using Elliptical Machines

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 those recovering from injuries 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! So if treadmills are not available, give a chance to the ellipticals.

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 sometimes 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 who are 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.

Advantages at a Glance

To sum up, here are the key benefits of elliptical machines:

Accessibility: Suitable for all ages, fitness levels, and injuries.
Availability: Commonly found in most gyms and often available.
Cardiovascular Fitness: Raises heart rate, burns calories, and strengthens heart.
Full-Body Workout: Engages both upper body and legs.
Workout Variety: Offers different workout programs for varying resistance and intervals, some models even have incline.
Low Impact: Reduces strain on knees, hips, and lower back.
Multitasking: Allows activities like watching shows or listening to music.