As you probably know, elliptical trainers, sometimes referred to as cross trainers, are so named because when the pedals on the machines are turned, they trace a path that's not round like on a bicycle, but rather egg-shaped or elliptical. In the past fifteen years or so, these machines have become extremely popular, rivaling treadmills as the number one piece of aerobic exercise equipment.
When elliptical machines first came out, they were very expensive and only seen in commercial gyms. These initial pieces of equipment did not have the arm poles that you see on most ellipticals these days.
Since these initial machines were so popular with exercisers, researchers performed some studies to see how they compared with traditional machines like stationary bikes and treadmills. In addition to finding that ellipticals provided a very low-impact workout, they saw that users of the machines seemed to be able to work out at a higher level of oxygen consumption and heart rate than at the same perceived rate of exertion as on the other machines. Basically, a workout felt easier.
Since that time, there have been other studies that corroborated those findings and others that have disputed them. Should you care? Not really. What matters is finding the exercises that you enjoy. Many exercisers who love ellipticals say that the motion of an elliptical with the arm poles is very rhythmic and therefore creates a more enjoyable workout. Others feel that the treadmill, exercise bike or other machine allows them to obtain the same feeling, while many prefer to run or bike on the road.
So, while research says elliptical machines can be a very effective full-body workout, that doesn't mean they'll be effective for you. Try various types of aerobic exercise out and find which ones you like, because for exercise to be effective, well....you've got to actually do it!
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