6 advantages of the elliptical trainer (cross-trainer)

Article provided by the online store fotos.ua.
2014-04-29

1. Less strain on the joints compared to running.

The elliptical trainer (also known as the elliptical machine) was invented to mimic the movements of running while placing less stress on the joints. As is known, running can negatively affect the knee joints. The inventor of the elliptical came to this idea by chance—he was recording a video of his daughter running alongside a car.

Later research confirmed that exercises on the elliptical are almost identical to running on a treadmill in almost every regard, while being significantly less harmful to the joints. The parameters for oxygen uptake, lactic acid production, heart rate, and physical efforts are nearly the same.

2. Strengthening weak muscles

In another study, the work of the quadriceps (the four-headed thigh muscles) and hamstrings was compared while walking on land, walking on a treadmill, cycling, and using an elliptical. It turned out that the elliptical provided greater load on the quadriceps and improved coordination between the quadriceps and hamstrings. The quadriceps are particularly engaged during the reverse pedal push.

Since most people have weaker quadriceps than hamstrings, training on the elliptical has considerable advantages. This is particularly important for runners and cyclists who need to maintain balance between different muscle groups.

3. Development of the glute muscles

The elliptical is much more beneficial than simple walking for developing the gluteus maximus and the lateral wide muscle of the thigh. These muscles are often underdeveloped even in many people who are involved in sports or fitness, not to mention the average population. The elliptical is the most optimal machine for developing these muscles.

4. Optimization of workout quality

When exercising on the elliptical, the wider the stride, the more calories are burned without the feeling of increased strain. As a result, you can train more effectively with subjectively comparable loads. This is a significant advantage of the elliptical with the feature to adjust stride length.

5. Engaging upper body and core muscles

On USA STYLE ellipticals and other models, not only the legs but also the arms, shoulders, chest muscles, biceps, and triceps receive a workout. This is a unique combination of strength and cardio training. Furthermore, due to the vertical position of the machine, the so-called core muscles are activated: the abs, oblique abdominal muscles, transverse abdominal muscles, the muscles around the spine, groin muscles, hamstrings, etc.

6. Compactness

The elliptical takes up less space than a treadmill and is easier to move. There are even portable ellipticals, similar to bicycles, which can be ridden and stored in the trunk of a car when necessary. If you have limited space at home, a compact home or portable elliptical can be the perfect solution to your space problem.

This article is provided by the online store fotos.ua.