Elliptical Machines: What Makes them Different

Elliptical machines are the most popular apparatus in most gyms. Although some people may attribute this to a "fad" or "novelty" factor, the truth is that elliptical machines are popular because they're different from most other exercise machines in three key ways:

Elliptical machines work the entire body. The newer models of elliptical machines work out the muscles in the lower and upper body at the same time, leaving the user with an unparalleled full-body workout. Not only does this help the body build more healthy muscle mass, but it also increases coordination through simultaneous movement, as well as better balance. Since the arms and legs share the workout, elliptical machines also help heal muscle imbalances that are often found in middle age to older individuals.

They build true cardiovascular endurance. Most exercise machines work primarily the lower body. This can result in uneven training and a "false" sense of cardiovascular endurance, because the upper body is relatively weak and under-trained, when compared to the legs. Elliptical machines solve this problem by distributing the resistance between the upper and lower body, which results in a truly optimal cardiovascular workout-and true muscular endurance throughout the entire body.

They're easy on the joints. Elliptical machines offer a unique full body oval motion that is parallel to the natural full range motion of the hip and knee joints. This unique natural movement eliminates the total impact that is caused by activities such as walking or running, while building up the joints and providing the strength and endurance building that users are seeking when using elliptical machines.

They're easy on the mind as well. The steady, smooth, and even motion of elliptical machines offers users the ability to enjoy watching TV, reading books, and enjoying music, without feeling the stressful effects of pain or feeling winded during the workout. Also, it is easy to feel safe and secure while using ellipticals (unlike exercise machines such as treadmills). And finally, they trigger "relaxation response" that is used to achieve peace in activities such as meditation.

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