A treadmill and the elliptical exercise machine are two of the most popular types of exercise equipment. Both are excellent for accomplishing an extensive aerobic workout indoors. The treadmill has been around for a longer period of time than has the elliptical exercise machine, and is more widely known and more common to consumers of exercise equipment. This machine, however, deserves to be considered by the advanced exercise enthusiast.
The elliptical exercise machine is amazingly impact-free, so the joints in the leg are kept safe from being over abused. Although a treadmill mat is better for your knees than is asphalt, there is still a significant amount of impact on your joints. Stress on the joints can cause problems later on.
A quality cardiovascular workout with the maximum amount of efficiency is the powerhouse of the elliptical exercise machine. An elliptical exercise machine offers a total body work out by using the dual action handlebars for arms and upper body, while the foot pedals exercise legs and the lower body. A treadmill, on the other hand, only offers a lower body work out. Experts have found that an entire body workout is obviously much better for cardiac health than just a partial body exercise program.
According to recent studies, the lack of impact on the joints allows the exercise enthusiast to burn just about the same amount of calories as treadmills with considerably less effort and stress. An elliptical exercise machine should be the choice for senior citizen exercisers who suffer from knee problems, as well as physical therapists who are helping to offer rehabilitation to patients.
One important factor about the elliptical exercise machine that is often overlooked is that the it adds more variety to an aerobic work out. The elliptical exercise machine can keep exercise enthusiasts motivated and interested. The biggest challenge for most people is to actually stay on an exercise program; this machine offers variety to maintain interest and the drive to stay with the exercise plan. The elliptical exercise machine has the ability to change the incline, like a treadmill, but has additional and optional features to consider as well. Dual action handlebars can be included for a full aerobic workout, or turned off to concentrate mainly on just the lower body. A cross ramp incline is included with some of the elliptical exercise machine models, as well as heart rate monitors and cool down fans to make the workout a more comfortable experience.
The elliptical exercise machine may or may not replace the treadmill as the number one choice in exercise equipment by physical workout enthusiasts, but more and more, the elliptical exercise machine may give the treadmill manufacturers a fair run for the money. The elliptical exercise machine has appeared in many health clubs and rehabilitation centers across America and there is no sign present of it fading away anytime soon.
Ellipticals can help improve your overall health and are adjustable for individual needs. There are many makes and models to chose from, so finding an elliptical exercise machine that works for you should be easy.
By R. S. Wagner