How to choose an elliptical trainer

The elliptical trainer is a means to keep the body in good shape. During training, all muscle groups are included in the work, however, there is no shock load on the joints, as during a run. However, the effect will be only in the case when training is associated with adherence to a diet, and the simulator itself is chosen correctly, taking into account the nuances and technical features of this class of devices.

Best elliptical trainer manufacturers

The choice in favor of the products of a renowned manufacturer is the best guarantee of performance and compliance with the technical characteristics declared, and therefore, considering this or that elliptical trainer for purchase, preference should be given to models of the following brands:

1. Proxima;

2. Body Sculptor;

3. Spirit;

4. Intensor;

5. SunnyFit;

For the right choice, you need to study the parameters of the most suitable devices, as well as familiarize yourself with user reviews of a particular model. You can find them on specialized forums, as well as in groups on social networks.

Types of elliptical trainers

Exercising on an ellipsoid is similar to skiing. Standing on special footrests and clasping the handrails, the athlete performs alternate movements with his arms and legs, including not only the leg muscles, but also the shoulder girdle, biceps, triceps and even abdominal muscles. Essentially, a properly sized ellipsoid replaces the stepper, exercise bike, and treadmill.

According to their functional features, elliptical trainers are divided into the following groups.

Mechanical trainers

The most simple and inexpensive devices. The flywheel is here connected to the pulley by means of a rigid belt. As a rule, the number of operating modes for such devices is significantly limited, and additional options are minimized.

Advantages

• Inexpensive;

• The load is adjusted mechanically;

• Allows you to work out all muscle groups;

• Compact enough;

disadvantages

• There is no smooth adjustment of the stroke during the exercise;

• High noise level;

Magnetic Trainers

More advanced devices based on the interaction of a magnet and a flywheel made of ferromagnetic metal. The load is adjusted by moving the magnet closer or further to the flywheel, so that the intensity of the exercise can be adjusted smoothly, right during the exercise. The maximum weight of an athlete using such a simulator can reach 120-130 kilograms. In addition, most of the devices are equipped with a microcomputer that allows you to adjust up to 15-20 degrees of load and make your own adjustment programs.

Advantages

• Compact devices;

• Creation of your own training programs;

• Up to 20 different load levels;

• An athlete's weight can be up to 130 kilograms;

• Sensitive adjustment of the degree of load directly during the exercise;

disadvantages

• Noisy work;

• Quite high cost;

Electromagnetic trainers

The most functional, advanced and, accordingly, expensive devices. Magnets are also used here as an adjusting mechanism, but they are controlled by a microcontroller acting on them and allowing you to change the intensity of the load in real time, without distracting the athlete from the training process. Most of these models are professional and can support the weight of an athlete up to 180 kilograms.

Advantages

• High functionality;

• The presence of all kinds of sensors that allow you to monitor the state of the body;

• Dynamic regulation of load levels;

• Microcomputer, which allows you to adjust the intensity of the load directly during the exercise;

• Withstand weight up to 180 kilograms;

disadvantages

• High price;

• Large dimensions and weight;

Aeromagnetic simulators

In many ways, these devices are similar to electromagnetic ones, but in some respects they are even more functional. First of all, this concerns the mechanism of work – they function both from the network and from the built-in generator, powered by the energy received during the exercise. Heated magnets are cooled with special fans, which is where the name of this device actually came from. A great variety of modes for changing the load, the presence of various training programs with the ability to change them in manual mode, all kinds of sensors – these and many other functions are present here by default.

Advantages

• High functionality;

• The presence of all kinds of sensors that allow you to monitor the state of the body;

• Dynamic regulation of load levels;

• Microcomputer, which allows you to adjust the intensity of the load directly during the exercise;

• Ability to operate both from the network and from the built-in generator;

• Withstand weight up to 160-180 kilograms;

disadvantages

• Extremely high cost – $ 1500-2000 models are common;

The main criteria for choosing an elliptical trainer

Overall dimensions and weight of the device

An extremely important parameter, especially for those who plan to install the simulator in a small apartment. The more functional the simulator is, the larger its dimensions and weight are. It is for this reason that most people choose compact mechanical models for use in an ordinary city apartment.

Maximum working weight

A parameter that determines the weight of an athlete who can perform exercises on the simulator. When choosing, you should focus on the “heaviest” member of your family, and add 20-25 kilograms to the figure declared by the manufacturer for greater confidence. Otherwise, failure of the executive units of the simulator or the frame is very likely.

Flywheel location

Exercise machines with a flywheel located in the front part provide a straight torso position during exercise, due to which exercise on this device provides maximum calorie burning and, as a result, leads to a fairly rapid weight loss;

Rear-handwheel devices, by contrast, are best suited for pumping all muscle groups due to the natural position of the torso on the machine;

Sportsman stride length

It largely depends on the growth of the athlete, and the degree of his preparation also plays an important role.

1. Compact models with a step length of 35-40 centimeters are suitable for a beginner or a person of short stature;

2. Models with an average stride length of about 45-50 centimeters are an excellent option for people of average height, as well as for ordinary ordinary users;

3. Models with a stride length over 50 centimeters are an excellent option for trained athletes or tall people whose height exceeds 185 centimeters;

Availability of flexible adjustment of training levels

An important parameter for those who want to get the maximum effect. The best simulators allow you to configure up to 20 intensity modes, and their change is carried out online, right during training. Electromagnetic simulators are considered advanced in this regard, which independently regulate the load depending on the task at hand – losing weight, gaining muscle mass, strengthening the cardiovascular system or other other tasks.

Having special programs designed for certain training conditions is also important for a successful training. Popular models of simulators, in addition to preset algorithms, also make it possible to customize your own training modes, based on the degree of your own physical development and the desired result.

Presence of a microcomputer and special sensors

The computer greatly expands the functionality of the device. Thanks to him, the athlete receives comprehensive information regarding the training time, distance traveled, calories burned and the intensity of the loads created by the flywheel. In addition, with the presence of special sensors, it becomes possible to track the pulse and even blood pressure, which allows you to closely monitor your own well-being and adjust the load depending on it.

In the following articles, our experts will tell you how to choose a treadmill, the secrets of choosing a treadmill, and recommendations for choosing dumbbells for home workouts.

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.