Elliptical Buying Guide
33701
Health & Fitness > Fitness Equipment
Jun 27, 2007
koneill22
Elliptical Buying Guide
Elliptical trainers are ideal if you're looking for a total body workout that burns maximum amount of calories in the least amount of time. They also provide a very low impact workout which makes them great for any exerciser including those with knee problems or older athletes who don't want the impact on their joints If you're buying an elliptical machine here are the key factors to consider before buying in order to get the most value for your money: 1) Price Ellipticals range in price from $300 to $3000. It's up to you what you pay. Just keep in mind that price reflects quality - you generally get what you pay for. That $300 department store elliptical may seem like a bargain until the 3rd week when it develops a high pitched squeaking sound that drowns out the TV (don't laugh, it happened to me.) Economy priced elliptical trainers are simply not as well built as higher quality $900+ units. Cheap ellipticals can end up costing you in repairs, injury and an overall less effective workout with less calories burned. If you're planning on using your elliptical regularly, spend a bit more and invest in one that will last you. 2) Forward and Reverse motions The ability to move in a forward or reverse motion adds variety and challenge to your workout. This also reduces your risk of repetitive use injuries common with some treadmill and stair climber users. Most ellipticals have this option but it's always a good idea to make sure it's offered on the unit you want. 3) Adjustable Resistance Quality eliptical trainers will have a range of resistance levels. Look for a unit that makes resistance changes simple (i.e. one-touch resistance adjustment) so that interval training sessions can be easily incorporated into your workout 4) Upper Body Arm Bars While you really don't need these for an effective workout, many people prefer them. They do help to provide resistance training and toning for your upper body. However make sure you don't have to lean over while using them which can diminish the effectiveness of your workout (this can happen on many of the cheaper models). 5) Weight Capacity The user weight capacity indicates the quality of the elliptical. High quality machines will have higher user weight capacities. A higher user weight capacity (i.e. 300+ pounds) generally means a much more stable elliptical. This is essential if you want to pick up your pace during your workout. 6) Warranty While warranties range for different elliptical trainers, choose a machine with at least a one year parts warranty - preferably longer. The length of the warranty is another indicator of the quality of parts used to build the machine. A longer warranty tends to indicate a better-built machine. (However I'm not talking here about the 'extended coverage' warranty you have to buy with some cheaper brands. If you have to pay for extended coverage that may not be a good sign.) 7) Display panel While there are a range of different options here, it really depends on you. Do you want to see calories burned, speed, time, distance, incline? Do you want to see them all simultaneously? One good rule of thumb here is to make sure the console is well lit so you can read it while you exercise. Finally remember to consider everyone who will be using the elliptical, their weight capacity, workout preferences and fitness goals. By knowing these facts, you're way ahead of most buyers and well prepared to choose the best elliptical trainer for you.
Kathryn O'Neill is chief editor for Elliptical Trainer Reviews, a consumer oriented website focusing on the home elliptical trainer market. For the latest elliptical Best Buys visit Best Elliptical Trainers
send email to koneill22
Write a Review
Add to My Favorite
Refer it to Friend
Report Article
Other links owned by this user
Looking for a commercial grade treadmill? Here's a quick reviw of what you need to know about commercial grade treadmills including how they different from home treadmills and commercial treadmills.
Category:
Buying an exercise bike? This buying guide shows you exactly what to look when shopping so you can choose the best exercise bike for you and avoid buying a lemon!
Category:
Most people buying a treadmill will be probably be faced with the choice: "Do I want a folding treadmill or a non-folding treadmill?" Learn the real difference between folding versus non folding treadmills - you might be surprised!
Category:
Buying elliptical exercise equipment can get confusing with more and more elliptical brands coming on the market every year. Here are 3 key features to look for when buying your elliptical to keep things simple and avoid buying a lemon.
Category:
Buying an exercise bike and want to know how one can benefit you? Learn about the benefits of exercising on a recumbent bike and how to reach your fitness goals fast.
Category:
Looking for a home gym? Not every home gym is right for every person. Here are 8 key features to look for in order to find the best home gym for you.
Category:
With all of the different elliptical brands out there, how do you choose the best one? Here are 5 key features to look for when shopping to help you find the very best elliptical trainer.
Category:
Buying an elliptical? You'll want to make several elliptical trainer comparisons. Here's what to know before buying in order to make an accurate comparison and find the best elliptical trainer for your workout needs.
Category:
Buying a treadmill? Here are 3 buying tips that most people don't know. They'll save you money and keep you from buying a lemon.
Category:
Before deciding what kind of weight loss plan is best for you, ask yourself this one crucial question and ensure your weight loss success!
Category:
Getting confused about researching treadmills? Here are the top 3 things to keep in mind when reading treadmill reviews so you can find the right treadmill for your needs.
Category:
Looking for the best rated treadmill? Here are 3 easy ways to find the best rated treadmills - for your personal workout needs.
Category:
Buying an elliptical trainer? This easy elliptical buying guide will help you know which features to look for to ensure you find the very best elliptical trainer for your needs!
Category:
Green tea is being touted as the latest weight loss miracle - but does it really work or is it all just hype? This article gives you the real facts about drinking green tea to lose weight.
Category:
Buying an Elliptical Trainer? Learn the 3 main price categories of elliptical trainers and what you can expect in each.This will help you know exactly what you need (and it may just save you some money!)
Category:
Considering a Weider home gym? Here are the pros and cons of a Weider home gym to help you decide if it's the right buy for you.
Category:
If only there were a 'better body boot camp', we'd be there every April - before spring started to show itself and those lovely winter jackets had to come off. Although this isn't a better body boot camp, this article can offer you 5 practical steps to a
Category:
Buying an elliptical? Here are 3 things you need to know when reading elliptical trainer ratings to help you fine the best ellipical for you.
Category:
Trying to decide between an elliptical trainer and another piece of exercise equipment? Learn 3 distinct advantages that an elliptical workout provides you.
Category:
Buying a treadmill? You'll probably be making several treadmill comparisons to find the right treadmill for your needs. Here are 3 ways to make effective treadmill comparisons so you can avoid buying a 'lemon' and wasting your money.
Category:
Other links at Health & Fitness > Fitness Equipment
The newest models of treadmills come with many extra features that you may or may not need.
Category:
A popular option making waves in the home exercise scene is the elliptical trainer, which provides a wide range of possibilities for losing weight and toning muscle.
Category:
The Swiss ball which is commonly known as the exercise ball is made up of an elastic rubber with a diameter ranging from 22 to 34 inches. This is used for purposes of exercise and physical therapy rehabilitation purposes.
Category:
Buying a treadmill online has become the way to go for most people; it'll save you both time and a lot of money.
Category:
Looking for a home gym? Not every home gym is right for every person. Here are 8 key features to look for in order to find the best home gym for you.
Category:
Site Sponsor
Directory Statistics
Articles: 68252
Categories: 501
Yahoo Entertainment
