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The Elliptical Trainer or Elliptical Cross Trainer

Elliptical trainer exercise equipment is also known as elliptical cross trainers. Going from aerobic and anaerobic exercises to these elliptical trainer machines provide a complete upper and lower body workout for greater stamina and endurance.

The same as exercise bikes elliptical trainers combine the fluidity of running with the low impact motion of bicycling. This reduces the strain on the joints yet provides an upper and lower body workout. Elliptical machines usually have a pair of foot pedals. Feet must be secured to the pedals.

The stride length should feel natural. Too long a stride will make for an uncomfortable workout. People tend to reduce the number of workouts. Too short a stride length creates a jerking motion. It helps to adjust resistance levels up and down.

Unlike an exercise bike or treadmill, most elliptical trainers allow for both arm and foot movements. Handlebars that move are connected to the foot pedals. There is also a stationary handlebar for people who want to keep the arms motionless. Arms with weights attached can also be moved naturally without the use of any handlebars. This forces the stabilizing muscles of the core to work harder and burn calories.

An elliptical cross trainer usually comes with a digital console. It can indicate calories burned, steps per minute, heart rate, and distance traveled.

The elliptical trainer machines with a built in pulse taking mechanism aren't usually very accurate. Use them as a measure of progress. Progress leads to motivation.

The number of calories burned is set for an average individual. A person weighing 150 pounds with 20% body fat will burn less calories than someone who weighs 130 pounds and leads a sedentary lifestyle. Once again these digital readouts can be used as a personal guide.

A monitor may have a switch to turn it on. Or pushing the pedals may start the console. Always face the console. Use one of the preprogrammed programs or custom build your own. One advantage of using the preprogrammed courses is the variety of training readily available. Avoid leaning toward the handlebars or leaning the weight backward. Shoulders should be square and stomach tucked in.

Begin to increase or decrease the resistance levels. Change stride length until you fit a workout into a defined time interval. Wear cross trainer shoes. They are light and have good tread grip. Take advantage of free advice from volunteer trainers at a gym. You never know when you may be causing injury to yourself. Good advice from a trainer can be invaluable.

Because of the good results with decreased negative effects elliptical cross trainers are gaining ground on treadmills and step trainers. When buying an elliptical cross trainer for yourself look for a machine with upper body levers. It should have forward and reverse motion.

Resistance, stride length, and pedals need to be adjustable. Don't spend extra money for accessories that give you little benefits. Stick with the basics of what the machine is intended to do. Seek a well known manufacturer and compare warranties.

The previous article is on Cardiovascular Training.

Always consult with your doctor or a certified professional trainer before undertaking any exercises, treatments, or dietary supplements.

Other wiki resources: cardiovascular training; endurance training; strength training; aerobic exercise; stationary bike