Best Elliptical Exercise Machine – How to Buy The Best Elliptical Trainer for You

There is no denying it – in order to enjoy the body and health you desire – exercising is a must. While some people run circles around an outdoor track, attend an aerobics class, or lift weights; an increasing amount of individuals looking for a fun and invigorating workout are turning to the power of an elliptical trainer. With the movements of a stair climber, exercise bike, and treadmill wrapped into one neat package, an elliptical trainer combines the benefits of cross country skiing, biking, and hiking all at once. In order to take advantage of one of the most effective cardio machines on the market – a little knowledge goes a long way.

What information do you need to begin a search for the best elliptical trainer for you? Before you get started, it is important to set a budget for this type of purchase. It is not uncommon to encounter elliptical machines costing beyond $2,000. Not many people are ready to commit to this kind of price bracket. However, a quality home elliptical trainer is not going to cost $100 (unless you buy used). The industry doesn’t even produce this kind of exercise equipment with a base price that low.

An important thought to keep in mind when browsing elliptical trainers for the home is that you basically get what you pay for. The less expensive elliptical trainers aren’t as sturdy or smooth in operation as a model that costs more than $500 on the market.

However, don’t fret – you can still bring home a relatively inexpensive model. The Smooth Fitness ME model offers ultra-quiet operation, adjustable peddles, flexible electric variable resistance, and a limited warranty on parts and labor for around $800. Other inexpensive winners include the Eclipse 4100 HR/A ($549.99) with a solid steel frame and flawless features, and the durable Fitness Quest Eclipse 1100 HR/A Elliptical Trainer for $349.

Key Features

In order to get the most out of an elliptical equipment purchase, becoming familiar with key components regarding this type of exercise equipment is a must. The five main concepts to look out for include: forward and reverse motions, adjustable resistance, quiet operation, upper body workout arms, and an elliptical incline.

Forward and reverse motions allow a user to infuse their workouts with variety and higher levels of challenge. Plus – different groups of muscles receive attention, which create an increase in the total number of burned calories. This feature also makes sure you face a lower risk of repetitive-use injuries.

The ability to adjust your levels of resistance in an elliptical machine will increase the amount of calories burned within a single workout. This challenging feature also creates an easy transition into interval training.

When working out, you don’t want the whole world to know – especially if you live in an apartment or have a baby in the household. An elliptical machine designed to operate in a quiet manner makes tackling higher intensity levels all the better. Keep in mind that an inexpensive elliptical machine may squeak after a couple months of heavy use.

To elevate the level of your resistance training, choosing an elliptical trainer that provides an upper arm workout will help you burn more calories while doing your elliptical trainer exercise.

An elliptical incline is common in models (such as Proform and Nordic Track), but do not confuse this feature with resistance. When changing the incline of your machine, you switch the overall motion – causing different sets of muscles to burn fat and develop a more toned appearance.