Getting Started
Many types of ellipticals are available on the market. Three basic types of ellipticals exist: the "rear" drive, "front" drive and "center" drive (newest style). These names are based on the location of the motor. Some models are equipped with adjustable ramps to vary difficulty and length of strides. The majority of ellipticals have handles that help move the pedals and the best types of ellipticals utilize equal arm and leg power to provide the best workout. The highest quality ellipticals are found at fitness clubs but usually start around $4000, whereas home models start around $200. The more expensive models have better or more features, are sturdier and come with warranties.
Types of Ellipticals
Within the basic types of ellipticals as mentioned above, other types also exist:
- Independent action machines. these help you to work more efficiently by allowing the legs to move in a forward sloping motion.
- Dependent action machines. the pedals of these types of ellipticals move in unison, creating a much lower impact workout on the joints.
- Dual action models. have movable bars for the hands that work together with the pedals to provide an upper body workout as well.
Common Elliptical Features
A range of different features are now available on ellipticals to make the workout experience more enjoyable and more personalized.
- Electric monitors can record heart rate, distance, time, and calories burned. Most ellipticals are equipped with a monitor that does at least one of these things.
- Reverse motion is very helpful in order to work out different muscle groups. Typically, only the most basic models lack this feature.
- Stationary-Moveable handle combination. although moveable handles provide a more total body workout, it's good to have stationary handles as well that have heart-rate detectors, and are easier to adjust to for many people.
- Adjustable stride length. many ellipticals now have adjustable strides, which can greatly improve the calories burned, or make the workout much more comfortable.
Other Features
- Fans. great for more intense workouts. This feature is more common in the higher priced models.
- MP3 plug-in. definitely makes the workout more enjoyable and can be found in many mid to higher priced models.
- Drink holders. available in most models.
- Built-in TVs. not common at all and only found in very high priced models.
Models of Elliptical
- Fitness Quest: $1000 or less
- Horizon Fitness: $2500 or less
- Icon Health and Fitness: sold under the names Nordic Track, Proform, and Reebok, most sell for $1000 or less.
- Keys Fitness: $3000 or less
- Life Fitness: $1800 to $4200
- Nautilus: $2300 to $3300
- Octane Fitness: $2000 to $4200
- Precor: $2500 to $5000
- Schwinn: $1300 or less
- Spirit: $2500 or less
- Vision Fitness: $1000 to $2500
Elliptical Shopping Tips
- Size. if space is an issue, then a smaller model should be considered. Many models now have the ability to fold up as well, another feature to look into.
- Safety. if small children will be around the machine then it's good to consider looking into an elliptical with parts that children can't get their fingers pinched in.
- Comfort. test the elliptical to make sure comfort needs are being met. If it feels awkward or uncomfortable, it may not be the right model.
- Assembly. if the skills or time for assembly are an issue then it's important to find an elliptical with little to no assembly required.
- Adjustability. if several people will be using the elliptical, then adjustable strides would be beneficial to have.
- Warranty. at least 2 or 3 years (some even have lifetime warranties) is good to have, so that costly parts and repairs won't be an issue.
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