What is an elliptical?
Wikipedia definition states An elliptical trainer or cross-trainer (also called an X-trainer is a stationary exercise machine used to simulate stair climbing, walking or running without causing excessive pressure to the joints, hence decreasing the risk of impact injuries.
Based on the speed and the resistance set by the user the elliptical exercise machine offers a non-impact workout that is very good for cardiovascular workout
It is therefore very beneficial for people with certain kind of injuries and wants to stay fit to use an elliptical machine as the low impact will affect the very little if any at all.
Elliptical exercise machine usually have components that work the upper and lower body although some do not have this feature
Because the elliptical exercise machine is minimal-impact they are an excellent example of weight-bearing exercise(any activity you do that works your muscles and bones against gravity.)
They can be self-powered by user-generated motion or need to be plugged in for adjustment of motion and/or for supplying their electronic consoles and resistance systems.
The elliptical exercise machine gives a total body workout and targets more muscles than running, walking or any exercise that focuses on the legs.
The exercise for the upper body is done by use of the handle-levers this engages the muscles in the arms and shoulders, and the pedals require the legs muscles to work. If standing correctly, your core muscle will also be engaged.
Muscles Worked.
The main muscles worked on the elliptical are your quads, glutes, and hamstrings. Your calves also work but to a lesser degree. To work your calves muscles adjust the incline ramp (if your machine has one) to a steep angle.
Because the elliptical is very easy on the joints and provides total body workout along with great cardio it is one of the popular equipment in most gyms.
Exercising on the elliptical machine can be very boring and repetitive try high training intervals during your 15 -30min training and it is suggested to aim for at least training for 150 minutes per week.
Elliptical Benefits
The benefits of using the elliptical machine for your workouts are many, we will look at a few
It is non-impact you can emulate the motion of running without any strenuous on your joints that would occur otherwise.
The ability to exercise upper and lower body simultaneously as most elliptical trainers are now equipped with movable handles
When working out on the elliptical machine the same amount of calories are burned with less effort. Studies show that you are actually working harder than you think based on the heart rate.
You can also stride in reverse and this action activate different muscle group and put more emphasis on the quads and offer an adjustable variety mid-workout
There are a couple cons with the elliptical especially the weight bearing aspect because the pedals are suspended for less impact on the joints the weight bearing effect is not as good as the treadmill.
The elliptical can be used as an effective cardiovascular machine for those who want to help improve cardiovascular health with minimal impact.
For losing weight using the elliptical machine a should be implemented. Treadmills come with more stress on the joints so the elliptical is an adequate alternative. If you have an injury that is made worse by weight-bearing exercise like running then the elliptical may be the right option for you.
For losing weight using the elliptical machine should be implemented. Treadmills come with more stress on the joints so the elliptical is an adequate alternative. If you have an injury that is made worse by weight-bearing exercise like running then the elliptical may be the right option for you.
We are looking at the Bowflex bxe116 elliptical machine Bowflex is a very reputable company they have been manufacturing in home exercise machines since 1986 and have gained high reviews
The Bowflex bxe 116 is a great machine it has Bluetooth Connectivity there is an app available that enable you to track your fitness level.
There are 3 different levels of tilt adjustment there is also a switch select which allows you to work harder and achieve the desired results.
In-reach multi-grip handlebar buttons ensure you’re always in control while pedal incline adjustments couldn’t be easier.
Specs and product information copied from the manufacturer’s website
9 Pre-Programmed Workouts
- 25 Resistance Levels
- 22″ Stride Length
- 30 lb Effective Flywheel System
- Syncs with Free Results Series™ App
- Available for Apple iOS and Android devices 1
- Switch Select™ Cushioning System
- Adjust pedal angle for comfort or for additional muscle activation
- Bluetooth® 4.0 Compatible
BXE116 ELLIPTICAL PRODUCT SPECS
- Dimensions
- 77″ L x 31″ W x 70″ H (195.6 x 78.7 x 177.8 cm)
- Resistance Levels
- 25
- Stride Length
- 22″
- Effective Flywheel System
- 30lb
- Minimum Ceiling Height
- User Height +29″ (74 cm)
- Assembled Machine Weight
- 263 lbs. (119.3 kg)
- Maximum Capacity
- 375 lbs. (170 kg)
This machine has a 41/2 stars rating the pros are very favorable.
I have listed 4 pro comments from purchasers of this machine
PRO
Super strong & stable unit. Very smooth. Great pre-programmed sessions and good at setting and measuring progress goals. Technology is good with the Bowflex app –
Great machine. It gives you a great work out
Awesome workout. Very quiet operation. Well made machine.
Great product, very sturdy
Cons
General setting with a shorter stride and less resistance is needed for disabled and older people who want to exercise
very disappointed in the smoothness of operation.
The overall views of this machine are excellent and would worth the money spent on purchasing the Bowflex bxe116
This machine is available at Amazon.com
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