Ellipticals
Step on an elliptical trainer and see why the fitness world is buzzing about oblong exercise. Elliptical machines combine the best of treadmills, bikes, steppers and skiers to create a totally new form of low-impact exercise.
Look for the following in a good elliptical machine:
Resistance
Every elliptical machine has some form of
adjustable resistance. The best offer electronic versus manual
resistance. There's nothing worse than stopping your workout to adjust
knobs and levers. With electronic resistance you simply press a button
and keep going.
Incline
Various incline options come with any good
elliptical trainer. Again, look for electronic incline controls so
won't have to stop to make mid-workout adjustments.
Workout Feedback
To get an efficient workout, it's
important to track your progress. Speed, distance, time-they're all
important. Make sure your elliptical has these three at the minimum.
Other displays can include pulse, resistance and even calories burned.
Upper Body
Many elliptical machines come with some
form of upper-body mechanism. In order to get a total body workout,
upper body exercise is essential.
Pulse Monitors
Many ellipticals come equipped with
heart rate monitors of one kind or another. Heart rate sensors produce
maximum workout efficiency by keeping you at your optimum heart rate.
Of all the models, chest straps are most accurate, followed by the
thumb and ear clip sensors.
Warranty
It's only common sense. A good elliptical
should come with a good warranty to back it up. Usually, the longer the
warranty, the higher quality the elliptical. That's why most dealers
and manufacturers agree one year on parts and labor is safe.
