What Do Elliptical Machines Do?

Some people embrace drastic measures such as gastric bypass surgery to slim down, but there are many exercises and pieces of exercise equipment that also can help an individual lose weight. One piece of equipment that can be used by people regardless of their weight is the elliptical machine.

Design

Elliptical machines are designed to recreate the effects of walking and running. However, they are significantly different from other exercise machines, such as treadmills, because they reduce the amount of pressure that is exerted on the joints.

Benefit

Elliptical machines do not typically build muscle, so they aren't a good option for those who want to bulk up. Instead, they are designed to provide cardiovascular workouts. The amount of stress put on the cardiovascular system can be adjusted by the user, who can change the setting on the elliptical machine that controls the amount of resistance the user experiences.

Results

Both the upper and lower body can be worked by elliptical machines. Some elliptical machines have arm handles, but even those that do are controlled primarily by the work of the legs. It's the muscles in the legs, then, that are the ones most likely to get more toned.

Balance and Motor Fitness

If an elliptical machine does not have arm handles or if the user opts not to use the handles that are present, an elliptical machine can improve both motor fitness and balance. The circular motion of the machine requires that the user's center of gravity constantly shift as the machine is used.

Effectiveness

Elliptical machines often are compared to treadmills in terms of effectiveness. According to Thomas Altena, an exercise physiologist from the University of Missouri-Columbia, the physiological responses of treadmills and elliptical machines are virtually identical. However, elliptical machines do not produce the impact on the joints that treadmills do, so more calories can be used up with less effort.

Users

Elliptical machines do not produce a lot of impact on the joints, making them good machines for use by the elderly, who often need smooth, low-impact exercises. Trainers and athletes who are being rehabilitated also find the low-impact design of elliptical machines beneficial.