What is an Elliptical Trainer?
Elliptical trainers are used by many people to lose weight and increase muscle tone. Instead of your feet coming off the ground as in the case of a treadmill, you stay stationary and move in an oval-like motion. This removes most of the impact on your joints.
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Significance
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Many people have range of motion issues or cannot sustain stress on their joints. Elliptical trainers offer these people a way to work out safely.
Function
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Elliptical trainers have foot pedals to stand on and upright handles to grab ahold of. Your arms and legs back and forth in a gliding motion. This works your upper and lower body at the same time.
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Higher Grade
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The high grade models have digital screens that give you your time, speed, distance, caloric expenditure and a workout program feature. Some of these even have MP3 or iPod jacks.
Home Version
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There are also foldable, lightweight elliptical trainers that can be used in the home and stored in a closet. A popular variety is the Tony Little Gazelle. This type is completely operated by body weight.
Target
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Put more emphasis on the legs by taking your hands off the upright handles and placing them on the center crossbar. This will specifically target the gluteal and hamstring muscles.
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