Low-Impact Cardio Training: All About Elliptical Machines

Elliptical machines help you get a challenging cardio workout, without placing unneeded stress on muscles and joints.

A staple in both home and commercial gyms, elliptical trainers guide your body through a fluid circular motion, somewhere between running and pedaling on a bike. Many also offer upper body training-so you can make the most of your workout. Choose an elliptical trainer for cardio equipment that delivers a fluid, low-impact workout.

Consider whether you're interested in the long-stride length of a front-drive elliptical, the smooth walking motion of a rear-drive elliptical or the reduction and joint stress achieved through a center-drive elliptical. Find ellipticals built with large or compact frames that can accommodate space restriction in your home.

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Your stride on an elliptical trainer should feel natural as you move. Ellipticals can vary in their operation, but every model should deliver smooth, continuous foot motion for an optimal low-impact workout.

Look for home fitness equipment that lets you customize your workout. Modify your resistance and incline for a challenging upper and lower body workout. Keep in mind details like padded handlebars and oversized foot pedals for easy of movement and comfort in your workout.

Make the most of your elliptical with features like built-in cooling fans, bottle holders and vibrant LCD screen read-outs. Track your distance, heart rate and other factors in real-time as you train. Innovative features such as a Wifi-enabled console and smartphone docking are also available on some trainers.

And because space is always a consideration, remember that ellipticals with smaller consoles tend to take up less space. The more features a machine has, the more space it will likely require in your home.

Consider the different types of movement elliptical trainers provide.

• Rear-drive ellipticals are perfect for home or club use. These machines are reliable and deliver smooth action similar to walking. With fewer moving parts, they tend to have minimal mechanical problems.
• Front-drive ellipticals offer a workout that feels similar to training on a stair climber. These trainers often have articulated foot pedals that keep your feet aligned with the motion of the apparatus and provide forward-leaning positioning and longer stride length.
• Center-drive ellipticals have a drive axel that is placed in front of the user. These machines require less space in your home gym.