How to choose an elliptical trainer

Elliptical trainer is a means to keep the body in good shape. During training, all muscle groups are included in the work, but there is no impact load on the joints, as during a run. However, the effect will be only in the case when workouts are coupled with a diet, and the simulator itself is selected correctly, taking into account the nuances and technical features of this class of devices.

Content

1. The best manufacturers of elliptical trainers
2. Types of elliptical trainers
3. The main criteria for choosing an elliptical trainer

The best manufacturers of elliptical trainers

The choice in favor of the products of the eminent manufacturer is the best guarantee of performance and compliance with the technical characteristics stated, and therefore, considering the purchase of one or another elliptical trainer, the following models should be preferred.marks:

1. Proxima;

2. Body Sculptor;

3. Spirit;

4. Intensor;

5. SunnyFit;

To make the right choice, it is necessary to study the parameters of the most suitable devices, as well as to get acquainted with the feedback from users of a particular model. You can find them on specialized forums, as well as in groups in social networks.

Types of elliptical trainers

Performing exercises on an ellipsoid is similar to walking on skis. Standing on special supports for the legs and clasping the handrails, the athlete performs alternating movements with his arms and legs, including not only the leg muscles, but also the shoulder girdle, biceps, triceps, and even the abdominal muscles. In fact, a properly selected ellipsoid replaces the stepper, exercise bike, and treadmill.

According to the functional features, elliptical trainers are divided into the following groups.

Mechanical simulators

The most simple and inexpensive devices. The flywheel here is connected to the pulley by means of a hard belt. As a rule, the number of operating modes for such devices is significantly limited, and additional options are minimized.

Virtues

• Inexpensive;

• The adjustment of the degree of load is carried out mechanically;

• Allow to work out all muscle groups;

• Compact enough;

disadvantages

• There is no smooth adjustment of the course during the exercise;

• High noise;

Magnetic simulators

More advanced devices based on the interaction of a magnet and a flywheel from a ferromagnetic metal. Adjusting the load is carried out by approaching or moving the magnet to the flywheel, so that the intensity of the exercise can be adjusted smoothly, right during the exercise. The maximum weight of an athlete working on this simulator can reach 120-130 kilograms. In addition, most devices are equipped with a microcomputer that allows you to adjust up to 15-20 degrees of load and make your own adjustment programs.

Virtues

• Compact devices;

• Creating your own training programs;

• Up to 20 different load levels;

• Weight athlete can reach up to 130 pounds;

• Sensitive adjustment of the degree of load directly in the course of the exercise;

disadvantages

• Noisy work;

• High enough cost;

Electromagnetic simulators

The most functional, advanced and, accordingly, expensive devices. Magnets are also used as an adjusting mechanism here, but they are controlled by a microcontroller acting on them and allowing them to change the intensity of the load in real time, without distracting the athlete from the exercise process. Most of these models are professional and can withstand the weight of an athlete up to 180 kilograms.

Virtues

• High functionality;

• The presence of various sensors to monitor the state of the body;

• Dynamic regulation of the load;

• A microcomputer that allows you to adjust the intensity of the load during the exercise;

• Maintain a weight of up to 180 kilograms;

disadvantages

• High price;

• Large dimensions and weight;

Aeromagnetic simulators

In many ways, these devices are similar to electromagnetic, but in some ways they are even more functional. First of all, it concerns the mechanism of work - they function both from the network and from the built-in generator, working from the energy received during the exercise. The heated magnets are cooled with the help of special fans, from which, in fact, the name of this device. A great number of modes of changing the load, the presence of various training programs with the possibility of changing them in manual mode, various sensors - these and many other functions are present here by default.

Virtues

• High functionality;

• The presence of various sensors to monitor the state of the body;

• Dynamic regulation of the load;

• A microcomputer that allows you to adjust the intensity of the load during the exercise;

• The ability to work both from the network and from the built-in generator;

• Maintain weight up to 160-180 pounds;

disadvantages

• Extremely high cost - models priced at 1500-2000 dollars are common;

The main criteria for choosing an elliptical trainer

Overall dimensions and weight of the device

An extremely important parameter, especially for those who are planning to install the simulator in a small apartment. The more functional the simulator, the larger the dimensions and weight it characterizes. It is for this reason that most people choose compact mechanical models for use in an ordinary city apartment.

Maximum working weight

The parameter that determines the weight of the athlete who can perform exercises on the simulator. When choosing, you should be guided by the “heaviest” member of your family, and add 20-25 kg to the figure declared by the manufacturer for greater certainty. Otherwise, the failure of the executive nodes of the simulator or the frame is very likely.

Flywheel Location

Simulators, in which the flywheel is located in the front, provide a straight body position during the exercise, due to which the exercise on this device ensures maximum calorie burning and, as a result, leads to a fairly rapid weight loss;

Devices with rear flywheel, on the contrary, are best suited for pumping all muscle groups due to the natural position of the body on the simulator;

Sportsman's step length

It largely depends on the growth of an athlete, and the degree of his training plays an important role.

1. Compact models with a step length of 35-40 centimeters will suit a beginner or a person of short stature;

2. Models with an average step length of about 45-50 centimeters are an excellent option for people of medium height, as well as ordinary ordinary users;

3. Models with a stride length of over 50 centimeters are an excellent option for trained athletes or tall people whose height exceeds the mark of 185 centimeters;

Existence of possibility of flexible setup of levels of training

An important parameter for those who want to get the maximum effect. The best simulators allow you to adjust up to 20 intensity modes, and their change is carried out online, right during training. In this regard, electromagnetic simulators that regulate the load independently depending on the assigned task are considered to be advanced: losing weight, gaining muscle mass, strengthening the cardiovascular system or other tasks.

The presence of special programs developed for certain conditions of training is also important for successful training. Popular models of simulators, in addition to pre-installed algorithms, make it possible to customize your own training modes based on the degree of your own physical development and the desired result.

Availability of microcomputer and special sensors

The computer greatly expands the functionality of the device. Thanks to him, the athlete receives comprehensive information regarding exercise time, distance traveled, calories expended and the intensity of the load generated by the flywheel. In addition, with special sensors, it is possible to monitor the pulse and even blood pressure, which allows you to closely monitor your own well-being and adjust the load depending on it.

In the following articles, our experts tell how to choose a treadmillsecrets treadmill selection and recommendations for dumbbell picker for practicing at home.

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a guide to purchase.