What is the side effects of elliptical machines? Do they deliver as promised?
Well:
Based on who you are asking, there is a pretty big chance the answer you get is quite different.
The elliptical trainer is loved by a lot of people – but is frowned upon by just as many.
Strange!
How come there can be so many different opinions related to one single piece of exercise equipment?
Read on, and I’ll explain…
Contents
Why So Popular If Not All Good?
The growing popularity of these machines since the mid-90s has seen them become an essential addition to most gyms.
Superb models such as the Bowflex and NordicTrack ellipticals are part of thousands of home gym setups, and fitness enthusiasts like yourself all over the world love them.
However, despite some well-known benefits, these machines are not the best fit for everyone:
- If you are looking to gain muscle, then this is not the machine for you.
- If you had a previous knee injury, you need to keep away from the elliptical and maybe try out a different type of exercise.
- For anyone looking to burn a ton of calories in one session, there are better options out there.
Try incorporating a few more exercises into your regimen to see maximum benefits. Being too dependent on one type of cardio will slow down your gains and will in the long term hurt your motivation.
But Elliptical Machines Work, Don’t They?
Don’t worry; an elliptical machine is not all evil, though.
It cannot have become increasingly popular if it was not all good, right?
An elliptical can help you lose a good amount of weight while used on the regular. If you are looking to burn off some extra calories and shred some of that fat – then this is the ideal equipment for your use!
As with all exercise equipment, the results are, of course, all dependent on factors such as; your age, gender, weight, and determination.
The machine itself can comfortably fit in your home for frequent use. This means you can get a chance to catch up on your TV shows when exercising.
Hurray!
3 Must-Know Side Effects of Elliptical Machines
So, what about the cons then?
What are the side effects of elliptical machines?
Here goes:
Although the elliptical trainer is a more than decent exercise equipment, it comes with a fair share of cons.
“Easy” Cardio
Among others, it has been said to fail the human test…
What is this, you ask?
Well, it is quite simple:
Put 50 people in the gym with two types of machines – the elliptical and the treadmill, and see where most people will run to. The obvious answer is that the “lazier” option will sadly appeal to many.
The elliptical machine is known to be the easy way out since there is less work being done while going at it.
While the treadmill forces your body to work non-stop to keep from being physically thrown off the machine, the elliptical will give you the option to reduce the intensity when it’s getting tough.
And that is a BIG con!
Is There Such A Thing As Too Simple?
Apparently, there is!
Some people claim elliptical machines are too easy.
The moves are so simple that even a newbie can hack them in one session.
Imagine that!
Others call it too dull. Why? Because it only warrants the same moves over and over again.
Granted that the intensity can be changed to mirror walking or cycling scenarios, there isn’t much diversity to it.
If you are looking for equipment challenging your balance, strength, and cardio – this is not it!
The Dangers of Elliptical Machines
It has been noted that in some cases, the elliptical machine exacerbates some conditions rather than improving them.
Take a leg injury, for example:
The forced movement provided by the elliptical can be your worst enemy due to the unnatural way you swing your feet.
“The biomechanics of these machines
livestrong.com – How to Avoid Knee Pain on the Elliptical Trainermean they are not ideal for your knees in every situation. An elliptical workout may lead to or worsen knee pain in some circumstances.”
I would highly recommend consulting your doctor if you have an injured leg and are considering using an elliptical trainer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Using the elliptical everyday can have several positive effects on your health and fitness. It helps improve cardiovascular endurance, burn calories, and strengthen muscles in your legs, arms, and core. Consistent use of the elliptical can contribute to weight loss, increased stamina, and overall fitness improvement. However, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overtraining or excessive strain on your joints.
Ellipticals are generally considered good for you. They provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout that is gentle on the joints, making them suitable for individuals with joint pain or injuries. Ellipticals help improve cardiovascular health, promote weight loss, and strengthen various muscle groups. However, it’s important to use proper form, avoid overexertion, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any specific concerns or medical conditions.
Thirty minutes on the elliptical can be a sufficient amount of time for a cardiovascular workout, especially if you maintain a moderate to high intensity during that time. The duration of your workout depends on your fitness level, goals, and overall exercise routine. If your goal is weight loss, combining the elliptical with other exercises and maintaining a healthy diet will be more effective.
An elliptical machine combines movements similar to running, walking, and climbing stairs. It has two foot pedals and two handles for your hands. By standing on the pedals and moving your feet in an elliptical motion, you simulate walking or running while the machine’s resistance provides the workout intensity. The handles allow you to engage your upper body, providing a full-body workout experience.
Read more: How Does an Elliptical Machine Work? The Elliptical Trainer 101
Ellipticals are generally considered low-impact and are not usually bad for your hips. They provide a smooth and fluid motion, reducing stress on the joints compared to high-impact activities like running. However, individuals with pre-existing hip conditions or injuries should consult with a healthcare professional to determine if using an elliptical is appropriate for them.
Using an elliptical can be beneficial for weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and overall exercise routine. Ellipticals provide a cardiovascular workout that helps burn calories and promote fat loss. However, it’s important to create a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than you burn. Incorporating varied exercises and maintaining a healthy diet will contribute to more effective and sustainable weight loss.
Final Words: Weigh the Pros And Cons
Look at it this way; you want to go to the gym, lose a few pounds, shed a few calories, and maybe even tone a few body parts.
While you would look at the elliptical machine and think that this is the ideal machine for you to use, try finding another alternative.
Swimming, for example, is one such way to ensure you slot in some much-needed cardiovascular exercises and build loads of strength while at it!
Or try out the treadmill and challenge your body to its maximum.
The point?
Depending on your goals, the elliptical is not suited to everyone. Take your current health situation into account, and know what you want to achieve before choosing exercise equipment!
Oh, and one last thing:
Before you leave, check out my cardio training archive LOADED with helpful tips, hacks, and workout routines!
Other Helpful Resources
- The 5 Best Ellipticals For Low Ceilings: Reviews and Top Picks
- Elliptical Benefits and Disadvantages: Elliptical Trainer Review
- Is Elliptical Better Than Running? Elliptical vs Running – The Showdown
- Bowflex vs NordicTrack Elliptical: Comparison and Reviews
- How Does an Elliptical Machine Work? The Elliptical Trainer 101