Exercise

Cross Trainer

Elliptical cross trainers provide an elliptical movement that reduces the stresses and impacts associated with other forms of exercise such as running, or using exercise bikes and other types of fitness equipment. As well as protecting joints from strain, shear and compression type injuries, the elliptical engineers also wanted to ensure that any movement required minimal co-ordination, and involved a maximum proportion of the lower body large muscle groups in order to help promote aerobic fitness gains and efficient fat burning. What they came up with was an elliptical or elliptic type movement, where the feet perform an ellipse, whose long axis is aligned roughly parallel to the ground. The cross trainer was born, and with the addition of upper body handles to work the chest back and arms, it quickly evolved into the elliptical trainer! Today, home-use ellipticals are almost as popular as treadmills, and nowadays there is such a wide range of cross trainer models available

Before Buying A Cheap Elliptical Trainer

Sometimes purchasing a cheap clearance elliptical trainer can prove to be a risky investment. The elliptical cross trainer is a complex piece of fitness equipment that provides a variety of fitness levels to offer a low impact work out. For this reason, the elliptical trainer must be durable and well built. The elliptical trainer mirrors running and walking somewhat like a treadmill, however the difference is that instead of the foot coming down on a hard surface, the feet move in a smooth, seamless ellipse fashion like using an exercise bike. This eliminates a vast amount of damage to the knees, ankles and joints that a treadmill imposes. As a consumer when purchasing a cheap clearance elliptical trainer, one must do some research before buying. The amount you would expect to pay widely depends on if the elliptical trainer is motorized or non-motorized. Other factors include the brand name, the programs available on the elliptical machine, and other options that the machine offers. Also, one needs to pay attention to the length of stride that the elliptical has to offer. It needs to be a minimum of 20 inches for best effectiveness. There are many UK websites that offer cheap clearance elliptical trainers on sale. A person just needs to be aware of the website and make sure it is a reputable website like us that specialises in fitness equipment. There are some good legitimate sales on cheap clearance cross trainers but make sure the company is bricks and mortar

Features To Look Out For

The Braking system - almost all elliptical trainers use magnetic braking, and you will need this option if you want programmes. Lower Body Movement Feel - the feel of a cross trainer is very subjective. Ideally it should feel smooth throughout the range of movement, with a natural stride pattern - not jerky or snatchy, or with a footplate that changes direction very suddenly as it reaches the 'end' of the ellipse. Upper Body Movement Feel - the handles should be comfortable to grip and without significant play as the handles change direction. Check that at high resistance levels, there's no rocking or instability. Ellipse Stride length adjustment - some machines allow you to shorten or lengthen the stride, making it easier to match the machine's movement to your own natural stride pattern. Console feedback and ease of use - how clear and comprehensive is the displayed information? How easy is it to access programmes (if there are any)? Are the buttons clearly visible and easy to use? The Maximum workload - how much workload can the elliptical provide when used flat out? If you're fit look for at least 250 watts. Elliptical Programmes - some can offer variety and motivation by simulating various hill courses, allowing you to create your own or by controlling your heart rate. Power type - some elliptical trainers are self-powered whilst others require a mains connection.