The Benefits of Elliptical Workout

Elliptical machines have become a popular choice for cardio workouts due to their many benefits. In addition to a good cardio workout, elliptical machines are multi-functional, multi-directional and easy on the joints. These benefits make the elliptical machine attractive to a wide range of people from the elderly to the workout enthusiast.

  1. Cardiovascular Improvements

    • Cardio workouts are important to prevent or reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to preventing heart disease, cardio workouts also improve heart functions, help to lose weight, burn off body fat, improve oxygen intake and flow, improve lung functions, lower blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol and tone muscles.

    Multi-Directional

    • The elliptical machine can go both forward and backwards. Both directions trigger a different muscular response. Going forward tends to stimulate the hamstrings more and going backward tends to stimulate the quadriceps more.

    Low Impact

    • The greatest benefit of an elliptical workout is the low impact on the ankle, knee and hip joints. When walking or running, the impact of the ground sends jolts throughout the joints from the ankles up through the lower back. This jolting impact can lead to injuries such as joint pain, swelling, sprains and shin splints. With an elliptical, the feet never leave the footpad during the exercise movement, thus eliminating unnecessary stress to the joints.

    Upper Body

    • Elliptical machines have moving handlebars for participants to get an upper body workout at the same time as a lower body workout. The moving handlebars simulate cross-country skiing and increases the overall intensity of the workout and calories burned. The repetitive arm movement may also lead to a toning effect on the arm muscles.

    Core Strengthening

    • Performing the elliptical motion, without holding onto any handlebars, calls upon the core muscles to be constantly contracted. The core muscles (rectus abdominus, transverse abdominus, internal and external obliques and the lower back) provide stability and balance to perform this movement.

    Other Benefits

    • Elliptical machines are weight-bearing exercises that develop greater bone density and prevent health conditions like osteoporosis. Also, elliptical machines have multiple options to choose from different workout programs, intensity levels, speed, difficulty and more. These options can provide for a more challenging workout.