Elliptical Machines & Cross Trainers

Elliptical Machines

Many fitness practitioners agree that cardio is an essential component of a successful workout routine. However, it’s no secret that running causes wear and tear on your joints and knees. There is an alternative: elliptical machines. These allow people to perform upper and lower body cardio exercises simultaneously and safely.

Bringing the gym experience to your home makes exercise fun and easy. Most people choose to obtain treadmills, however, they can be hard on your joints and the noise can be disturbing to other house members. These devices are a great alternative and Abt has models from top brands such as Horizon Fitness, Spirit Fitness, and Matrix.

Low Impact, High Output

Whether you’re trying to stay in or training for the next marathon, elliptical machines allow users to perform low-impact cardio. That’s because your feet never lift off the pedals, thus avoiding the toll that running would have on your body. Due to the low impact of the machine, users who are rehabbing from a lower-body injury or have bad knees can still get in their fitness routine.

For those looking to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of every workout, these are the perfect option. This machine provides full-body physical exertion that can burn more calories than traditional forms of cardio.

Another great benefit that can’t be found jogging? The tracking capabilities. It’ll provide feedback such as the distance, time, speed, heart rate, and calories burned. Over time, you’ll be able to monitor and track your progress as you improve. Elliptical machines are becoming more high-tech as some have built-in wireless connectivity to connect to a fitness app. This allows you to track your workouts, compare and compete with other people and even access a library of exercise routines. Seeing your results and having accountability partners is an excellent way to stay motivated towards your fitness goals.

Customize Your Workout

With regular cardio, you don’t have much control over your outdoor environment. Elliptical machines have the functionality to customize the practice based on your stamina and goals. These machines have adjustable inclines and resistance to meet your needs. Increasing the incline will change the muscle groups that you’re targeting, which is an excellent way to add variety into your routine and reduce boredom. You can adjust the resistance to ensure you’re getting a challenging experience every time!

Unlike standard treadmills, ellipticals provide a full-body workout. They are designed with arm handles so that you can push them back and forth while you move your legs. The resistance of the handles will allow you to push the muscles in your chest, back and shoulders.

In addition, many have an interval training mode. Typically with interval training, you are performing 30 or 60 seconds of high-intensive fitness followed by 15 to 30 seconds of recovery. High-intensity interval training burns more calories faster and increases your metabolic rate hours after your workout.

Ellipticals also have an adjustable stride length, which adjusts the distance between the pedal during an elliptical motion. Longer strides provide users with a smoother feel while also targeting your leg muscles more fully and burning more calories.

Move Around in the Comfort of Your Home

Waiting in line at the gym can be incredibly frustrating. However, adding one to your home gym can save you money on gym memberships and commutes to the gym.

Ellipticals allow everyday people to have access to a high-quality workout without leaving their homes. Abt offers a wide selection, including models from TRUE, Body-Solid, Pro-Form, and Life Fitness. If you have any questions, contact our exercise equipment specialists at 800-860-3577. Read our Cardio Machine Buying Guide for more information.