Modern manufacturers of simulators offer increasingly advanced models. Some of them are elliptical. During the development of this technique, lengthy technical and medical tests were carried out using prototypes. This allowed manufacturers to produce elliptical trainers with a guarantee of safety and reliability. In addition, by purchasing such a sports and fitness equipment, each user will certainly achieve the goal.
Before purchasing a simulator, each of us wants to be sure that the product will meet all expectations and will bring only benefit. So, before buying, you should understand how to choose an elliptical trainer, and why it is needed.
Benefit
Elliptical trainers are a design that includes a stationary bike and stepper, as well as a treadmill. They were invented relatively recently, only fifteen to twenty years ago. However, due to their high efficiency, these sports and fitness equipment took a leading place among similar devices.
Doctors say that exercises on elliptical trainers are safe for joints. Treadmills that are widely represented in existing fitness centers cannot boast of such a characteristic. During classes, these seemingly harmless simulators produce shock loads on the joints.
If we consider fitness, then here elliptical trainers overtake their closest "relatives", which are steppers, treadmills and exercise bikes. With these latest sports equipment, you can develop all parts of the body, since the force also affects the area of the shoulder girdle. During training, the muscles of the arms and shoulders, chest and back, legs and hips, as well as buttocks are included in the work.
The pedals on this simulator smoothly move along an elliptical path. This minimizes the load exerted on the knee and ankle joints. The positive thing about elliptical trainers is that they provide for a varied movement (both forward and backward). During classes on such a sports equipment, it is recommended to set various types of cardio loads. It can be easy walking and running, climbing stairs or along a steep slope. In any case, the effect of this cardio simulator will be achieved: you will lose weight, and also strengthen the respiratory and cardiac systems. After a training course, endurance increases and coordination improves.
Load Regulation Method
So, you have the following question: “How to choose an elliptical trainer?” Before buying, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main types of these sports and health-improving equipment, which differ in principle of operation, that is, in the way of load regulation. Only in this case you will figure out how to choose the right elliptical trainer.
So, there are mechanical shells. Such a simulator sets in motion the force exerted by a person. Such a system slows down due to either tension or loosening of the belt. If you want to change the load level on such a simulator, you will need to twist a special regulator. And this is not so easy. As a rule, such actions lead to the fact that the load changes spasmodically. The simulator loses smoothness. This, in turn, negatively affects the knee joints. In addition, this sports equipment is very noisy.But if you want to choose an elliptical trainer for the house at a low price, then pay attention to mechanical models.
In the market of sports equipment, more high-tech sports devices are also offered. These are magnetic elliptical trainers. They have a different braking system. She works on a natural magnet. Otherwise, the load level changes in these simulators. It can be adjusted using a small motor - a servo drive that moves the magnet either closer to the flywheel, or further from it.
In the first of these two positions, the resistance created by the sports apparatus will be greater. In order to adjust the load level, you just need to click on the appropriate buttons on its front panel. Of course, it is better to choose an elliptical trainer for this type of house. It has great smoothness and easy adjustment with high accuracy and a wide range. In addition, this sports equipment is relatively silent and durable in use.
Manufacturers of elliptical trainers also offer electromagnetic type devices. In them, the load is regulated at the smallest intervals. This is facilitated by the electric drive, which moves the magnet relative to the flywheel. Such simulators have a large list of diverse functions. They allow you to set certain programs for training processes and assess the physical fitness of a person.
The computer built into such a sports equipment sets the distance and the necessary heart rate. You can set on it and the duration of the training. If you do not know how to choose an elliptical trainer, then pay attention to models of this type. Of course, such sports equipment are among the most expensive. However, they are the most silent, as well as accurate to adjust and very durable. The price of such simulators depends on the number of built-in programs and the mass of the flywheel. They will cost you at least ten thousand rubles.
Drive system
What else to look for if you are faced with the question of how to choose an elliptical trainer? You should familiarize yourself with the drive system of various models. It is divided into two types. The first of them is front-wheel drive. Such elliptical trainers were invented relatively recently. In these sports equipment, the drive system and flywheel are located in the front. This allows you to ensure a vertical position of the body during training. Such models are best bought by people of high stature, because there is no chance of knees hitting the frame.
The second type - rear-wheel simulators. These models with a flywheel at the rear are more traditional. During training on such sports equipment, a person leans forward a bit, as in a normal run. Rear-wheel trainers usually have a longer leg area. This makes it possible to change the position of the body in large ranges.
Main characteristics
If you do not know how to choose an elliptical trainer for home, reviews of those who already use this sports equipment will certainly help. It is recommended to pay attention to such a parameter as step length. This is one of the most important characteristics of an elliptical trainer that sets the amplitude of movements, that is, the effectiveness of the training itself. On this parameter, how to choose an elliptical trainer? The step length for models that belong to the first and middle level is a fixed value equal to forty centimeters. Exercise machines of professional type have the ability to adjust this parameter. But it should be borne in mind that their cost is significantly higher.
These sports equipment and the weight of the flywheel differ. The larger it is, the more evenly the load produced on the knee joints will be distributed.In addition, with a larger mass of the flywheel, movements during training become smoother. In simulators intended for home use, this part weighs an average of ten kilograms. When buying, it should be borne in mind that the larger the mass of the flywheel, the more expensive the sports equipment itself.
How to choose an elliptical trainer for weight loss? At home, you can conduct effective workouts by setting various programs. Such a function is present, as a rule, in simulators of the electromagnetic type. Programs, according to a special algorithm, can either increase or decrease the load. Some models of simulators have heart rate programs. They adjust the load level depending on the person’s heart rate. There are also models of elliptical trainers in which there is a function of independent programming.
As a standard feature of this sports equipment, as a rule, pulse meters are built into the handrail. But it is worth bearing in mind that the accuracy of these devices is not enough. With their help, the average heart rate is recorded in a separate period of time. Built-in heart rate meters on simulators are not very convenient. They give evidence only if the hands are on the handrails.
If you decide to purchase an elliptical trainer, which one to choose? User reviews indicate that the models in which the pulse meters can be attached to the body are more comfortable. It should be borne in mind that the presence of this device is a prerequisite for cardio training. This is especially important in those models where heart rate programs are installed. The pulse meter can be purchased separately. In this case, you will need to determine its compatibility with your sports equipment.
Additional recommendations
The best elliptical trainer for home is magnetic or electromagnetic. It is these types of sports equipment that have an acceptable cost. The choice of a specific model will depend on the frequency of training. If you plan to practice five or more times a week, then a sports equipment is better to get an average level. It is desirable that it be equipped with an electromagnetic system. If the intensity of your classes does not exceed 2-3 times a week, then a magnetic type model will be enough.
How to choose an elliptical trainer for growth? For a tall person (180 cm and above), it is advisable to buy a front-wheel drive sports equipment.
In modern models of simulators there is also such a characteristic as the limit of the allowable weight of the user. You should also pay attention to this when purchasing. The permissible weight recommended for the simulator must exceed your weight by at least fifteen kilograms. Otherwise, the simulator will quickly fail.
When choosing a model of sports equipment should take into account the area occupied by it. On average, the size of the base of the elliptical training equipment is within one and a half meters. In addition, free space is required for the movement of the handles and pedals.
What should be done when purchasing a simulator?
Immediately before buying the selected model, you should conduct a test drive. Within five minutes, it is worth scrolling the pedals, checking their reverse, and also make sure that the computer and heart rate monitor are working.
Testing simulators can be carried out sequentially, starting with the cheapest models, moving on to the most expensive. Only in this way will the difference between them become clear.
So, you get an elliptical trainer. Which one to choose so that his work does not disappoint you? Pay attention to the control panel. It should be clear and comfortable. Important and smooth pedal movement. They should move along an elliptical trajectory and without jumps.
In such a simulator, the smoothness of any move matters - both forward and backward.During training, there should be no tension in the spine and joints, as well as a desire to grab the handrails for support.
Uniform and smooth running should be at the levers for the hands. The height of the handrails corresponding to your height will save you from unnecessary load on the back. Check the simulator in all operating modes. It should not make loud sounds even at maximum load. The product should be checked for mechanical safety. The sports equipment should not knock and swing when the flywheel is moving.
Which manufacturer is better?
Which elliptical trainers should I choose? The most popular is the equipment of the German company Heinz-Kettler GmbH & Co. KG used by people all over the world. The company was founded in 1949, and over the entire period of its work has produced and sold more than a thousand different types of products. This list contains steppers and power, as well as elliptical trainers, tennis tables, etc.
Many users choose the Kettler brand, because they know that this equipment is manufactured using the highest German technologies, and medical specialists took part in its creation.
In addition, the company exercises control over the production of products at all stages of the technological process.
A great advantage of Kettler simulators is the tested and well-thought-out biomechanics and ergonomics.
All equipment of the company is designed in such a way as not to exert excessive loads on the knees, ankle and spine. This can significantly reduce the risk of injury during training.
Kettler elliptical trainers are not only German build quality. Such equipment has an attractive appearance and is rich in various settings. Simulators will be appreciated even by the most sophisticated buyers.
Products brand "Torneo"
The production of sports equipment is also involved in the Italian company Amberton Group. It manufactures products under the Torneo brand.
In the CIS countries, the goods of this company have been sold since 1999. Prior to this, residents of America and Europe bought them with pleasure. In these sports equipment, buyers are attracted by a successful combination of price and quality. The company guarantees the effectiveness of classes and a great effect on health and body. It was these moments that provided the company’s sports equipment with a high image.
Impeccable quality is the elliptical trainer Torneo. It affects all muscle groups and helps maintain excellent shape.
Torneo elliptical trainers are available with both electromagnetic and conventional magnetic load functions. This equipment is designed with a convenient control panel on which a high-precision color display is located. Elliptical trainers of the popular Italian company have a large selection of programs and correctly selected training tasks. The high quality of this sports equipment is evidenced by a rather large warranty period, which is five years. Pleases buyers and the flexibility of the price range.
Fitness equipment
The American company American Fitness has been producing various sports equipment since 1976. The elliptical Fitness Trainer is very popular with customers all over the world. These are certified and very high-quality products, designed not only for professional use, but also for home training. Such a simulator can be assigned to a program developed by one’s own, and then saved to the device’s memory. The standard equipment of this sports equipment includes a chest high-precision heart rate monitor, which creates additional comfort when using.
Oxygen simulators
Good sports equipment is also produced under the Taiwanese brand. Among the large assortment of products is the elliptical trainer Oxygen.The main stake is on design, low price and compactness of the goods.
This brand is popular all over the world. Highly qualified specialists from Norway, Taiwan and the USA are working on the development of sports equipment manufactured under the Oxygen brand. Only those models that have been tested and received the relevant certificates go on sale.
Oxygen elliptical trainers are also popular in the Russian market. They are attractive to customers for their affordability and quality of performance. In elliptical models of the specified company there is all the functionality necessary for effective training. In addition, these sports equipment, made in a modern design, are perfect for the interior of any room. Even the most fastidious buyer will find a model that suits him in terms of functionality, size and cost.
Exercise machines Hasttings
This sports equipment is manufactured in Taiwan and in China. However, the elliptical trainer Hasttings was developed by an American company. Such sports equipment is distinguished by its functionality, design and low price.
The range of these elliptical trainers includes all the variety of these sports equipment. The buyer is offered equipment from simple magnetic to electromagnetic having great functionality. These simulators are designed for a user who has a mass of up to one hundred and one hundred fifty kilograms.
All the necessary functions for an effective workout are available in the simplest magnetic models (this is a pulse measurement, test and duration of the lesson, as well as counting calories). For convenient movement, such simulators are equipped with rollers.
