Elliptical trainers are a tried-and-true piece of fitness equipment that may be used for a variety of purposes. They allow people to do full-body cardio exercises without putting their muscles and joints under unnecessary strain. People who want a high- or low-impact workout benefit from this piece of fitness equipment.
As with any piece of technology, elliptical trainers have developed numerous times throughout the years, becoming more dynamic and effective with each iteration. We are going to talk about a few different types of elliptical trainers that are on the market now, and we explain what each one can do for you.
Types of Elliptical Trainers – Based on The Location of The Drive
There are three main types of elliptical trainers based on the location of the elliptical’s motor, which is also known as the drive. Theya are
Front Drive Elliptical
Ellipticals with a front drive are, in nearly every sense, the opposite of ellipticals with a read drive. The flywheel is in the front of the machine, and the roller tracks are in the back. In contrast to rear-drive ellipticals, which have pedals that slide along tracks, this style’s pedals have more of a vertical range of movement.
This type of elliptical can provide a workout similar to that of a stair climber, depending on the slope of the elliptical. For people who have limited mobility, front drive ellipticals may be a good option because the machine doesn’t require the person to step over it to get on or get off of it.
Center Drive Elliptical
The most recent incarnation of the generic elliptical format is the center-drive elliptical. Usually, the flywheel is located on either side of the pedals. Center drive ellipticals, like front drive elliptical machines, move vertically and resemble stair climber machines.
Center drive ellipticals encourage the user to remain more upright during their workout by discouraging forward leaning or handrail use. Center drive ellipticals are often a little smaller than both front and rear drive models. This is because the flywheel is placed parallel to the pedals.
For this reason, people who have a home gym love this type of elliptical machine because it’s easy to use. The pedals are more closely spaced and operate in a more vertical position on this model, which reduces the stress on the hips and knees even more.
Rear Drive Elliptical
In spite the age-old design, the rear-drive elliptical remains one of the most effective and widely used elliptical trainer designs. Precor first came up with this design in 1995, and it had a flywheel at the back of the machine.
Back-drive ellipticals feature a smooth and stable range of motion because of the flywheel’s position. In addition, because the flywheel is located at the back of the machine, the machine’s center of balance is located closer to the center. In addition, a longer and natural stride is usually possible.
Types of Elliptical Trainers – Based on Combo Feature
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose a variety of elliptical trainers in a variety of sizes and configurations.
Standard Elliptical Trainers
The conventional elliptical trainer is undoubtedly recognizable to the majority of people. This machine is equipped with foot pedals that you will stand on, as well as a handlebar that you will grab onto in the front.
This elliptical trainer, in contrast to some others, does not have a moving handlebar, which means that you will be working mostly your lower body muscles, such as your quads, glutes, hamstrings, while you move the pedals in a circular manner on this machine.
Elliptical Cross-Trainers
An elliptical cross-trainer is a great option if you’re searching for a full-body exercise. Unlike most ellipticals, this one has movable handles for your arms in addition to the usual pedals for your legs. When you cycle and exercise your lower body on an elliptical cross-trainer, you’re simultaneously working your elbow, shoulder, back, and chest.
Elliptical Glider
The glider is the next type of elliptical machine you can buy. A n elliptical glider resembles a normal elliptical in appearance. Main difference is that pedals do not rotate circularly. Rather, the elliptical glider pedals travel up and down in a backward motion, but you can also gain additional resistance by gliding forward. This is how it works. Elliptical gliders are so named because you essentially glide along on them as you work out. This gives your legs a great workout.
Recumbent Elliptical
Some elliptical machines do not require you to stand while using them. Because it is recumbent, you can work out while sitting down. The longer pedaling motion on a recumbent elliptical result in less stress on the joints than on a recumbent exercise bike. Like a cross-trainer, a recumbent elliptical has handles on either side of the machine that allow you to move forward and backward. It’s ideal for those with limited mobility because it provides a wide range of comfort and adjustment options.
Choosing the Right Type of Elliptical Trainer
An elliptical machine is a must-have piece of equipment for any home gym, and there are a range of different models to choose from. If you want to keep track of your progress and other vital information while exercising, a display a must feature on the machine. For those who aren’t a fan of running, an elliptical machine may be the best alternative for your workout regimen.
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