If you’re trying to decide between an elliptical trainer and another piece of exercise equipment, consider the workout advantages an elliptical provides. What’s so special about an elliptical workout? Here are 3 unique advantages of these machines:

#1) Forward & Back Motions Provide Better Workout Results

Almost all elliptical trainers offer both forward and back motion (also called dual action motion). This allows you to work different sets of muscle groups in your legs (hamstrings vs quads) which adds up to more calories burned, more muscles toned and an overall better body workout.

You can’t walk backwards on a treadmill (ok, you can but that might be difficult). And peddling backwards on a bike might not be so helpful. The dual action ability of your elliptical trainer helps you work more muscles. Plus you have the potential to burn more calories

#2) You Get A Lower Impact Workout

A properly designed elliptical crosstrainer mimics your body’s natural stride – the way your foot moves elliptically when walking, running, or jogging. You stand upright striding in a forward or reverse motion. Your feet never leave the pedals.

Because of this, impact is basically eliminated and there is much less overall stress on your knees, hips and back, joints and back. (Just make sure you get a properly designed machine – not one of the cheaper department store versions!)

Because of the lower impact of an elliptical workout, the elliptical machine is becoming very popular with the older population or those who are more easily prone to sports injury.

#3) Upper Body Arm Bars Help You Burn More Calories & Get A Superior Overall Body Workout

Many elliptical trainers offer moveable upper body arm bars. By working both legs and arms, your heart rate elevates more quickly which encourages your body to burn calories faster and more efficiently.

It also results in a lower perceived rate of exertion (basically you don’t feel like you worked as hard as you really did). This may mean that you end up burning more calories, even without feeling like you did much of a workout.

By offering upper body arms, an elliptical machine workout also helps you tone your arms, shoulders and back for better definition.

Those are 3 advantages of working out with your home elliptical. While there are many advantages, just remember to choose a form of exercise you actually enjoy doing. Because in the end – it’s how much you actually use it that makes a good piece of fitness equipment.

Kathryn ONeill writes for http://www.EllipticalTrainerReview.com a site offering the latest elliptical brand reviews, ratings and discount links.

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