Get That Body Moving Elliptically!

The best exercise routines are those that involve repeated elliptical movements — that is, movements in what amounts to a squashed circular shape. Generally, the best and most efficient elliptical exercise is machine-based. For a little more on what this means, check out this Elliptical Trainer Consumers Guide. The classic elliptical exercise methods are all well and good, but with elliptical machines you get a better low-impact workout…and you never have to worry about bad weather or mean dogs ruining your day.

If you’re an elliptical rookie, you should be aware that elliptical exercise machines come in a number of distinct types. Remember the old Nordic Track? That was one of the first popular elliptical machines. Treadmills — including the one you’ve got hidden behind the bookcase — are also effective elliptical exercise machines. Stair-steppers, exercise bikes, and those weird contraptions that jerk your arms back and forth or make you go up and down (or both): they’re all elliptical trainers, or ellipticals for short.

One of the best things about most ellipticals is that they provide an impact-free workout, which is gentle on backs, knees, hips, and joints, all areas that can suffer shocks in the course of a traditional workout. Clearly, then, exercise equipment that allows an elliptical workout — whether it’s some high-tech elliptical machine or a plain treadmill — is a godsend for those of us old enough to have acquired a few aches and pains along life’s journey. Ellipticals offer an excellent, low- or no-impact alternative to giving up on exercise completely.

There are so many elliptical options, though, that it can be hard to find the one that’s right for your pocketbook and lifestyle. Allow us to help you with that! Check out these treadmill reviews for more information on not just the types of ellipticals available, but the major brands and models. They’ll give you a good idea of what’s out there to choose from.