The History of Elliptical Machines
The presence of elliptical trainers has grown more and more
prevalent in the last few years. Go into any public gym and you
will see that the number of elliptical trainers is more than the
number of treadmills! While the treadmill is a popular method of
exercise, fitness enthusiasts have grown to love and look
forward to a rewarding hour on the elliptical trainer.
With each year, more and more people realize how important it is
to stay fit. Obesity, high cholesterol and more are increasing
among our population, year after year. Children are now getting
diseases formerly seen in elderly adults—all due to the fact
that they are in poor health. With increased aerobic activity,
an individual will add years to their life, as well as
appreciate a stronger body, higher self-confidence and so much
more!
Elliptical trainers are a direct result of individuals wanting a
superior fitness workout. For years, fitness experts have
encouraged cardiovascular exercise to help circulation, burn
fat, build stronger bones and muscles and more. The best results
were garnered from hiking, running and other weight-bearing
activities. Fitness equipment mimicked these natural exercises
with the creation of the treadmill, stepper and others.
Unfortunately, these exercises also contributed to additional
stress on the back, knees and other joints. There was a need for
a machine that could generate maximum cardiovascular
exercise—with minimal stress and pressure on the back and joints.
Enter the elliptical machine. Like many other fitness equipment
pieces, when the elliptical first arrived, it was a huge
success. Some in the fitness industry, however, questioned its
staying power. How long would this one last? The elliptical
machine (and its manufacturers) has silenced those critics. Year
after year, the popularity of elliptical trainers shines. The
goal to create a machine that helped a body expend maximum
calories through minimal pressure was complete.
The term “elliptical” comes from the idea that the exercise
motion performed is a “preferred pattern of movement.” When you
jump on an elliptical machine, the pedals move in an egg-shape
or oval “preferred pattern,” creating a rhythmic, smooth
movement that works your body—without any stress on the back or
joints.
The first elliptical was created by Precor in 1995. A key
component of the 'elliptical machines’ success was due to the
fact that a beginner and expert fitness enthusiast alike could
jump on and receive a superior workout in a variety of
ways—immediately! Reebok came on board with an invaluable
addition to the elliptical
machine design - an upper body workout. In 1997, upper body
handle bars were added for additional benefit. By adding handle
bars that move with the body, an individual can get an upper
body workout that is just as effective as the lower
With each year, elliptical trainers have improved. Today’s
handles pump in perfect coordination with the pedals, enhancing
the workout tremendously. In addition, the upper body handles
create a more natural walking/striding motion for your increased
enjoyment. With premier construction and advanced technological
benefits, each new model and style machine has additional
monitors, features and more for your use.
With the addition of a variety of exciting fitness programs into
premier machines, the fitness community has a great machine to
achieve a range of exercise goals. Since the elliptical machine
mimics the natural movements of your body, you can easily and
effectively burn calories, tone your body and more through its
unique motions. Monitor your workout with the added speed, time
and fitness level readings on the panel in front of you
throughout the length of your workout.
As the number of distributors and manufacturers of elliptical
machines increases, the competitive nature is sure to bring new
and exciting features and benefits to the machine. Give yourself
a great workout on an elliptical machine today!
About the Author: Jennifer Dennis is a successful author and
regular contributor to http://www
.solutions-in-elliptical-trainers.com - a fitness and
treadmill industry resource that features treadmill reviews,
guides, product descriptions and articles.
|
