Elliptical machines are one of the most popular and commonly used pieces of cardio equipment in the gym. They’re such a popular choice due to their versatility and the vigorous activity they provide to users. With benefits ranging from burning fat and calories through to improving aerobic capacity and assisting with a variety of different fitness goals, it’s no wonder why the interest around elliptical cross trainers and gliders only continues to grow.
People often opt for elliptical machines because they allow for low-impact cross-training that’s still as dynamic as other cardio types. Whether you’re thinking about adding an elliptical machine to your home gym or you want to know which equipment you should use in the gym, here are the two main types of elliptical machines that gym-goers usually use.
Elliptical Gliders
Glider exercise machines are a great form of cardio. Their low-impact nature means they’re a trusted go-to for many cardio and aerobic exercise lovers, as they don’t put too much pressure on the knees, ankles and other joints. Working on the large muscle groups in your legs, glider machines are also good for improving the cardiovascular system and boosting endurance.
Typically used together with interval training, it should be known that elliptical machines in the form of gliders only work out the lower part of the body. As they force the user’s legs to provide the range power, they’re a good way to work out hip flexors, glutes and quads.
While they focus on the lower section of your body, elliptical gliders are still a good way to burn calories and lose fat. For optimal results, it’s recommended that you use a glider together with other machine types so that you’re working on more than one area.
Elliptical Cross Trainers
Elliptical cross trainers are mainly used because of their many practical benefits for physical health and improvement. In general, cross training is used as a means to boost a workout and make the session more exciting for the gym-goer, as it encompasses different kinds of exercises and also works on a range of different muscle groups for better results.
In comparison to glider elliptical machines, elliptical cross trainers are popular as they allow for a cardio workout that targets both the lower and upper body – a type of training you can’t achieve with the everyday elliptical machine. On an elliptical cross trainer, users have both pedals to work out their arms and legs and, therefore, tone and build muscle in both areas. Beyond the hip flexors and glutes, elliptical cross trainers provide users with a way to work out the triceps, biceps and more.
With elliptical cross trainers, users can achieve many different health and fitness benefits. Allowing for a dynamic and active cardio session, elliptical cross trainers are useful for muscle toning, endurance training, improving fitness levels and more. Most machines will also come with many helpful features so you can track your workouts, heart rate and calories burned.