Treadmills
may still be very popular at health clubs. And stationary bikes seem to be making
a comeback, but the fitness equipment that is growing the fastest in popularity
is the elliptical exerciser.
The
use of an elliptical exerciser has increased 158% in the past five years. The
growth as increased from 1.1 million users to 6.7 million.
The
growing popularity of elliptical exercisers and stationary bikes may be a result
of the rising number of older Americans. The low-impact workout they provide seems
to be appealing to the over 55 crowd. It also is attracting younger users who
are concerned about injuries.
In
comparison treadmills can be high-impact, particularly if you are a runner or
jogger. It is estimated that the impact of a runner on a treadmill is 2.5 times
the users weight. That consists of quite a jolt to ankles, knees and your back.
What
are the Benefits of a Elliptical Exercisers?
If
you lead a very busy lifestyle! Squeezing in sufficient time for exercise is next
to impossible. But, what if I told you that you could get an efficient workout
in less time on an elliptical exercise machine?
That's
right! Because ellipticals are capable of exercising both the upper AND lower
body at the same time, you can get in a great exercise session in as little as
20 minutes. Now, 20 minutes is hardly anything out of a 24-hour day! Surely you
can spare so little time for the sake of your body's fitness?
What
other factors make an elliptical training machine beneficial? One fact that instantly
comes to mind is that this type of equipment is VERY low-impact! For this reason,
alone, the elliptical would be ideal for older individuals who want to get in
shape or maintain their current level of fitness. It would also be good for those
who are rehabilitating from running injuries.
Elliptical
exercisers still lag behind treadmills in overall popularity, with 10.9 treadmill
users. The primary reason is that anyone can walk. But the treadmill only works
the lower body, and elliptical exerciser offers both an upper and lower body workout.
You workout more of the body without beating up your joints.
The
first impression with an elliptical exerciser can be intimidating, but once most
people try them they tend to be hooked. For the most part they are easy to operate,
but many models have a variety of challenging programs.
To
learn more about elliptical exercisers check out our ratings and reviews.
