If you are going to buy an elliptical trainer for your home, then below are 5 tips on how to make the right choice and save money on your purchase.
Home fitness is not only convenient and useful, it also helps you save a lot of time and money. Moreover, modern home simulators are multifunctional, practical and compact. In order to place a fitness trainer at home, you do not have to be the owner of a spacious mansion. Many models fit easily into one square meter space.
One of the most popular fitness machines is the elliptical trainer. It has many advantages over a treadmill. Firstly, exercises on an elliptical trainer have practically no contraindications. Soft, natural movements are safe for joints and spine. Secondly, during the workout, the maximum number of muscles of the whole body is involved. This allows you to quickly achieve your goal without harm to health. And finally, the elliptical trainer, which is not inferior in efficiency, is cheaper than a treadmill.
First advice. We test the simulator before buying
The advantage of the elliptical trainer is that it follows the natural movement of walking or running, but without shock loading. It is important to take into account that each person has his own characteristics of movement and constitution. At the same time, there is no universal criterion that determines which simulator is best for which user. Therefore, before buying, do not be lazy to test the simulators in the store - this is the only way you can find the perfect option. Naturally, the most popular models have the maximum number of settings and adjustments. For example, an elliptical trainer with the ability to adjust the length of the stride and change the incline of the pedals is perfect for a family.
Second advice. We take into account the main parameters and cost
All exercise machines are classified into commercial (for use in fitness centers) and home. The latter have a lower cost and are specially designed for home use. There are magnetic and electromagnetic trainers depending on the principle of loading. The second option is more expensive, although it has a smoother ride and better load control.
There is another important point to consider when choosing an elliptical trainer, namely, the location of the flywheel. The advantage of front-wheel drive models is that the pedals are closer together (the so-called minimum Q-factor). This feature makes movements during training more natural, the feet are closer to each other, as in normal walking.
Third advice. Don't forget about individual settings
Elliptical trainers also differ from each other in the following characteristics: stride length, flywheel mass, number of built-in programs and load levels. Longer stride machines are generally more suitable for tall people. But there is no universal recipe, so don't forget about the importance of testing before buying. In turn, the mass of the flywheel affects the smoothness of movement. The higher it is, the smoother the movements are provided by the simulator.
The built-in programs will help you diversify your workouts on the elliptical trainer. With their help, you can run a marathon, conquer mountain peaks or run intense cross-country cross-country. Typically, programs are set by goal: for example, cardio training or weight loss. For example, for weight loss, it is recommended to train for at least 45 minutes in the heart rate zone 60-70% of the maximum. It should be remembered that before training, you need to do a warm-up, and after its end - a hitch. Built-in programs will help you not to forget about this rules. In addition, depending on the progress of the exercise and the level of physical fitness, you can adjust the level of stress.
Fourth advice. Pay attention to the reliability of the simulator
Reliability is an important criterion when choosing a simulator. But it cannot be determined without using the simulator for a long time. Indirect indicators of reliability are the following factors: the use of bearings in the joints, rather than bushings; simulator weight and warranty period. In order not to be mistaken with the choice, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the reviews of other users in Russia and Europe before buying.
Fifth advice. Useful little things
Buying a fitness machine is a long-term investment and would like it to pay off every day, rather than turn into a clothes hanger. Useful little things will make your workouts even more comfortable and interesting. First of all, this concerns the possibility of measuring the heart rate with chest sensors (it is more accurate), the presence of a bottle for water, the ability to connect gadgets (for example, tablets) and the use of a fitness application, the convenience of switching the load, etc.
And at the end, I would like to remind you once again that it is difficult to choose a simulator suitable for you in absentia. Test, test and test again - only in this case you will not be mistaken with your choice and make a really profitable and useful purchase.
Expert: Denis Pashkov, "Fitness-Boutique" company
