Elliptical Trainers!!

[suzannaerin]

Hi - Could I get your feedback on elliptical trainers? Do you like them? How intense is the workout. What is the best manufacturer? I'm considering investing in one because I need some low impact cardio options!
Thanks, suzanne

 

[Me2]

Hi Suzanne. I have a Precor EFX Elliptical trainer. I love it! It delivers a great intense low impact workout. The first few times I did it, I didn't think I would get as good of a workout as I do when I do my treadmill. But, I must say, I was sweating just as much and my heart rate was just as high. I usually set the resistance on "7" and vary the incline. I do love it, but for some reason, I don't use it very often. I always go back to the treadmill, and Cathe cardio. But when I need less impact, I get on the elliptical trainer! Another plus is that it is soooo quiet!

Linda

 

[susanz]

My hubby and I are going to be getting the Nautilus Elliptical trainer this weekend. I've only tested it out so far and was very impressed. My hubby has used the one at his corporate fitness center and says it's the only piece of machine he'll use. He wants to get one for home so I'm not bouncing around on my knees all the time! Susan

 

[l23]

Suzanne,
I have one by Nordic Track (was on sale at Sears). It has all the gadgets, but I mainly use the timer and intensity levels. I use it maybe once a week when I don't feel like going the the gym or doing a video- or if there's a good show on tv, I can watch it and workout. I only do about 30mins (the length of a sitcom- coincidence?!) but it gets my HR up and really works the lower body.

You should try one before you buy. But if you like them, have the money and space, and think you'll use it, go for it.

PS- this topic was mentioned in the past, so you might want to do a search to see other responses.

 

[LuvCardio]

Suzanne - I have the Proform 700 Crosstrainer and love it! I got it off of www.iconfitness.com for cheap! I tried the same unit at the store before purchasing. They have great prices, fast delivery and you can even set up payments over a period of a few months and they just hit your credit card. They often have specials where you get free shipping. This is the 3rd piece of equipment I have bought from them. The first was a NordicTrack elliptical that I sold because the stride was too long for me. Next I bought a universal wt system that has leg presses, extensions, overhead pull down, pull up bars etc.. Then, I lastly bought the Proform elliptical which I love! If you are shorter I recommend the Proform versus the Nordic Track. They tend to be better for short people in my opinion.

One word of warning though.... even though they say these things are good and low impact they caused me some major knee problems. I NEVER had knee problems before I started doing the elliptical everyday last summer. The DR. said it is because of the repetitive motion. Who would ever think? So, if you get one you might want to only do it 2-3 times a week max! I now only do mine 1-2 times a week max because of the knee problems it caused. Also, one of our best aerobic instructors at our club had the same thing happen with the Nordic Track in only 1 month. She ended up selling hers.

But on a positive note... I LOVE it! It is a great workout and is so fun for something different at home. I love getting up early, putting on my headphones and jammin' out in my own little world to my own music!

Good luck!