Buying An Elliptical Trainer For Home? Here's What You Need To Look For
When you're buying an elliptical trainer for home use, there are several factors that you need to take into consideration. We've gathered together some of the essential things that you should consider.
Size
Elliptical trainers come in a wide range of sizes, from compact and fold-up models to treadmill-sized. If you have a small living space, then buying a smaller machine makes sense. However, you want to make sure that the machine isn't too light, or too small, to remain stable. Several smaller machines also have a smaller price tag, and while that is appealing it often means you're sacrificing quality.
Generally speaking, regular-sized ellipticals are more stable, meaning they won't wobble around when you're working out. An elliptical between 5'6" and 7'6" is standard, but if you simply must go smaller, make sure that the manufacturer is reputable, and that you test it before you buy to make sure it keeps steady.
Stride
The next consideration is the stride length. There is a wide range of stride lengths, ranging from about 14" to 22". You want a stride length that feels natural and comfortable to you. It should feel similar to walking or running, and your hips should not have to swing from side to side when you use it.
The rule of thumb is that the taller you are, the larger stride length you will need. If you are sharing the machine with someone of a different height, then look for an elliptical that has self-adjustable stride length that will accommodate different needs.
Pedals
Your final consideration are the foot pedals. They should be about hip width apart for maximum comfort. If they are too narrow or too wide, then you may experience joint strain. Some models allow you to adjust the positioning, which is a great solution when you have more than one person using the machine on a regular basis.
Also, you want to make sure that the pedals have some flexibility, and that you have enough room to comfortably place your feet as you want to. The most comfortable and safe foot pedals are called articulating foot pedals. These actually rise up along with your feet and help keep your hips, knees and ankles aligned properly as you are working out.
Buying an elliptical trainer for home is a great way to get an effective workout. Now that you know what to look for, you have a much better chance of making the right decision, and choosing an elliptical that is both fun and comfortable to use while you get fit!
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