Elliptical

If you're looking for the perfect home training equipment that combines the benefits of rowing machines, treadmills, steppers, and exercise bikes, then an elliptical may be just what you need. The elliptical is a versatile fitness machine that allows you to effectively work all muscle groups. Whether you want to slim down, improve your physique or strengthen the muscles responsible for proper body posture, an elliptical will fulfill your expectations.

With this device, you can enjoy a full body workout in the comfort of your home, saving time and money at the gym. Ellipticals are gentle on the joints, which makes them an excellent choice for people of all fitness levels. Whether you're just starting out with cardio or you're a seasoned athlete, an elliptical can be an invaluable tool to help you achieve your training goals.

Before you make your choice and add an elliptical to your home gym, it's necessary to learn about the different models of ellipticals on the market and choose the one that best meets your needs.

Elliptical Machines - Which Muscles Are Worked?
Exercises on an elliptical machine primarily work the muscles of the lower part of the body, especially the leg muscles. When working out on an elliptical machine, the following people train at the highest intensity:

Quadriceps.
gluteal muscles.
The iliopsoas muscles.
Calf muscles.
But that's not all. Exercising on the elliptical machine also positively affects the muscles of the upper body. During training, the following are covered:

The deltoid muscles.
Biceps of the arms.
Chest muscles.
Abdominal muscles.
To summarize, training on an elliptical machine is versatile and involves many muscle groups, which makes it an excellent piece of equipment for working the entire body. Regular activity on the elliptical can help you improve your health, burn calories, and strengthen the muscles in your legs and upper body. Additionally, training on an elliptical machine can lead to improved body shape and proper body posture due to the activation of the core muscles (also known as stabilizing muscles). Properly performed training on an elliptical machine strengthens the musculature and makes it more flexible.

Types of elliptical machines
Only after purchasing the right machine for our needs can we start training on an elliptical . There are three main types of elliptical machines on the fitness equipment market:

Mechanical.
Magnetic.
Electromagnetic.
Mechanical elliptical trainers
Mechanical elliptical machines are a type of fitness equipment that is now considered obsolete. They have a rather awkward design and do not allow for effective training. In addition, mechanical ellipticals often malfunction and are noisy when in use. Their low price is undoubtedly tempting, but if we are considering equipment that can be used intensively for many years, it is better to choose another type of elliptical trainer, the magnetic elliptical trainer.

Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
The system on which the magnetic elliptical trainer is based consists of magnets placed near the flywheel. The user can use a knob to adjust the resistance by changing the distance between the magnet and the flywheel, depending on their preference and level of progress. The principle of operation is simple: the closer the magnet is to the wheel, the greater the resistance. Magnetic elliptical trainers feature quiet operation and low friction, which makes training on this type of machine smooth and gentle on the joints.

Electromagnetic Elliptical Machines
Electromagnetic elliptical trainers have a very similar mechanism of operation, but this type of home elliptical trainer requires a power connection. Why? Well, the resistance is no longer adjusted using knobs located on the column like on magnetic elliptical trainers, but through the training computer. Electronic resistance adjustments offer greater convenience and a wider range of adjustment. The standard resistance adjustment range for magnetic trainers is 8 degrees, while some electromagnetic models have a resistance adjustment range of 1 to 32 degrees. For this reason, electromagnetic elliptical trainers are recommended for those who focus on intensive and advanced training.

Also worth mentioning are specialized fitness machines that combine the functions of various machines. An example of such a machine is the Mountaineer elliptical trainer - an innovative combination of an elliptical trainer and a stepper. Exercises performed on this type of equipment mimic the movements we make when climbing stairs. The legs are more actively engaged, especially the quadriceps.

Regardless of the type of elliptical we choose, there are a few key parameters we must focus on before making a final decision. Above, we discussed the type of elliptical from the point of view of the resistance system. In this case, the position of the flywheel is also important. We can find both front drive and rear drive elliptical cross trainers in the market. Elliptical trainers with flywheels in the front are slightly heavier, but are designed to bring the feet closer together for a more natural stride and less stress on the knees. Ellipticals with rear flywheels are more compact, which makes them a better fit for home gym equipment.

The weight of the flywheel is also important when choosing a home elliptical. A heavy flywheel ensures a smooth workout. In turn, safety during exercise is influenced by the size of the equipment, weight, maximum load capacity and heart rate sensors (with the help of which we can continuously obtain heart rate measurements).

Before purchasing the equipment, check the number of training programs as well as the adjustment possibilities of the equipment. Ellipticals with adjustable platform height are available on the market. These types of add-ons affect the quality and comfort of training, thus increasing our motivation to perform regular training.

Effectiveness of elliptical training
The obvious effects of training on an elliptical machine will be visible in the early stages, i.e. after only a few weeks of regular exercise. This applies mainly to beginners, whose performance improves significantly, their lower body muscles become stronger and their posture improves. However, the effects may become less pronounced over time, as the elliptical is primarily used for aerobic training. We won't use it to build muscle (which is what strength training, such as free weights, is all about), but we will significantly improve our health, burn calories, lose excess weight and improve our overall health. In terms of fat burning, this will help us if we are in a proper calorie deficit and increase our overall physical activity. It is important not to get discouraged by a lack of excellence and continue to train because years of health are built through regularity.

The perfect home elliptical
Home fitness equipment should first of all be adapted to the conditions in which it will be used. If our apartment is small or we care about mobility, we should choose equipment that is foldable or equipped with transportation rollers. For apartments in multi-family buildings and houses with little space, it is worth considering the purchase of a magnetic elliptical trainer. It works exceptionally quietly and will not disturb neighbors or other family members.

If you're looking for fitness equipment that fits your home gym and meets your expectations, be sure to check out the wide range of products available at the Hop-Sport store. Here you will find modern magnetic or electromagnetic elliptical trainers with multifunctional computers, efficient braking systems, safety non-slip pedals and heart rate sensors.Hop-Sport elliptical trainers are suitable for people who are just starting out with aerobic exercise as well as for professional athletes.

Choose a multifunctional training device that combines the features of fitness equipment such as steppers, treadmills and stationary bikes. Order your model today and enjoy free shipping!

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)