What is an Elliptical Trainer, and How Do They Improve Health

Whether you regularly use an elliptical trainer at your local gym or are finally getting around to researching that peculiar-looking machine you’ve seen in social media workout videos, you’re in the right place to learn about everything to do with elliptical trainers. 

Invented in the 1990s, the elliptical trainer was the first piece of gym equipment created that allowed the foot to roll from heel to toe, mimicking the foot's natural movement when running. From there, the popularity of elliptical trainers has skyrocketed, with people worldwide opting to work out using this machine. So, why is that? In this article, we will explore what elliptical trainers do, what muscles they target, the benefits of an elliptical trainer and if they are better on your body than other cardio machines.

First of all, what is an elliptical trainer? An elliptical trainer is a stationary exercise machine that can simulate a number of low-impact cardio exercises, such as walking, running and stair climbing. And what does an elliptical trainer do? Simply put, the elliptical trainer provides the user with a full-body workout. The machine comprises two-foot pedals and two handlebars that move in sync. Using an elliptical trainer is a good idea for those with sore joints or other injuries looking for a low-impact cardio workout.

So we already mentioned that elliptical trainers target both the upper and lower body, providing users with a full-body workout. But what about specific muscle groups? What is an elliptical trainer good for when it comes to targeted muscles? The primary muscles targeted can be broken down into lower-body and upper-body categories.

Lower body:

• Quadriceps

• Hamstrings

• Glutes

• Calves

Upper body:

• Latissimus dorsi (these are the large muscles on either side of our back)

• Pectoralis major

• Deltoids

• Biceps

• Triceps 

Are elliptical trainers effective as a whole-body workout? Yes, they are. But remember, it’s always important to add variation to your exercise regime, so change it up occasionally and add some weights and other exercises.

There are an array of benefits of an elliptical trainer, including:

• Low noise levels — elliptical trainers are a relatively quiet exercise machine, making them an appropriate choice for working out in a shared space.

• Low-impact workout — elliptical trainers are great for those with injuries, providing users with a low-impact workout.

• Full-body workout — elliptical trainers allow users to work out their whole body with one easy-to-use machine.

• Heart health — cardio exercises are great for cardiovascular health, so using an elliptical trainer can contribute to improved heart health.

• Customisable — most elliptical trainers allow users to customise their workout with different levels of resistance, making sure every user can find their perfect workout.

• Helps improve balance — an elliptical trainer can also assist users in improving their balance and coordination over time.

Q: Are elliptical trainers effective for daily cardio?

Yes, using an elliptical trainer is an effective choice for your daily cardio workouts. Elliptical trainers provide low-impact, full-body workouts that help users to improve cardiovascular fitness, build endurance and burn calories.

Q: How often should I be using an elliptical trainer? 

How often you should be using your elliptical trainer depends on your current fitness levels, the goals you have set for your fitness, and what your standard exercise routine already looks like. Beginners should start with 2 to 3 sessions a week, with sessions lasting between 20 to 30 minutes. Intermediate users should aim for 3 to 5 sessions a week, with sessions lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. Finally, advanced users can aim for 5 to 7 sessions a week, with their sessions lasting 45 to 60 minutes.