When it comes to the best exercise equipments that will boost your health, the first one to cross your mind will likely be a treadmill. Now while we can never take away from the health-boosting effects that a treadmill has, it would be a disservice for us to not point out that another fitness machine may be exactly what you need to improve your health and longevity. In fact, elliptical trainers are one of the best machines you can use at the gym, and it will be a welcome addition to your home.
Longevity Benefits of Elliptical Trainers
1. It’s a full-body workout
There are a few things in the world of fitness better that a full-body workout. A full body workout helps you burn more calories in less time, build more muscle and properly maximize your workout efforts and this is exactly what you get when using an elliptical trainer.
Elliptical trainers not only help you work out your lower body, such as your lower belly, quadriceps, glutes, and thighs, but they also engage your upper body, which includes the chest, back, triceps, and biceps.
2. Boosts stamina and endurance
Stamina and endurance not only help to reduce fatigue, but having high levels of both will allow you to carry out daily activities without exhausting yourself.
There a few ways that you can build your stamina, one of which includes doing cardio exercises and this can be done by using elliptical trainers. Cardio (aerobic) exercises force your heart and lungs to work harder, and this strengthens them, as well as your muscles, which then boosts your stamina and endurance.
3. Encourages weight loss
As mentioned, using elliptical trainers provides a full-body workout, which increases your calorie burn, and this can encourage weight loss, especially if you7’re burning more calories than you consume.
4. Less stress on your joints
Joint health is incredibly important, especially because healthy joints keep you mobile and also protect your bones. As great as some exercises are, a lot of them can place some strain on your joints, especially if they’re high-impact workouts.
The good news is that elliptical workouts are low-impact, and this means that they don’t place as much strain on your joints as running or jumping might do. Being low impact and gentle on your joints, elliptical exercises are also great for seniors looking to stay fit while dealing with issues like osteoporosis and arthritis.
5. Improves your balance
According to one study, being able to maintain your balance can help to boost your longevity. If you’re struggling with your balance, elliptical trainers can help you in this regard.
Elliptical trainers help you to strengthen your core muscles. They also improve coordination between the limbs and the brain – all of which can improve your balance.
6. Boosts Cardiovascular Health
If there’s one key to longevity, then it’s definitely keeping your heart healthy. One effective way of doing this is by exercising.
An elliptical trainer is a great way to do so as working out on one increases your heart rate and strengthens the heart muscles.
Exercising on elliptical trainers is also a great stress reliever and this can have blood pressure-lowering effects. What’s more, being an aerobic workout, an elliptical trainer workout can also improve blood circulation and improved circulation not only means a healthier heart but also a stronger immune system.
7. It’s versatile
If there’s one thing I am not a fan of, it’s definitely a slow and repetitive workout. Thankfully, elliptical trainers offer a plethora of exercise routines that allow you to switch up your workout.
Which are the best elliptical trainers to use?
There exists a plethora of elliptical trainers. So, if you’re looking to invest in one for your home, then you’ll definitely be spoiled for choice. That said, if you find yourself overwhelmed with all the options out there, we’ve compiled a list of our top 3 elliptical trainers that will be a perfect fit for your home.
1. Cubii JR1 or JR2 Under Desk Elliptical – A smaller and portable version of an elliptical trainer that can fit under your desk and is perfect for a low-impact workout, even when you’re at the office.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Bike – An incredible elliptical machine that not only provides a low-impact cardio workout, but it’s also equipped with 8 levels of magnetic resistance that will help provide you with a full body workout.
3. Stamina Inmotion Elliptical – Another portable elliptical trainer, this machine is lightweight and you can use it sitting, standing, or even pedalling in reverse.
How long should I use an elliptical?
This is entirely dependent on you. The World Health Organization does recommend 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise each week, so you can decide how to factor this into your workout routine.
Takeaway
Including an elliptical trainer in your exercise routine can really give your fitness lifestyle and longevity a much-needed boost. Not only does it provide a great cardio workout, but it also does your joints, stamina, and balance a favor.
