Elliptical exercise equipment is growing in popularity among athletes who enjoy working out on fitness equipment. In fact, it is the fastest growing piece of fitness equipment. Several factors may be responsible for the increasing numbers who use elliptical trainers.

Why Choose an Elliptical Machine?

One of the major reasons why an athlete might choose to exercise on an elliptical is that this type of machine provides both an upper and lower body workout, all at the same time. Thus, the user gets the heart rate up more quickly, causing more calories to be burned in less time. Elliptical equipment allows for optimal energy expenditure, because the user is working the upper and lower body simultaneously.

Another reason that an elliptical unit may be favored is that it not only provides a good cardiovascular workout, it also tones the body. The upper body action works the back, shoulders, chest, biceps, and triceps, toning the muscles in the upper body region. The lower body action tones the legs, buttocks, hips, and thighs, as well as the abdomen.

An added benefit (and, a great benefit, at that!) of using a trainer with elliptical motion is its ability to build bone density. Thicker bones tend to be healthier, stronger bones. By increasing the bone mass in your body, the onset of osteoporosis may be slowed down immensely or eliminated altogether. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 55% of Americans age 50 and older develop osteoporosis. However, exercise is a natural preventative measure against this bone affliction. The NOF informs that "bone becomes stronger and denser when you place demands on it...Lack of exercise, particularly as you get older, may contribute to lower bone mass or density."

Elliptical training is also low impact. Therefore, risk of injury to your joints or back is so minimal that it virtually does not exist. Studies show that working out on an elliptical also tends to fool your body into thinking that it is working easier than it actually is. Scientists refer to this phenomenon as the "Rate of Perceived Exertion."

Ellipticals by Smooth Fitness™

Smooth Fitness™ offers a fine selection of elliptical machines. Each style is high in quality and is equipped to give you an incredibly smooth, yet efficient workout.

Note: Also see An Elliptical Machine for Shaping Up and Elliptical Training