Elliptical-The Perfect Machine

Well I've found it! Finally a machine that allows one to get a great, low impact workout for the whole body, while spending less time in the gym, or better yet, in the privacy of your own home. Elliptical machines offer just such a workout. Ellipticals are ideal for people who want a low- impact indoor exercise, what to vary their program, who are bored with their usual routine, who want a cardiovascular and full-body workout simultaneously, and who want to burn lots of calories in the shortest amount of time.

Originally a spin off of the 1980's cross country machine, this machine replaces antiquated treadmills, cross-country ski machines, rowing machines and steppers. Typically these machines claim one can achieve a complete workout in 20 to 30 minutes, while burning an amazing 720 calories per hour. Of course these statistics are dependant on several variables: length of workout duration, interval training, elliptical tension settings, muscle to fat ratio, and state of cardiovascular system, weight, sex, and upper body usage.

There are several advantages to choosing an elliptical machine for your workout needs. They give a total body workout in about 30 minutes a day. They are great for all levels and ages, and many machines allow one to program the workout intensity level, others have a tension control to accomplish the same thing. In the gym, it gives you another piece of equipment to vary your routine with.

Now for the disadvantages, of course you knew there would be some. It may be easy to overdo your workout on an elliptical machine. Like all exercise, it is important to warm-up, stretch and cool down when exercising. Be sure to bring your heart levels up to, but not over, what is recommended by your physician.

Generally speaking, with an average 30 minute workout on an elliptical will burn the following amount of calories

120 pound women - 310 calories

150 pound women- 387 calories

180 pound man - 464 - 550 calories