Are Elliptical Trainers Effective? - Your FAQs Answered

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is, “Are elliptical trainers effective?” In fact, we are surprised when we continue to get this question because of the amazing popularity of elliptical trainers. The answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

Part of the problem may be that so much attention has been given to the safety and comfort of elliptical trainers (less joint stress, etc.) that the effectiveness of elliptical machines has been ignored.

Why Are Elliptical Trainers Effective?

The reasons that elliptical machines are effective have to do with the exceptional design of the machines. They have been engineered to provide maximum use of all muscle groups with the least amount of joint stress possible.

In doing this, the designers have perfected elliptical trainers that work a variety of muscle groups intensely without the danger of injury.

Elliptical trainers are very effective at burning calories because they use the whole body efficiently and produce an intense expenditure of energy. Because you are usually using both the upper and lower body, you are burning off fat from all areas of the body and can quickly break a sweat without feeling any pain because you are using a machine that puts no stress on the body.

The effectiveness of a workout that you can do longer because you are more comfortable shouldn’t be overlooked – most people use an elliptical trainer for 30-45 minutes, while they report being able to use a treadmill for only about 20 minutes at a time before feeling joint pain or discomfort.

Are Elliptical Trainers Really Effective for Cardiovascular Workouts?

Elliptical trainers provide one of the most effective forms of cardiovascular workouts you can find. They give you a total body workout that will raise your heart rate and increase your stamina with regular use.

Elliptical trainers also come with heart rate monitors so that you can keep track of your progress, and many machines now come with programs specifically designed to give you an effective cardio workout by adjusting the incline, speed and other settings.

By now we’re sure you’ll agree that the answer to the question, “Are elliptical trainers effective?” is easy to judge. When you buy your own elliptical machine, you’ll discover that the workout you get is even more effective that you’d hoped.

Are Ellipticals Help With Weight Loss?

Of course they can.  Anything that gets you moving can assist in helping you lose weight.  When you are training on an elliptical you are burning calories the whole time, and if you ramp up the incline and the resistance, you're burning even more calories.

So they can absolutely be an effective tool for helping you reach your weight loss goals.  And remember, interval training has been shown to be effective for helping your body burn calories long after you get off the machine.  So train hard and train smart, and you can shed a lot of excess weight.