The elliptical machine and variations of it are easily the most used pieces of cardiovascular equipment in the gym for several reasons.First and foremost, it’s much easier on the body.If you have hip, back, or knee problems, this should be the machine of choice.It’s very low impact, due to the fact that you’re not picking up and placing down your foot, and you stay in a fixed track.Many times if you have any arthritic conditions or joint problems, the pounding of a treadmill can be contraindicated to the body.

Secondly, it has a wide variety of programming options.You can do a hill, interval, mileage, timed course, or even design your own program.On many machines the height of the ramp can be adjusted as well.The higher the angle, the more you hit glutes, the lower the angle, the more you hit your quads.It also provides some variety in your workout.

Thirdly, most elliptical machines now incorporate the arms.In this type of setup there are two moving levers that encourage you to use your arms during the exercise.As a result, the more of your body you’re moving, the more energy you’re burning, therefore more calories are melting away.

And lastly, it is a welcomed alternative to the repetitive treadmills and bikes that seem to dominate most gym floors.The elliptical is easy to use – anyone can do it.Just throw a towel over the readout, keep your eyes on the screen in front of you, and work up a sweat.