Treadmills are often used by runners when the weather doesn't permit them to run outside. Treadmills are also common in gyms. However, because treadmills don't work the the upper body, they do not give a complete workout.
There have been some new developments made in the exercising industry. One such new development is a machine that is called an elliptical machine. These new types of machines work much better that a regular treadmill. Treadmills do not help people with arthritis except in the lower joints; an elliptical machine uses peoples own body movements to power them, this includes the upper joints and arms as well. For a picture of these new elliptical machines all you need to do is search the internet.
Elliptical machines require both pulling and pushing motions from the exerciser. This works the biceps and the back at the bottom and also the pulling motion works the upper extremities; so the chest, shoulders and the triceps are strengthened at the same time as the lower part of the body to tone a person's entire body. This pushing and pulling of the Ellipticals lowers the impact and helps to reduce the chance of stress injuries much more than the treadmills do.
There are several different types of ellipticals on the market right now. The ProForm 20.0 Cross Trainer is one of the most popular machines. This inexpensive elliptical machine offers a clear view backlit console, oversized gel grip pedals, an EKG monitor, it has an 18" stride length, and a workout fan; included are a sound systems with two speakers, an iPod port, and the ability to play fitness games. You get 9 cross trainer workouts and 3 personal trainer workouts, plus 2 heart rate workout programs.
There is even a Space Saver elliptical machine, the ProForm Space Saver 850, that will allow you to break it down and store it out of the way when you are not exercising. This is great if you do not have very much room to keep it out. It also comes with a workout fan, oversized pedals, a blue backlit display, and eight programs to help you achieve the best workout routine. This elliptical machine is even less expensive than the one mentioned above.
The Reebok RL1500 can handle up a user up to 350 pounds. Included are a longer-than-typical stride length, a contact heart rate monitor, and over-sized pedals. It also comes with fifteen workout programs.
If any one ever wanted to get great exercises and exercising programs the ellipticals are better than treadmills by comparison.
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Robert Braun is Vice President of Sales for Treadmill-World.com. He uses both a treadmill and elliptical machine.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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