How do I choose the right elliptical?

  • Posted on
How do I choose the right elliptical?

An elliptical or cross trainer is an all-round fitness device that helps you get stronger, keeps you fit and helps you lose weight. It is easy to use and you train around eighty percent of your muscles with a cross trainer. That pretty much summarizes the main reason to buy a cross trainer! To help you with that, we have listed what you need to take into account in order to choose the right cross trainer.

First, we will elaborate on the two most important factors: drive and stride length.
 

2. Stride length
2. Stride length
The stride length is the distance between the two pedals when they are farthest apart. A short stride length gives a kind of step movement. A longer stride length mimics more of a running movement.

The stride length also influences the comfort of your workout. If the stride length is too short, it will feel like you are walking with small steps. If the length is too far, it will feel like the steps you are taking are too big and that can overload your muscles. The correct stride length depends on your height. The taller you are, the greater the stride length. Overall, we can maintain the following standards, but of course it also depends on your physique and personal preference.

Shorter than 175 cm: 30 or 40 centimeter stride length
Taller than 175 cm: 40 or 50 centimeter stride length

We have ellipticals with the following stride lengths:
- 30 centimeter / 13 inch
- 40 centimeter / 16 inch
- 50 centimeter / 19 inch



Of course, there are even more things to look out for when choosing a cross trainer.
 

3. Number of programs / resistance levels

Do you want a different workout every day or do you like to challenge yourself? Then it's best to opt for a cross trainer with more programs and resistance levels.

 

4. Brake system

You can choose between an electromagnetic braking system (EMS) and manual permanent magnet (PMS). With EMS, the resistance is determined by the attractive force that is applied on the flywheel. This force is controlled by passing more or less current through the magnets. You choose the resistance on the display, after which the magnets come to the correct position via induction. Thus, EMS does not use an engine or moving/mechanical parts. With manual PMS, the magnet moves along with the rotary knob, which allows you to choose the resistance. Finally, with a PMS servo motor, you choose the resistance on the display, after which the servo motor sets the magnets in motion.

 

5. Flywheel weight

Do you want more resistance? Then choose a cross trainer with a heavier flywheel. A heavier flywheel offers more opportunities for extra training levels. If you only want a few training levels, a lighter flywheel will also be suitable.

 

6. Weight of the elliptical

In general, the more possibilities (resistance levels, number of programs and so on), the heavier and firmer the cross trainer.

 

7. Maximum user weight

It is important to pay attention to the maximum user weight associated with the safe use of a cross trainer. The specifications of a cross trainer show the maximum user weight.

 

8. Ergometer

Would you like to know how well you train and what your progress is? An ergometer can help you achieve the goal of your workout. By entering your data such as height and weight, you can train very accurately on wattage and see what your calorie consumption is.

 

9. Heart rate monitor

All of our cross trainers have a heart rate monitor in the handles. Do you want to train more accurately on heart rate? Then choose an analog connection or bluetooth connection in combination with a heart rate band.

 

10. Extras

If you're a fanatic sportsperson, some 'extra bonusses' with your cross trainer might come in handy, such as a bottle holder, a tablet holder and bluetooth to be able to train with apps like Tunturi Routes.

 

 

After reading this blog, do you know exactly which cross trainer suits you best? We have a wide range of ellipticals!

 

Blogs

The benefits of heat and cold therapy Stiff, sore or tired muscles, a bruise or a sprained ankle. We instinctively often reach for heat or cold treatment, respectively. A warming gel on the muscles, a cold compress on the sprain; it reduces pain and swelling. Discover Next
Relaxing with an acupressure mat Tense shoulders, a stiff neck, and lower back pain. These are all signs that your body needs to relax. If you don't relax on time and keep holding onto stress and tension in your body, there is a good chance that your discomfort will turn into chronic complaints. This can manifest itself in poor sleep, injuries throughout the body, and even chronic pain. Discover Next
The benefits of the hula hoop Hula hooping is an underrated sport. Most people immediately think of the schoolyard or gym class at school, but hula hooping is a complete workout for your body and mind. Especially your core, balance and endurance benefit greatly from a frequent hula hoop session. So dust off that hoop or buy a fitness hoop and start moving those hips! Discover Next
What are the benefits of heart rate training? Are you an enthusiastic athlete and do you want to optimise your workouts? Then you cannot avoid using a heart rate monitor. By doing heart rate training, you can keep a close eye on the intensity of your workout. With this, you don't train too lightly, but you also don't go over your limit by working out too intensively. Discover Next
The difference between an aqua boxing bag and a regular boxing bag Working out with a boxing bag is gaining popularity. That is logical because you have all the advantages of (martial arts) training without the disadvantages. You throw punches and kicks without having to absorb them yourself. In addition, you don't need a sparring partner when using a boxing bag (also known as a punching bag), and you're less likely to get injured. Working out with a boxing bag is effective and has many benefits. Discover Next
All articles