What is a cross training workout?
Understanding Elliptical Cross Trainers
image courtesy of ellipticalequipment.org
Many individuals routinely undergo a cross training workout whether simply for fitness purposes or as part of an athlete’s regular training program. Where before only traditional exercise programs are available for enthusiasts, there are now newer alternatives such as the elliptical cross trainer. What, exactly, is an elliptical cross trainer? This is a piece of exercise equipment that is similar to a regular treadmill, but which allows you to perform cardiovascular exercises with very little impact.
The machine itself looks like a cross between a treadmill, a stationary bike and a stair master. The fact that it involves minimal impact makes it ideal for the elderly or people with health risks because it helps you avoid most exercise-related injuries. It also protects your joints from too much pressure or stress. Another advantage of the elliptical exercise machine is that it can be adjusted to different intensity levels and may be used either moving forward or backwards. You can even adjust the resistance bands to simulate walking over hills or other obstacles.
Many people believe that an elliptical workout is far superior to the traditional treadmill because it works multiple muscles simultaneously. This belief is based largely on the premise that the muscle groups will burn fat a lot more quickly given the same amount of time that you normally spend on a treadmill. For example, if the same amount of fats is burned in ten minutes of a treadmill workout as that in five minutes on an elliptical machine then you burn twice as much fat on the elliptical than on the treadmill if both exercises last for 30 minutes.
The major disadvantages of the elliptical workout machine are the facts that it is a bit more expensive than a treadmill and breaks down more easily. Repair can also be quite expensive. But as they become more popular and commonly used, manufacturers are also looking for ways to make it more cost-effective.