What to Look for In an Elliptical Machine? (Buying Guide from Experts)

One of the most sought-after home gym equipment for cardio workouts is an elliptical trainer. Whether it’s for cross training or simply for leisure purposes, this fitness equipment is sure to address your every exercise needs. In this article, we will discuss everything that you need to know about an elliptical trainer as well as provide you with a buying guide to make your purchase more meaningful. Incorporate an elliptical machine to your daily routines and experience a full body workout like never before. Make the most out of your cardio workouts by knowing what to look for in an elliptical machine here at Home Gym Australia.

Why Choose an Elliptical Machine?

There are countless pieces of cardio fitness equipment available, each offering different advantages and benefits. While an elliptical cross trainer doesn’t get as much attention as other exercise machines like stationary bikes or treadmills, it continues to gain its name across the fitness scene. With its fast-growing popularity comes numerous variations and models that help keep your full body engaged in an overall workout.

So, what makes an elliptical machine stand out among other cardio equipment? The answer is pretty simple- it is versatile. An elliptical trainer may come in different types and features; all you need to do is choose which one is best suited for your preferences. We have listed below some of the most common variations of an elliptical machine.

Types of Elliptical Machines

There are many ways to categorise an elliptical trainer. Similar to other machinery, an elliptical machine has gone through numerous evolution and revisions to improve its function. However, the most popular characterisation is based on the location of its motor. What separates every model of elliptical machines lies within its drive, making it more dynamic and efficient.

Rear-Drive Elliptical Trainers

As the oldest design made for elliptical trainers, the rear-drive elliptical is considered as its original style. Even with its traditional features, it is still widely used by many gym facilities because of its outright functions that bring an effective full-body workout. The flywheel is located in the machine’s rear end, which provides a stable and smooth range of movement. The drive’s location enables a natural balance to allow longer and more comfortable strides. These elements are important to replicate an actual walking or running activity. If you prefer a stress-free workout without pushing yourself to the limits, you should try out our rear-drive elliptical trainers.

Front-Drive Elliptical Trainers

In contrast with the rear-drive elliptical, a front-drive elliptical trainer has its flywheel located in the machine’s front area. This is a practical structure that places the roller tracks at the back of the machine. It allows a slight hint of a vertical range of motion, closely resembling a stair climber. Aside from that, the structure of a front-drive elliptical trainer is much lower than the other types, making it easier to get into. This is why it is the best option for seasoned gym-goers or those with limited mobility.

Centre-Drive Elliptical Trainer

This type of elliptical trainer is the most advanced and innovative, among others. It has flywheels located in a parallel position on both sides of the pedals. The centre-drive elliptical is similar to a front-drive because of its vertical elliptical motion and similarity with a stair climber. However, the centre drive allows the user to maintain an upright position and prevents them from leaning forward. Aside from its functions, the centre drive offers a much more compact design, making it more popular among home gyms. If you want to enjoy a full-body workout with less strain on your hips and joints, you should try out a centre drive elliptical.

Other Types of Elliptical Machines

Aside from the above types, an elliptical machine can also be classified according to the following:

Standard Elliptical Machines

This is considered as the basic type of an elliptical machine. It mainly focuses on the cardiovascular aspect and targets the lower body area. Regardless of the intensity, a standard elliptical offers a lower impact than others. It has a wide range of resistance levels suitable for users of varying fitness levels.

Elliptical Cross Trainers

If you are into cross-training, you can enjoy the added benefits of an elliptical cross-trainer. You can perform your exercises either on a seated or on a reclined position, for a much more comprehensive workout.

Elliptical Glider

This type of elliptical machine offers the least complex function of all. It does not have any flywheels and can only operate with the help of a swinging glider. The lack of flywheels brings a lower impact and reduce straining across the knees, hips, and joints. It is also more compact than and is ideal for those with limited spaces.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Elliptical Machine

Like any other fitness equipment, it is important to consider buying an elliptical machine in a cautious manner. To get the best choices, one must have enough knowledge about the fitness equipment and be consistent with their preferences. Before you make that purchase, here are the things that you should consider and keep in mind:

Identify what your goals are. Try to list down some of the reasons you are making this purchase and why you opt to get an elliptical machine instead of other cardio equipment. Also, it would not hurt to know the benefits that you could get when using this equipment.

Research beforehand. Take your time to surf and browse the web to find the best type of equipment that suits your preferences and goals. You can also search for top-rated brands and products with the best reviews online. Immerse yourself across various websites and social media pages to see how other users respond to the functionality and practicality of the products.

Find a trusted equipment supplier. Once you’ve known the specific type, model, and design you want to have, the next thing to do is find out where to make your purchase. Here at Home Gym Australia, we offer a wide range of products and services that can surely give you a one-of-a-kind world-class shopping experience.

After-sales services. If you want to take away the hassle of going through different service centres to get your fitness equipment assembled and fixed, look no further. Home Gym Australia is proud to offer you some of the most reliable after-sales services. Many people avoid online purchases in fear of not being able to assemble their equipment properly. However, our online shop provides installation and assembly services as soon as your order arrives at your doorsteps.

Product expertise. Most online shops sell their products outright in the hopes of getting enough sales. To avoid these kinds of sales tactics, it is important to have a chat with the staff and assess their abilities and expertise regarding the necessary product information that you need. Our team at Home Gym Australia is well-educated and underwent the necessary training to assist your every fitness needs.

Top Elliptical Machine Must-Haves

Check out these top elliptical machine features that you should look out for when choosing your fitness equipment.

Adjustable Stride Length and Incline

These are some of the main features that make up a true elliptical cross trainer. Having an adjustable incline and stride length can help you diversify your workouts and focus on different muscle groups. It is a great way to keep up the excitement and motivation throughout your routines. Experts highly recommend this feature because it can take away the boredom and let you reach your peak without even noticing it.

Elliptical Motion

To replicate and simulate an actual cardio workout, you should consider a machine’s elliptical motion. Having a smooth stride eliminates the impact but still provide a motion that will seem like you’re actually walking and running. It gives away a nice flow of movement for backward and forward directions.

Movement Patterns

How does the elliptical machine make you feel? Even with other fitness equipment, it is important to ask if the machine provides a smooth operation. This enables you to remain comfortable throughout your exercise routines and avoid unnecessary impact on your hips and joints.

Resistance Levels

For a wide range of exercise, a great elliptical machine should have a broad resistance capacity. It should also allow easy adjustment so that you can switch between various intensities during your exercises. More advanced types offer electronic adjustment options that offer quick switching that is suitable for interval training.

Forward and Reverse Features

For an added challenge, you can opt to find one with adjustable forward and reverse motion. It adds a variety on your routine and keeps away a repetitive phase. Most ellipticals already have this feature, for safety and functionality purposes.

Machine Noise

Another important aspect when finding the best elliptical trainer is to listen to the equipment’s machinery. You will know that the product’s model and type are well-designed if it does not make any noise even between switching resistance levels.

Additional Features

Elliptical trainers are widely popular and known because of its versatility. If you want to enjoy an overall cardio training experience, it is important to check out some of the additional electronic features that are offered. There is a wide range of interactive features that you can look for, such as a virtual display of your fitness status, heart rate monitors, and the number of calories burned.

Elliptical Machine Programs

With recent innovations and advances in technology, many elliptical machines now have additional features that offer a great deal to its users. Aside from measuring the number of calories burned, some elliptical machines provide interactive features that can keep you engaged and boost your motivation towards reaching your fitness goals.

Heart Rate Monitor

This allows you to monitor your body’s response and help you control your progress. Some people follow a certain range of heart rate. Having an interactive heart rate monitor helps you make sure that you stay within that range and lets you adjust some of your workout variables accordingly.

Preset and Customisable Programs

If you are someone who gets bored easily, having a set of pre-programmed and customisable workout routines will be the best for you. Some elliptical trainers feature workout programs from fitness experts and several routines that you can follow. These are often customisable and can be adjusted according to your specific needs.

Training Courses

Sometimes, we tend to skip and get lazy with our routine because we do not follow a specific training course. Some elliptical machines offer a set of training courses that can keep us motivated to follow through, depending on our desired fitness goals.

Final Tips

Besides having enough knowledge for an elliptical machine’s designs and features, it is also important to check the product for its safety features, maintenance requirements, price, and warranty. One must not solely focus on the technical side when looking for the right kind of an elliptical machine. The most important factor that must be considered is the quality and comfort that it offers.

Elliptical Machines: The Home Gym Experience

You can enjoy an all-out home gym experience at the comfort of your home. With the various features of an elliptical machine, you will surely get the most out of your routines and enjoy the benefits of a full-body workout.

There is no perfect fitness equipment, as nothing is ever perfect. However, you can get the best elliptical machine with the right mindset and preparation. Besides the above buying guide, it is important to prioritise your personal preferences and needs.

If you want to know more, you can visit and browse through our website for additional information. You can also contact us if you need any assistance and expert advice regarding elliptical trainers. Here at Home Gym Australia, we are sure to provide you with only the best products from leading brands and manufacturers. We are your companion towards achieving your fitness goals.

References:

Home Gym Australia is strictly implementing stiff rules and regulations when it comes to its investigative procedures. It has performed well-organised surveys and interviews based on client preference and expert opinions. Home Gym Australia also makes sure that peer reviews and product studies from reputable gym establishments and manufacturers are sourced out without bias and with fair judgment.

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