Sunday, January 6, 2008

Tips On Finding The Best Elliptical Trainer For You

Elliptical trainers are great tools for getting into shape, burning calories and giving your heart a boost. But, as with everything else, you have to find the best elliptical trainer for you. Just like people, they come in all shapes and sizes.

Before you head out with your credit card, you should know what you want first. This will help you decide on the right model for you.

Is The Price Right?

This is an important part of buying your elliptical. They can be pretty expensive. Quite a few of the most recommended ellipticals carry a price tag of over $2,000. On the other hand, you can get one for a couple hundred dollars. What's the difference?

The difference is quality of parts. If you buy a $300 elliptical, it is guaranteed that by your next birthday, you'll have trashed it. Cheap machines are cheap because they cut corners on quality. With ellipticals, you get what you pay for.

If you are a first time elliptical buyer, you may want to start with a low to mid-range model before you take the plunge and spend big bucks on a nicer one. Just remember that the more you pay, the more you get.

Size Matters

Ellipticals aren't small. Before you head out shopping, measure the space where you intend to use your elliptical. When you're shopping, you can look at the sizes of the machines and make sure they're small enough for your exercise room.

On the other hand, you want to make sure it's big enough for you. Height is a major factor in buying an elliptical. Some have shorter frames than others.

It's a sensitive issue, but weight is also important. Every elliptical has a maximum weight that it can support. This is usually something like 250 or 300 pounds. It would be pretty embarrassing if your machine broke down the first time you stepped on it.

Check Out The Frame

If you plan to move your elliptical to different parts of the house, or store it in the garage when you're not using it, you'll want a lighter frame. Some ellipticals are designed to be more portable than others.

But remember, the heavier the frame, the sturdier the machine. If you plan on using it hard, you will definitely want a good, tough frame.

Take It For A Test Ride

You should always try it before you buy. Check out the features, but also see how comfortable and quiet the machine is. If you get a noisy machine, it will start to drive you crazy after a while. An elliptical trainer that's not comfortable is going to cause you trouble, too. If it's not comfy and fun, you won't use it!

These are just a few things to think about before you head out to shop. Have a plan for how you plan to use it, and where you plan to use it. Choosing the best elliptical trainer for you is more than just a matter of picking a good brand.