ELLIPTICALS

Elliptical fitness crosstraining is one of the newest and most popular ways to exercise in health clubs today. In fact, it has taken the fitness industry by storm since the category was first introduced in 1995. In the year 2000, there were 6.2 million Americans aged six and over who exercised on an elliptical motion trainer. This represents an increase of 160% over the 2.4 million recorded in 1997, and marks the activity as the fastest-growing fitness trend. Because it has occurred in the face of a still-robust treadmill market, the growth of this relatively new hybrid cardiovascular equipment is particularly noteworthy.

It's not just for health clubs anymore. This elliptical crosstraining revolution is also an easy, fun way to get in shape right in your own home. Elliptical trainers -- which involve an oval or elliptical-shaped pedaling motion -- have been described as a cross between a nordic ski machine and stair-climber. Among other benefits, the success of this "no-impact" activity has been attributed to its particular friendliness toward exercisers with knee problems.

Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining is a popular kind of aerobic exercise that combines the natural stride of a treadmill with the simplicity of a climber. On an Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer, you stand comfortably in an upright position while holding onto the machine's handrails and striding in either a forward or reverse motion.

Here are the guidelines for selecting your elliptical crosstrainer:

• Make sure the equipment is properly fitted to your size and movement range
  
  
• When in use, the machine should be very sturdy and neither move nor have the tendency to tip over
  
  
• Be sure the manufacturer is reputable and reliable and provides a good warranty
  
  
• Is the machine easy to maintain?
  
  
• Is the space you plan on putting it, large enough to accommodate the unit?
  
  
• Are there local technicians to service your equipment?
  
  
• How often does it need to be serviced?
  
  
• Is the noise level acceptable?
  
  
• Does the control panel offer the information that is important for your needs? (time, distance, resistance level, heart rate, etc.)
  
  
• If the machine provides upper body handles, are they sturdy, easy to reach, in a comfortable range of motion and position for you?

The staff at a specialty fitness equipment store can help you determine which equipment is best for your home by helping you consider your goals and objectives, the size of your exercise room, user volume and preference, equipment durability, safety goals, maintenance requirements and your budget.