Precor Elliptical Trainer: What a Great Invention
Written: Apr 07 '00 (Updated Feb 15 '02)
|
Product Rating:
|
|
|
Pros: A safe, smooth, cardiovascular workout
Cons: Doesn't measure heart rate.
The Bottom Line: In my opinions, this offers a terrific workout and is easy on your body.
|
|
|
| jo.com's Full Review: Precor EFX546 |
Revised August 17, 2000
As a personal trainer I have worked in two gyms. Personally I have been a member of over 6 gyms and have visited many while away from home. The elliptical machine is terrific because it eliminates the pounding your body takes while running.
I used to run until I herniated a disc. The doctor told me running was not worth it and to stop. I did. If you are a runner and have had no problems, by all means continue. If you run (no pun intended) into health problems (sore knees, bad back, continuous shin splints) you may want to consider alternative cardiovascular equipment.
That is what I did but it was before elliptical machines came on the market so I walked on the treadmill. Treadmills can be good workout but anything done over and over again gets boring. In fact, what is called interval training seems to work the best. That involves switching cardio workouts regularly as well as changing your weight training program if you weight train.
Then came elliptical machines. I was in heaven. Not only could I get a different aerobic experience, I got a better cardiovascular workout, in my opinion. I am not a person who sweats a lot, but on this machine I always have a towel with me.
The Precor machine I am reviewing has a picture of a person and shows what body part is being used as levels are changed. I adjust the level of the height of the machine to work different parts of my body. For example at the highest level you will be working your gluteal muscles (that's your butt) primarily.
You can lower it and work all four of the options this machine gives you: calf, hamstring, quadriceps (thighs) and gluteals. I can also adjust the resistance on this machine. One being very easy, 12 being very difficult. I usually vary my workout between 1-8 switching resistance every few minutes.
This machine has a place for water bottles and for a magazine to rest. I can also put my discman on it without fear of it falling off.
The Precor can be set to show calories expended; calories per minute; how much time you want to be on the machine; time you have been on the machine; time you have left; how far you have gone; how many steps you have taken and the resistance you are working at.
I don't like to use the elliptical machines which have handles with which you move your arms. Some feel it is a good arm workout but I think all it does is make your lower body work less and tire your upper body. In fact you can virtually move you feet with your arms if you want to. In my opinion, this type isn't a very effective cardiovascular workout. If you just ignore the handles they feel like they are going to hit your face!
I am definitely a Precor fan and was very excited that the new gym I joined almost a year ago had enough of them for everyone. If you belong to a gym and have stayed away from this one, ask a trainer how to use it. I have a feeling you will love it as much as I do and if not, you haven't lost anything except some sweat and a little time!
Recommended:
Yes
|
|
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.