Elliptical trainers help users to stay physically fit and healthy, build endurance and strength, and lose weight, while providing a low-impact aerobic workout that helps to reduce the risk from injuries. The motion of the elliptical trainer simulates the natural movement of running and stepping. Using the elliptical trainer provides a very good cardiovascular workout with only a minimum risk of injury. Good cardiovascular health helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Overall, elliptical trainers provide a good foundation for a regular fitness program.
The leg motions of the elliptical trainer exercise the gluteus maximus (glutes), quadriceps femoris (quads), hamstrings, and calves when the user is standing upright. If the user is bending forward while exercising, then the glutes will gain most of the benefit from the exercise. The arm motions of the elliptical trainer benefit many muscles of the upper body such as the biceps (biceps brachii), triceps (triceps brachii), rear delts (deltoids), lats (latissimus dorsi), traps (trapezius), and pectorals (pectoralis major and minor). However, since the elliptical trainer provides an aerobic workout, the primary muscle that is exercised is the heart.
