Using an elliptical machine guarantees a great workout, and one that is also great for your joints.
Elliptical machines mimic the motion of walking or jogging, only without the jarring impact those other activities can bring to your joints. They are a must-have for anyone trying to preserve the health of their entire body; they allow you to exercise without letting gravity get in the way.
When you jog or run, you are forced to make a choice between effective calorie burn and your joint’s health. These exercises are great for weight loss and cardiovascular health, but are not so beneficial for the long-term functioning of your joints. Knees, in particular, are punished by high-impact activity.
A number of problems can result from excessive and continual impact to your joints. Cartilage depletion and shin splints, for instance, can be extremely painful and produce long-lasting effects.
The posterior peroneal tendon becomes inflamed and pain to the leg, below the knee, occurs. This may start as a dull pain, but can increase to a level that can force you to cease exercise and daily functioning altogether.
Posterior peroneal tendon pain, shin splints, cartilage depletion, and other problems are obviously exacerbated by running and jogging. Your body’s weight, combined with gravity, causes the impact that damages joints, even when done on the softer surface of a treadmill.
Joint health is important, especially as we age.
With life expectancy continually increasing well into the 60?s, 70?s and 80?s, it is vital that we protect our joints so that they will function well into later years of life.
How does one remain physically fit and healthy, then?
Elliptical machines are the one of the best ways to exercise without placing excessive stress on joints, second only to exercising in water.
By using an elliptical machine, you get the same great benefits as you would from walking or jogging: calorie burn, weight loss, cardiovascular health, and a good, healthy sweat. At the same time, you are taking stress off your joints. This will prevent injury, pain, and long-term joint issues.
You will also find that using an elliptical machine feels much easier due to the fluid, natural movement it encourages. And in contrast with a treadmill, you are also working your upper body. You can get a superior workout without damaging your body or straining your joints.
People love treadmills because of the convenience and versatility. Especially popular – and effective for workouts – is the incline feature. You can get this option, as well as both forward and reverse motions, with an elliptical machine.
Reversing your stride works different muscle groups. It would be difficult – not to mention unsafe – to run backwards on a trail or treadmill. With an elliptical machine, however, you can easily and safely reverse direction.
When you exercise, you want the benefits of running or jogging, without the damaging impact. An elliptical machine gives you the best of both worlds and will keep your body and joints functioning properly.
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