There are many elliptical machines out there for people with weak back's. One that seems to be top rated is the Livestrong machine and one to avoid is the diamondback as it doesn't have the best tension setting.
I believe the Elliptical machine would be good when training for long distance running. The Elliptical machine offers the same benefits as running. Also, it is less stressful on your knees, hips and back. The Elliptical machine can also build up your stamina and you can run at a steady pace.
The life fitness elliptical machine is good for use in the home as long as you have enought space at your house.
A good place would be on Amazon.com/.ca. They offer free shipping for items higher then 25$, and an elliptical machine is often more than that. Good luck!
Elliptical machines are very effective in helping with weight loss and all over body toning. You can get a good deal on elliptical machine on eBay or Amazon.
There are some negatives to an elliptical exercise machine like the potential for injury. With a good exercise regime and proper safety precautions there should be very little risk involved with an elliptical exercise machine.
According to Lance Armstrong, you get what you pay for when purchasing elliptical machines. I think a visit to his website would provide the information you need about purchasing elliptical machines: www.livestrong.com/.../380796-what-are-the-best-elliptical-machine
Prices for an elliptical machine can range from a couple hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars. Research the best types of machines and compare prices from those, this can easily be done online. Ebay also has really great used ones that you can get for a fraction of the cost.
There are a lot of good elliptical machine available on the market place. They vary in features that they offer which affects the price so I would decide what feature are important to you before you commit to one.
I do a mile in 3 1/2 minutes.
The sole elliptical machine combines both natural human movement and exercise to simulate the pattern your foot travels. The Sole E35 cross trainer has received a "Best Buy" award for two consecutive years.
A incline/decline model treadmill is a nice replacement for an elliptical machine. The difference in motion may make a better workout. Horizon is a good place to start.
Although many may think that purchasing a used elliptical trainer is a good idea, dangers of importance may be seen when a person is using the machine. The parts of the machine have an expectancy and it is near impossible to know how long the person before used the machine for working out.