Selecting A Portable Elliptical Trainer

Answer 1

Basic Elliptical Machine Routine

When looking for an elliptical trainer that is not going to be a permanent fixture in a home, or when searching for a training machine that can be easily carried between the home and office, a portable elliptical trainer might be the solution. The portable versions of the larger fixed elliptical trainers are designed to either be easily moved around a room, or to be carried to different locations as needed. The machines offer some of the same basic functions as a full sized elliptical trainer, although they might not be as durable or come with some of the more complex features like a digital control panel or cross-training handles.

One way that elliptical trainers are formed into portable machines is with the addition of casters to the bottom of the unit. These small wheels allow the machine to be rolled from one location to another. One sacrifice that has to be made in order for the casters to work effectively is that the overall weight must be reduced so the wheels do not break. In most cases, the wheels can be locked when the machine is going to be used. Some models have casters that can be removed, however, meaning that the mobility of the machine is balanced by an increase in the amount of time it takes to stabilize and prepare the trainer for use.

Some versions of portable elliptical trainers that are very popular are units that have hinged or detachable segments. These units are generally very functional, but do not come with a wide array of features since each piece must be isolated so it can be folded or disassembled. This allows the trainer to be carried in light pieces or stored and transported in a flat box. Like trainers that have casters, often the portability is tempered by the amount of time required to reassemble or unfold the machine.

A truly portable elliptical trainer design removes almost all of the unnecessary components of the trainer. These portable models consist of only a small base that has two pedals on the top. This small cylinder takes up very little space, but requires the user to balance without the assistance of handles. These trainers can be easily carried, stored, or shipped to any location and require very little setup. These portable elliptical trainers are usually very limited in the amount of resistance that is provided, however.