This post is sponsored by Hire Fitness.
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Deciding to kick start a healthy new lifestyle means combining eating the right foods and exercising.
There are many ways to exercise and it’s important to choose a program which complements your current level of fitness and stamina, counterbalances any mobility issues and is the kind of work out you will enjoy.
One piece of exercise equipment which is popular with many is the elliptical cross trainer – also known simply a cross trainer. It’s popular for a number of good reasons, so check out these top 5 benefits to discover why you should consider buying one or hiring one from http://www.hire-fitness.ie.
1. Low Impact
When using a cross trainer, your feet never leave the pedals. This means there’s little impact to the joints and so it’s especially kind to those who want to exercise but are concerned about the pounding effect of some exercise equipment to the ankles and knees. Whilst it is kind to the body, it still delivers the same effect as a weight-bearing workout and the result is that you can improve bone density in the lower body and spine without the shock to the limbs.
As well as being low impact overall, a cross trainer is great for those who want a gentle workout as you can pedal at a slow and calm rate. This way you know you’re getting the benefit but not feeling too out of breath. When you want to work a little harder, just pedal faster and then drop back to a level you’re comfortable with as a cool-down.
2. Great For Arms
Many cross trainers have handlebars which move in a smooth motion as you use your legs. As you push and pull – again without harsh impact on the body, you really get a full workout. The forward and reverse actions aren’t only targeting the arms but also the chest, back and shoulders.
3. Helps Weight Loss
If part of your goal is to lose weight, then a cross trainer is certainly going to be an important part of your plan. They burn an incredible amount of energy when used in a full-on workout; up to an impressive 800 calories per hour depending on your weight. A great way to heighten the effect is to build up to an hour on the cross trainer and incorporate increased resistance on the lower body as well as using the handles for the arms and chest. As a single piece of exercise equipment, a cross trainer really offers the opportunity for an intense workout but without the risk of injury that can take place in higher impact exercise routines.
4. Safe To Use
If you’re new to exercise you may be concerned about the safety aspect. Don’t worry though as a cross trainer is very safe. It only moves when you stand on it and power the pedals and it stops as soon as you do. If you’re using one at a gym, ask an instructor for a demonstration before you first use it so you really understand the positive benefits it can give.
5. Great To Combine As A Full Exercise Workout
A cross trainer will simulate the kind of movement hiking and skiing offers but without the high impact jolt on the body. To add other aspects to your program such as walking for example, hire a treadmill which will give you a short or long term addition to your fitness goals. As both are great cardio workout options they make for a satisfying time when exercising at home and it won’t be long before you see great results.