Elliptical trainers primarily engage lower-body musculature, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. The machine also offers varying degrees of upper-body engagement through moving handlebars, working the biceps, triceps, and shoulders. This dual-action workout can contribute to improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance. Furthermore, the low-impact nature of the exercise minimizes stress on joints, making it a suitable option for individuals with pre-existing injuries or those seeking a gentler form of exercise.
The reduced impact compared to activities like running makes elliptical training beneficial for injury prevention and rehabilitation. Its versatility in resistance levels and incline settings allows users to customize workouts to meet specific fitness goals, from gentle recovery sessions to intense calorie-burning intervals. The elliptical machine emerged as a popular fitness tool in the latter half of the 20th century, offering a compelling alternative to traditional high-impact aerobic exercises.