Almost all gyms, health and fitness clubs and even many homes today have already acquired their own elliptical machines. If you are thinking about getting any type of home fitness equipment, seriously consider an elliptical trainer as your best bet. Consumer Reports magazine is one very good place to compare the features and costs of elliptical machines.

Because the elliptical machine is a low or no impact machine it's a perfect choice for people who are suffering from or are recovering from any type of joint problems in the knees, ankles, hips or back. Understand that the higher quality elliptical machines offer a more natural feel and more comfortable stride because they are larger and more robustly constructed. But you can find quality, low cost or even cheap elliptical machines with a little bit of research online.

Always ask for a discount no matter where you end up buying a machine. There are business discounts, professional discounts, health professional discounts, nurse's discounts and senior discounts for example. You can also ask them to throw something in with your purchase. Just ask. It happens all the time.

Selecting an elliptical machine is much more complex and should take some research time before you try one out and buy it or buy it online. So when you go shopping for an elliptical machine, do you want to buy something expensive or do you want a low cost or discounted elliptical machine that is the first question. Many consumer models found in sporting goods and big-box retail stores can only handle users weighing up to 115 kg (250 lbs) and usually cost $1000 (US) or less.

Elliptical machines are proven to provide workouts that are the best for the cardiovascular system. The elliptical trainer uses all of the muscles of the lower leg which is not the case for other types of home fitness equipment. Elliptical trainers have also been proven to offer a lower 'Perceived Rate of Exertion' when working out.

And elliptical exercise equipment combines all the movements and benefits of hiking, cross country skiing, and biking. Another great thing about the elliptical trainer is that you can move at a nice comfortable speed while allowing for the occasional burst of high intensities. There are many good brands of elliptical cross trainers on the market today. Some of the most popular brands include the Precor, Life Fitness, Quantum Fitness and SportsArt Fitness machines.

While using an elliptical machine gives you a no-impact workout, the resistance exercise helps to build bone density and prevent osteoporosis. They help provide healthy bodies by maintaining this healthy bone density. Most machines will come standard with an on-board computer.

Recent studies have shown that because elliptical machines are optimizing energy expenditure, that the average person will burn more calories. And an elliptical workout provides an overall body workout without the strain. Many people look into elliptical machines that store well because they want to use them when they need them and put them away in a closet when they're not using them.

The general estimates of the calories burned with an elliptical trainer are about 387 calories for a 150 pound woman who has done 30 minutes of elliptical exercise. And with elliptical exercise equipment, your legs travel in an elongated circular motion. Most machines are smaller than a treadmill and can be easily moved to clean or to store away when company is coming.

An elliptical machine can provide the same benefits people get with other exercise. Machines will continue to be developed and provide an optimum workout for their users. Many manufacturers have developed these machines and have incorporated today's high technology into them. They are constantly looking for ways to improve them and each year new features appear.