A type of
exercise machine designed for an
aerobic workout, an elliptical trainer is a cross between a
bicycle and a
treadmill. An elliptical trainer has two small
platforms, where the user places their feet, much like a
bicycle, except that instead of sitting, the user stands. The
platforms are joined to the machine so that they can move in an
elliptical pattern (hence the name) which mimics
jogging, much like a
treadmill. However, elliptical trainers are considered to be easier on the knees than a
treadmill; since the feet never leave the
platforms, there is no
stress on the knees from feet landing, as there is in
jogging.
Most elliptical trainers have
settings that can make movement more difficult (to increase the
intensity of the
workout), or mimic an
incline (to
work different
leg muscles). Some elliptical trainers have vertical
rods that can be gripped at
chest height and moved like
cross country skiing, to provide some arm movement.