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THE A
ELLIPTICAL WORKOUT
The ever-popular elliptical continues to wow users
funny thing happens each time the gym at Teresa York’s condominium adds a new elliptical machine to the mix.
“The elliptical is my favourite ma-
chine, but once I try the new one I sud- denly can’t stand the old one,” says York, a banking consultant who lives in Toronto. “The new one always feels smoother and looks nicer. Even though I love our current elliptical, I’m sure I’ll love the next one even more.” York’s enthusiasm doesn’t surprise
Dave Burton, the Western Canada commercial sales rep for Fitness Depot in Calgary. “It’s like getting a new car,” says Burton. “The new ellipticals al- ways feel great because every year the features, programs and comfort are all improved from the ground up.” While some of the classic pieces of
cardio equipment—such as the tread- mill, rowing machine and bike—have been almost perfected after decades of refining and fine tuning, each new and improved edition of the elliptical, the
36 Fitness Business Canada May/June 2015
relative newcomer, excites users with its significant upgrades. According to Burton, big improve-
ments to the latest models include a less bulky and less intimidating ap- pearance and more versatility. “Some new machines are sleeker and 1½ –2 feet shorter,” he says. “And with some of the higher end models, you can now hit a button to increase the incline and change the angle of striding to emu- late stepping and running.” Sara Zajac, a personal trainer at
Fitwell’s For Women in Coquitlam, B.C. finds that the smooth gliding action of the elliptical makes it a popular piece with many of her clients. “Some older people’s joints don’t appreciate the im- pact of even standard walking,” says Zajac. “They tell me that it feels good to be doing weight bearing activity but without the jarring of walking or running.” “The elliptical also offers users a
feeling of exercise success. According to Zakac, “Even though it can look daunting, it's really quick to master.”
Tips for First-timers
The beauty of the elliptical is that even beginners can just get on and go, says personal trainer Sara Zajac. But it is always wise to provide new exercisers and those at a lower fitness level with getting-started tips. Help create a successful first experience for clients with these suggestions from Zajac.
1. Hold onto the stationary handles
when entering the machine since the pedals may move. 2. Place your feet at the front of the
foot pads so your feet don’t shiſt dur- ing the workout. 3. If there is an elevation option, ad-
just it to a flat level. 4. Experiment by holding onto the
stationary handles and the moving handles and by striding hands-free. 5. Conserve energy by avoiding
bouncing up and down, but let your heels liſt in a natural way.
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