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. The adjustable resistance and incline features allow users to customize workouts, targeting specific muscle groups more intensely.
This low-impact nature makes it suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels and those recovering from injuries. The ability to engage both the upper and lower body simultaneously contributes to a higher caloric expenditure compared to some other cardio equipment. Elliptical training emerged as a popular exercise modality in the late 20th century, offering a weight-bearing cardiovascular workout with minimal stress on joints.
