Sleek and quiet, the Eclipse 1100 HR/A elliptical cross trainer from Fitness Quest makes a terrific home workout accessory. The trainer showcases a unique, patented orbital linkage system that provides you with a smooth elliptical pattern as you work out. As a result, the trainer's quiet, low-impact stride feels completely natural and is exceptionally smooth through the entire range of motion. The machine's expanded electronics package, meanwhile, includes an easy-to-use fitness computer that tracks time, speed, distance, and approximate calories burned. And thanks to the 10 preset workout programs and two heart rate control programs, you can easily define a workout pace that's comfortable yet challenging.
Another handy feature is the 1100 HR/A's focus bar, which features built-in hand pulse sensors for immediate heart rate readings. This gives you a convenient way to keep track of your heart rate, helping you stay within the target zone and maximize your calorie burn. Other details include large, slip-resistant foot pedals designed for stability and ample foot room, a 15-inch stride length, a water bottle holder and reading rack, and a set of bottom wheels for easy transport. The trainer, which holds up to 275 pounds, measures 22.5 by 64 by 41 inches (W x H x D), weighs 90 pounds, and carries a one-year warranty.
About Elliptical Trainers
Elliptical trainers represent the next wave of advancement in low-impact cardiovascular exercise machines and continue to grow in popularity. By simulating motions experienced through walking, stepping, cycling, and skiing, elliptical machines allow for a smooth and fluid motion while building strength in the arms and legs. Similar to the exercise position for treadmills, elliptical trainers are used by standing in an upright position while holding the handrails of the machine. With elliptical trainers, however, your feet remain in the foot pedals throughout the exercise regimen and circulate in a smooth and seamless motion, resulting in little to no impact on the knees, back, and hips.
Elliptical trainers are compatible for all ages and fitness levels and allow you to select the difficulty level through the incline and intensity settings. Additionally, elliptical trainers allow you to determine the complexity of your workout based on your needs, all while listening to music, watching television, or reading a magazine while exercising in the comfort and safety of your own home.
Although different types of elliptical trainers offer an assortment of features, many of them include an array of challenging programs, forward and reverse directional movement, EKG grip pulse handles, a lightweight portable design with easy fold-up capability, and a monitor displaying calories burned, distance, speed, time, and heart rate. Other types of exercise machines, namely treadmills and bikes, offer excellent cardiovascular exercise and muscular training for the legs in a forward-motion exercise. Elliptical trainers take this to the next level by offering an upper and lower body workout with dual motion, challenging and diverse programs, and a low-impact exercise machine that won't strain sensitive joints.
