Running is great, isn't it? But the for some people the risk of injury is very real, and is simply too great. There are literally dozens of injuries that can result from simply the trauma of slamming the feet down on a hard surface. Bone and joint problems in the legs and knees are frighteningly common, and hip and feet problems can also arise. Many of the problems won't rear their ugly heads until later in life, so it's worth taking a look at what you are doing to your body.
Elliptical trainers, if used properly, can greatly reduce stress, strains and impact damage that can result from traditional running and jogging exercise on pavements and on the well-loved treadmill. Ellipticals provide a fluid workout to both the upper and lower parts of the body, helping exercised muscles to compliment one another and providing a non-impact workout that targets key muscles groups while eliminating damage.
Running injuries that can be avoided by using an elliptical instead of a treadmill include:
Pulled hamstringsSnapping hip syndromeHip bursitisPlica syndromeDislocated knee capsPatellofemoral syndromeShin splintsStress fracturesAchilles tendonitisSprained anklesFoor overpronationArch painPlantar fasciitis
It's also possible to fall over, but looking at that list this should be the least of your worries! For these many reasons physician prefer that their patients adhere to low to non-impact cardio vascular activity such as what can be obtained by utilising an elliptical trainer.
Running, by virtue of the steps being 'explosive' and the impact triggering fast-twitch muscular responses, tends to bulk up the legs, while ellipticals are more suited to firming and toning.
Finally, elliptical training is favoured over traditional running because it can, if the handles on the machine are used, provide resistance for the upper as well as lower body. The result is a satisfying exercise for the whole body that raises the heart beat and provides the user with a safer way in which to burn those calories and tone their muscles.
