Because of this, ellipticals are great for anyone with sports injuries or other concerns. They are also terrific for older users. Cross Training Elliptical machines also offer guests cross training, which means that it works different muscle groups at the same time. Precor designated the EFX as a crosstrainer because the slope, or grade, of the foot pedals can be set anywhere from 10-40 degrees. Set at the steepest slope, the EFX simulates hiking, and at the lowest, walking.
Reverse motion uses the hamstrings more, while forward motion focuses on the gluteus.
Both directions minimize the potential for aggravating knees, while developing hip flexibility and good range of motion in the knees. Some commercial crosstrainers include arm handles, creating a more total-body workout. Using a shorter stride simulates warming up, and lengthening it emulates jogging or running uphill. Additionally, VSL allows everyone from the tallest to the most petit user to replicate their natural stride - at whatever speed they are going. According to the American Council on Exercise, elliptical machines are fairly complex devices, and, therefore, somewhat costly.