Self-generating power
An elliptical trainer with self-generating power utilizes
the energy of your workout as you exercise to keep the machine’s batteries
charged up so you don’t need to continue to replace batteries or plug in the
machine.
Shroud
The casing typically surrounding the elliptical trainer’s
drive mechanism / flywheel is called the shroud.
Sound system
Some of the mid to high-end elliptical trainers feature a
sound system on their consoles, incorporating audio speakers and either MP3
connectivity or Bluetooth connectivity so you can listen to your favorite music
as you exercise.
Stabilizers
Elliptical trainers are constructed with stabilizers, metal
tubing with feet that extend out from the front and back base of the machine to
the left and right, with the purpose of providing added stability and reducing
side-to-side motion. Some of the
higher-end machines have the addition of a central stabilizer for extra
stability.
Stride length
Different elliptical trainers can have different stride
lengths. The cheaper machines tend to
have a shorter stride length (around 14” – 16”) than the higher-end machines,
making them more suited to smaller people.
The ideal stride length to have an elliptical trainer for most people
would be around 18” but taller people may need a machine with a 20” or
more. Some of the higher-end elliptical
machines offer an adjustable stride length so that each individual can get the
best fit.