Can you get a good workout from an elliptical glider machine?

[ChristySmiles]

I've been thinking about getting an elliptical machine. However, I noticed that there are different types. I was wondering if the glider version is better than the one that bends your knees. Does anyone have either of these machines? What sort of benefits can I expect? Personally, I'm leaning more toward the gilder (if that helps)

[Mike]

I think you get more resistance from a traditional elliptical machine than you will from the glider types. That said, if you are looking for something that is easier on your knees and you just want some good cardio, a glider should give you want you need. Just don't expect any real resistance training from it.

[lia]

I love my glider! It gives both my legs and arms a good workout and is great for burning calories. I like that it's gentle on my knees, too. I find it to be a very versatile machine. I'm sure an elliptical is good too, but I prefer the glider only cause it's gentler on my joints.

[jan]

Definitely more strength training benefit from an elliptical. That said, a strider/glider does offer you benefits for your arms, shoulders, legs, thighs, hips, buttocks and even a bit of core workout. It all depends on how you use it. That said a strider is definitely low-impact cardio.

[ChristySmiles]

Definitely more strength training benefit from an elliptical. That said, a strider/glider does offer you benefits for your arms, shoulders, legs, thighs, hips, buttocks and even a bit of core workout. It all depends on how you use it. That said a strider is definitely low-impact cardio.

Oh cool! I didn't realize it had all these benefits. I don't mind if it's low-impact, that's what I'm looking for. Plus, these machines seem to be way cheaper! Thanks for all the advice and don't worry, I know that I'm not going to see mind-blowing results from using a strider, but I don't need that. I just want to feel more in shape and lose a bit of weight without feeling like I'm putting my body through the ringer!

[Tiff]

Oh cool! I didn't realize it had all these benefits. I don't mind if it's low-impact, that's what I'm looking for. Plus, these machines seem to be way cheaper! Thanks for all the advice and don't worry, I know that I'm not going to see mind-blowing results from using a strider, but I don't need that. I just want to feel more in shape and lose a bit of weight without feeling like I'm putting my body through the ringer!

You can get a decent workout from most exercises. I find it's not the machine that matters as much as your commitment to keep doing it!

[ffviifan]

You can get a decent workout from most exercises. I find it's not the machine that matters as much as your commitment to keep doing it!

Honestly, that really is the truth. While some machines are better than others in terms of intensity and the type of muscles, etc. you want to build, on the whole, your success at burning calories really boils down to being active and staying committed to being active. If you can't commit to some form of exercise every day for 30 minutes (be it 30 minutes all at once or in 10 minute intervals) no machine is going to help you. Commitment is key. If this is what you're actually struggling with, I'd recommend first finding ways to remain committed before dropping cash on a machine you'll only use for a short while...