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Services > Personal Training > Elliptical Machine Elliptical Fitness Cross Trainers vs. Step MachinesQ: I'm considering buying a stair climber machine or an elliptical trainer. I've been leaning towards the elliptical, as it seems to be more of an accurate simulation for long hikes on steep terrain. Which type would you suggest? A: If you are set on buying one of the above pieces of equipment to keep in shape for mountain travel, I would recommend the elliptical fitness cross trainers as one of the most versatile pieces of cardiovascular machinery you can buy to prepare for outdoor activities including cross-country skiing, hiking, or running (low ramp), cycling (medium ramp), and climbing (high ramp). You can also pedal backwards to work different muscles in the lower body. Stairs will basically help you with ... stair climbing. You can get an even better workout than a stair climber if you go outside and walk up and down hills or stairs--there will be less of a chance to cheat (done by draping yourself all over the armrests of a stair climbing machine.) But yes, then you DO have to walk down as well -- which provides great interval training. If you don't have the money to invest in a good piece of cardiovascular equipment, simply take your pack and find a good hill or hiking spot such as Mt. Si, Tiger Mountain, Mail Box or the like (near Seattle.) Load up the backpack with jugs of water so that you can dump the water at the top before you descend. Of the Elliptical trainers, I'd suggest you look for a Precor 544 EFX refurbished model (now discontinued) which are priced lower than the newer, high-fangled, bells and whistles Precor 546 EFX that you'll see in some gyms. In fact, for a great deal (we've done all the research) go to either WorldWideFitness.com (their deal: $1,899 for a partially refurbished 544, not including sales tax or shipping.) Or, to save on shipping, for merely a drive up to Everett, you can get a fully refurbished one for about $2,300, including tax, from Exercise Specialties (425-754-7783.) |
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