Looking for the best elliptical machines? It\’s no secret that elliptical trainers get better and better each year.

Manufacturers are figuring out new ways to add value and make stronger machines – while keeping prices stable (not an easy task).

Shopping for an elliptical can be fun, especially when you see all the new additions manufacturers have made.

So if you\’re looking for the best elliptical for you – here\’s an overview of what you can expect to find in the new 2012 crosstrainers.

#1 Longer Strides

Stride length is the furthest distance between the pedals. A longer stride more fully works your lower body muscles and also feels more comfortable. Strides run from a very short 12 inches up to a whopping 24\”.

Most people, regardless of height, feel best with an 18 – 21\” stride. It used to be hard to find a longer stride as most trainers used to offer from 14 – 17\”. But now it\’s becoming a lot easier to find an affordable elliptical with an 18 – 20\” stride.

#2 More Comfortable Design

Several manufacturers have really stepped up their game and put a lot into making their best elliptical machines designed to be more natural and comfortable. For example you\’ll find closer foot pedals (less strain on your hips), more upright design (less learning on the arm bars) and even lower step-on heights.

You\’ll see angled foot pedals that more closely mimic the way your body naturally runs (to again, lessen the strain on your joints). There are even adjustable stride lengths so everyone can choose the stride the feels best for them.

#3 Incline

Incline (also called ramp) used to be a feature you could only find in health-club ellipticals. However it\’s becoming more common to find in home crosstrainers over the past few years. Incline changes the slope of your elliptical pathway, which helps you to target different lower body muscles. This is a great way to crosstrain and burn the maximum amount of calories.

And one thing that\’s completely new this year is that there are even a few models with decline (negative incline). So you can slope up or down on your elliptical. Very cool.

#4 Online Tracking and New Workout Downloads

This is a huge improvement in the newer models coming out. There are several brands that have added Wifi-capability to their ellipticals.

You can connect your elliptical to the Internet (using the wireless Internet in your home) and from their download new workouts, track your fitness stats online or even map out new workout routes. There\’s even one elliptical coming out in the 2012 year with a built-in web browser.

#5 Arm Bar Controls

Several manufacturers are also now adding resistance controls to the moving arm bars on their ellipticals. While this seems like a small thing, it\’s actually very convenient since you don\’t have to reach up to the console to change the resistance – which can throw off your pace.

So those are some of the new features you\’ll find on the best elliptical machines this year. The good news is that there\’s never been a better time to buy.

Machines are being made to last longer and take more of a beating. And by taking the time to research before you buy you\’re practically guaranteed to find a crosstrainer that you love.

Kathryn ONeill is chief editor for Elliptical Reviews a site offering the latest elliptical reviews, ratings and buying tips.

For a list of this year\’s top elliptical trainer visit Best Elliptical Trainer Buys.

Kathryn ONeill is chief editor for http://www.EllipticalTrainerReview.com – a site offering the latest elliptical reviews, ratings and buying tips.
For a list of this year\’s top elliptical trainer visit http://www.EllipticalTrainerReview.com/Best-Elliptical-Trainer.html

Author Bio: Kathryn ONeill is chief editor for Elliptical Reviews a site offering the latest elliptical reviews, ratings and buying tips.

For a list of this year\’s top elliptical trainer visit Best Elliptical Trainer Buys.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: best elliptical machines,best elliptical,crosstrainer,trainer,incline,review