If you're in the market to buy an elliptical machine or elliptical trainer, you want to get the very best deal you can find. One of the first things to do is check out the reviews and Consumer Reports magazine is a good place to check to see if they have a recent review. You'll want to compare features and costs. You can find many reviews, ratings and rankings online too.

Many of the consumer models found in sporting good and big-box type of retail stores can only handle users weighing no more than 115 kg (250 lbs), and cost about $1000 (US) or less. You may have to go online to buy if you need one that will hold more weight.

The elliptical machine is quickly gaining popularity both in and out of the gym. Almost all gyms, fitness clubs and many homes already have their own elliptical machines. Check with your work associates, neighbors and friends to see if they can recommend an elliptical to you.

The elliptical machine is preferred by many because it's a low or no impact machine making it a perfect choice for people who are suffering from or are recovering from joint problems such as the knees, ankle, hip or back. It provides an excellent aerobic workout with minimal stress on the joints.

If you've decided to buy an elliptical machine for your home or home gym you'll find many different machines and brands. It can be very overwhelming when you're trying to choose the best machine for you.

The elliptical machine is an excellent choice for home equipment, especially if you do not want the traditional treadmill or exercise bike. You can find plenty of low cost or cheap elliptical machines with a little bit of research online.

Today most of the elliptical machines will come standard with an on-board computer. Many people look into elliptical machines that store well. They want to use them when they need them and be able to put them away in a closet when they're not in use. If you're cramped for space or have a small home gym, a spacesaver elliptical trainer can be a great way to save space while getting a good overall body workout. Most elliptical trainers are smaller than a treadmill and can be more easily moved to clean or to store away when company is coming.

The general estimate of calories burned using an Elliptical Trainer are approximately 387 calories for a 150 pound woman who has done 30 minutes of elliptical exercise. According to the machine manufacturers, a general estimate of calories burned by an elliptical trainer can go up to 720 calories an hour. There are a lot of very good brands of elliptical cross trainers on the market today; some of the most popular brands are: Precor, Life Fitness, Quantum Fitness, Horizon, Nordic Track, Smooth and SportsArt Fitness. Elliptical workout machines came onto the scene only just a few years ago and they've been gaining in popularity ever since.

While using an elliptical machine gives you a no-impact workout, the resistance exercise helps to build bone density and therefore fight osteoporosis. Because elliptical machines are a mix between the treadmill and a stair climber, it gives you a great opportunity to cross-train.

With quality elliptical exercise equipment, you feel the movement as fluid and your legs travel in an elongated circular motion. Elliptical trainers use the arms and the legs making it a cross trainer, in a smooth and natural motion.

To get the lowest price on ellipticals, check online first. Then check your local sporting goods stores and ask for a discount. Sometimes this works. Ask for a business discount if appropriate. Check the local used sporting goods or consignment stores if you'd like a used elliptical machine.

If you have any 'pull' with the local health clubs see if you can arrange to get an elliptical trainer through them at their wholesale cost. Check out Costco or Sam's Club to see if they have any ellipticals in stock. Often they have the mid to upper range in quality with a good discount. Watch for sales of course. If you buy online, many of the manufacturers offer free shipping.

Many people with joint problems used to feel they had to give up on exercise, but that's not the case any more with an elliptical machine. Many manufacturers have developed elliptical machines today using high technology. Buying an inexpensive or low cost elliptical machine is easy to do today with so much information being available online.