An elliptical machine, which is also known as a cross trainer, is a tool that is designed to help you lose weight. They will enable you to work out various parts of your body simultaneously and are considered by many to be superior to treadmills, but due to their size, moving them around isn’t easy.  So how much does an elliptical weigh?

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Home vs. Commercial Elliptical Machines

how much does an elliptical weigh?

The weight of the elliptical machine will depend on the type that is purchased. Generally, elliptical machines designed for home use will weigh less than commercial models designed for gyms. If you intend on using one at home, it will weigh approximately one hundred pounds, but machines designed for gyms typically weigh between 150 and 400 pounds. It is important to do your research prior to buying the equipment to find out how much it weighs and where you intend to install it.

Whether you intend on purchasing a home or commercial model, it is highly recommended to install it downstairs if possible. Moving an elliptical machine upstairs takes a lot of work because of the shape and weight. This is why many people leave the job to professional movers rather than handling it themselves. If you’re determined to transport the device yourself in order to save money, there are a number of things you’ll want to keep in mind.

How Elliptical Machines Work

Elliptical machines are also referred to as X or cross trainers and are stationary exercise devices that are used for the purpose of running, walking, or climbing while remaining in place and not producing excess joint pressure. It is sought after by many fitness enthusiasts because its usage decreases the chance of impact injury, which is commonly sustained by those that engage in traditional running or jogging.

In fact, elliptical devices are so effective that many people who have sustained injuries can use them without causing further damage since their impact on the muscles and tendons is so low. They are a type of cardiovascular exercise that is non-impact and can range from light to intense depending on the speed the machine is set at as well as the preferences of the user.

Cross trainers are a fairly recent invention and were first introduced to the market during the 1990s. They can work out both the lower and upper body and although they are classified as being minimal impact, in reality, they do bear weight.

While some models are self-powered, others are generated by the actions and movements of the user, and still, others are plugged in to adjust motion or supply the resistance system and electronic console. Elliptical trainers come in three types, which are determined by the location of their drive or motor. These three types are front-drive, center drive, and rear drive.

Front Drive Elliptical

For front-drive elliptical machines, the flywheel will be situated in front. This feature is designed to make users feel as if they are climbing or walking uphill. These machines have the benefit of being compact in size, which means they don’t take up a lot of room, yet they provide an outstanding workout since those that use them have the feeling that they are climbing or ascending, whereas other models provide movement which is flat running. Another benefit of front drive devices is their stability. Because users will have a heavier flywheel directly beneath them, the machine seems to have greater balance.

Center Drive Elliptical

Rather than leaning on its handrails, center drive elliptical machines allow you to stand upright. For many users, this brings greater comfort and some experts state that this design will allow you to burn additional calories. Their design is also more compact than classical machines which means they use up less space. They use a square rather than a rectangular shape.

Center drive devices are also preferred by many since they place less strain on the hips. This is because the foot pedals are usually positioned closer together which is believed to mimic a running stance which is more natural. It is the best type of equipment for extended workouts.

Rear Drive Elliptical

This is the oldest of the three and is the opposite of a front-drive elliptical since the fly wheel is usually found in the rear of the machine. Pedal movement is more circular than the other variants, which resembles the feel of running or walking. Rear drives allow for a stride that is longer and more natural. Many models come with an incline that will not be found on their front wheel counterparts. This means that users will receive greater resistance and a more challenging workout overall.

This device has a number of other benefits. Although it can be more expensive, it provides smoother operation and is quieter, meaning you’re unlikely to disturb others while using it. Additionally, since rear drive devices are usually manufactured with fewer parts, it is easier to maintain and takes up less space.

Why Buy An Elliptical Machine?

how much does an elliptical weigh

These devices do an amazing job of increasing muscle mass while losing weight and provide all the benefits of running or jogging with none of the drawbacks. Cross trainers in particular are sought after by many since they prioritize upper body movement. Most models come with handlebars that will function as handrails during intense exercises. The model you choose should be determined by the type of exercises you’ll engage in. If your goal is simply better muscle tone, it isn’t necessary to buy the most expensive models.

The sloping roller incline that can be found in some models underneath their pedal links may adjust to allow for different types of pedal motion. The adjustable ramp may be manual or automatic and will alter the elliptical path angle which will vary the hip actuation and stride length.

This gives users the ability to alter their workout so they can target specific muscles. The areas which benefit the most from these machines are the calves, glutes, and hamstrings, as well as the shoulders, triceps, and biceps. Most elliptical devices can be propelled in either a forward or backward direction.

These machines are mainly driven by the legs of the user, and some models utilize combination designs that provide handle levers that are connected to every pedal link and which burden the arms while offering a secondary power source. The

user will grab the handles beneath their shoulder height while pulling and pushing their arms and shuffling their feet in elliptically based paths. As a consequence, the handle motions will oscillate and coordinate with the motions of the pedal.

Low-end machines tend to rely too much on the power of the user’s legs, which results in handle speeds that are too high. This is because the mechanical ratio doesn’t offer sufficient mechanical advantage for its handle levers. A superior elliptical device is one where the user must incorporate their arms and legs. The most advanced models offer greater durability as well as more adjustment options and programs.

However, those that want a machine that can give them excellent cardiovascular workouts will need to look for a heavy-duty elliptical because although they cost more they’re worth it. They provide workout variety that you will not get with entry-level models. At the same time, since they are bulky and heavier than treadmills, moving them around is no easy task, and you’ll need to be sure you have enough space.

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Things to do prior to Moving Your Elliptical

You’ll first want to start by disassembling the equipment. This allows you to move it piecemeal and it will be easier to transport the parts through smaller spaces. While taking it apart and putting it back together may seem like a hassle, depending on its size and weight this might be your only option for moving it, especially if you’re working alone. Even if you’re working with a team, the unique shape of the device combined with its weight can make it tough to move through hallways, doors, or down and upstairs.

When disassembled, the weight, size, and shape of the individual components will be much easier to handle. They can then be packed into individual boxes which can then be transported with ease. Additionally, using moving pads or blankets will protect the equipment so it isn’t scratched or damaged during transport.

Select The Right Moving Tools

It is also essential to use the right moving equipment. Trying to lift an elliptical machine by hand can easily lead to back injuries. This is why it is recommended to make use of dollies or hand trucks, as they make movement easier. Many dollies are L-shaped and have handles on one end with wheels at their base and a smaller ledge to place items on.

It sits flat on the floor when upright, and objects which are placed on it may be tilted backward and then moved by pushing forward. Because the weight of the objects is distributed over the wheels, this makes bulky or heavy items that would normally be difficult or impossible to transport much easier to move.

Dollies are a type of lever that comes in multiple forms. They were invented during the 18th century and were originally designed for young boys or adolescents who weren’t strong enough to lift heavy sacks with their hands. This tool allowed them to work with the same efficiency as adult males, but older men quickly recognized the value of the tool and begin using it themselves.

Dollies became so popular that they were and are still used in breweries, construction, and any industry that requires the frequent movement of heavy objects in tight places. Those who intend to move their elliptical machine upstairs will want to use a dolly that has wheels with a stair climber. These are a special type that uses three wheels

on both sides and always maintains physical contact with the steps for greater stability. However, the downside to stair climbers is that it can be tough to turn the dolly on grounds that are flat since four wheels with a position that is fixed will be in contact with the surface.

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How to Move an Elliptical Machine with a Dolly

 It is also important to pay attention to the type of material the dolly is made from. While some are made from steel tubes, others are made with either impact plastic or aluminum. The dollies which are designed for commercial applications are light yet rugged. They are the best type for moving elliptical machines or parts since they are built with metallic channel side rails which are extruded. Some models also use magnesium components.

Other factors that should be taken into consideration are the type of handle the dolly uses and its wheel size. The shape of the elliptical machine or its subcomponents is very important. For instance, if the part you intend to move is cylindrical in shape, it should be placed on a dolly with a curved backrest. Also, consider the grounds where you plan to push the dolly. If the ground is loose or uneven it is better to use a dolly with bigger wheels that are made from special foam that is puncture-proof.

One thing to always keep in mind is that the nose or toe of the dolly must be roughly 1/3 the load length. It is also essential to make sure you don’t’ scratch or damage the equipment while moving it since elliptical devices are expensive and this could compromise their performance.

One special dolly that can be used for this purpose is the piano tilter. It is designed for moving upright pianos without damaging them, and given the fact that a piano weighs about the same amount as an elliptical machine or more, it might also be used for safely transporting it. It differs from a classical dolly that pivots around the small point or wheel; instead, a piano tilter uses large sections which are curved to carefully tilt the object upright until it can be laid down gently.