The history of ellipticals

Mechanized exercise machines have existed in one form or another for over a century. Some of the early devices used springs and belts to build muscle mass or provide a cardiovascular workout. We’ve come a long way since then: This becomes especially evident when you consider ellipticals.

Ellipicals have become extremely popular in gyms and fitness clubs—and even in private homes. Athletes and work out enthusiasts are head over heals for them because they are proven to give a save and powerful cardiovascular workout. Ellipticals let the user experience a wide range of motion, but without any painful impact on the joints.

Ellipticals take their name from the oval (“elliptical”) motion of the foot pedals. Although they now occupy a central place in gyms and health clubs, this design was revolutionary when ellipticals were first introduced. In fact, most people would be surprised to know that this category of exercise machine has existed for only 15 years.

The original elliptical machine was created in 1995. It was something completely original, and became a very popular piece of equipment among everyone, from the weekend warriors to extreme athletes. Unlike elliptical machines most of us use today, this first model had only foot pedals, and worked only the lower body.

A new version of ellipticals came to market only five years late. It had handles like ski poles and in turn the user would get a full body work out. Not only did this burn more calories, but it also created a more natural walking/striding movement and provided a greater measure of safety and stability for users.

Every since the addition of poles, the standard elliptical didn’t change very much, but manufacturors of ellipticals are never satisfied. And so, fine-tuning is always on cutting edge in order to make a more comfortable, safe, more fun, and better work out possible.

Because of the fantastic workout quality they offer, ellipticals will continue to be a leader in their share of the exercise machine industry. Designers are constantly at work, and it will be interesting to see how ellipticals change in the next several years.