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. Things have changed since then, especially in the elliptical industry.

Ellipicals have become extremely popular in gyms and fitness clubs—and even in private homes. Fitness enthusiasts love them because they can provide a very challenging (and very safe) 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. The addition of these handles burned more calories, gave the user a more natural walking feel when using, and made for safer and more stable use.

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.

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