Top-Rated Elliptical machines for Dual-Action Training: An Actionable Guide

Elliptical machines are an excellent piece of fitness equipment that provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout. For those looking to get the most out of their training, dual-action ellipticals can be a game-changer. These machines are designed to engage both the upper and lower body simultaneously, providing a full-body workout that maximizes calorie burn, improves endurance, and tones muscles across multiple muscle groups.

In this actionable guide, we'll delve into what makes a dual-action elliptical machine the best choice for your fitness goals and highlight some of the top-rated models that excel in offering a total-body workout. Let's explore the essential features of dual-action ellipticals, how they work, and the top options for users seeking an all-encompassing workout.

What Is a Dual-Action Elliptical Machine?

A dual-action elliptical machine is designed to engage both the upper and lower body during your workout. Unlike traditional ellipticals, which primarily focus on the lower body (legs), dual-action machines incorporate moving handlebars that work the arms, shoulders, and upper torso as well.

The key benefit of a dual-action elliptical is that it combines cardio and strength training in one workout. By working the legs, core, and arms, you can burn more calories, improve overall body strength, and enhance coordination---all while maintaining a low-impact motion on the joints.

Key Benefits of Dual-Action Elliptical Machines:

• Full-Body Engagement: Engages both the lower and upper body for a more efficient workout.
• Calorie Burning : Increased calorie expenditure compared to single-action ellipticals.
• Strengthening Muscles: Helps build muscle in both the upper and lower body.
• Improved Cardio Health: Provides an effective cardiovascular workout that improves endurance.
• Low-Impact: Ideal for those with joint concerns or recovering from injuries.

Essential Features to Look for in Dual-Action Ellipticals

When looking for a top-rated dual-action elliptical, certain features stand out. These ensure that the machine will provide the best full-body workout while offering comfort, performance, and durability.

1. Dual-Action Handlebars

Dual-action ellipticals include handlebars that move forward and backward, allowing you to engage your arms, shoulders, and core. Look for handlebars that are ergonomically designed and adjustable for a natural arm motion. This ensures that your arms can move fluidly, mimicking the natural movement of walking, running, or skiing.

• Ergonomic grips: Helps prevent strain on your hands and wrists, improving overall comfort.
• Multiple grip positions: Allows for different hand placements, targeting different upper-body muscles.

2. Adjustable Resistance and Incline

Adjustable resistance and incline are crucial for customizing your workout intensity. Resistance controls the difficulty level of the workout, and the incline changes the focus of muscle engagement. Both adjustments help you target different muscle groups and improve endurance.

• Adjustable resistance levels: Start with low resistance if you're a beginner, then increase it as you progress.
• Power incline: An incline feature allows you to shift your workout to target different leg muscles, such as quads, hamstrings, and glutes.

3. Smooth and Fluid Motion

A dual-action elliptical should provide a smooth and fluid motion to avoid any jerking or sudden stops. The goal is to mimic natural movement patterns while minimizing the strain on your knees, back, and joints. A smooth motion ensures that both the upper and lower body move in sync, preventing any injury during the workout.

• Flywheel weight: A heavier flywheel generally results in a smoother motion.
• Stride length: Ensure the stride length is appropriate for your height to maintain a comfortable range of motion.

4. Durability and Stability

Given the intensity of dual-action training, stability and durability are essential. Choose a model with a strong frame and solid base to withstand long-term use and heavy workouts. Stability ensures that the machine doesn't wobble or tip during high-resistance sessions.

• Heavy-duty construction: Frames made from steel or other durable materials offer greater longevity.
• Wide base: Wider bases help prevent tipping, especially when engaging in high-intensity workouts.

5. Comfortable Foot Pedals

Comfortable, non-slip foot pedals are essential for a safe and effective workout. The pedal design should ensure that your feet remain securely in place, even during intense intervals. Additionally, foot pedals with shock absorption can reduce strain on your lower legs and joints.

• Large, cushioned pedals: Provides comfort and support, especially during longer workouts.
• Anti-slip surface: Ensures you don't lose your footing, enhancing safety.

Top-Rated Dual-Action Elliptical Machines

Now that we've covered the essential features to look for, let's take a look at some of the top-rated dual-action elliptical machines on the market. These models provide excellent performance, versatility, and value for anyone looking to enhance their fitness routine.

1. Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine

Price: Around $600

Key Features:

• Dual-action handlebars with heart rate monitoring.
• 25 resistance levels for personalized intensity.
• Adjustable incline up to 10 degrees.
• Large, padded foot pedals with cushioning.
• 29 workout programs, including several for fat burning and toning.

Why It's Great for Dual-Action Training : The Schwinn 470 is one of the best value ellipticals for dual-action training, offering adjustable resistance, incline, and ergonomic handlebars. Its 25 resistance levels and incline capabilities make it perfect for a varied, full-body workout.

Actionable Tip: Start with a moderate resistance and incline, focusing on maintaining an even stride and arm movement to ensure you're engaging both upper and lower body muscles effectively.

2. Sole E35 Elliptical Machine

Price: Around $1,700

Key Features:

• Adjustable stride length (20"-22") to suit different body types.
• Power incline up to 20 degrees.
• 20 resistance levels.
• Dual-action handlebars with ergonomic grips and adjustable angle.
• Quiet drive system for smooth, low-impact operation.

Why It's Great for Dual-Action Training : The Sole E35 is a high-end elliptical designed for serious training. Its adjustable stride length and powerful incline system allow users to engage both their upper and lower bodies effectively, providing a well-rounded workout. The ergonomic handlebars ensure comfort during long workouts, while the smooth resistance system offers consistent intensity.

Actionable Tip: Use the incline feature to target your quads and glutes while adjusting the resistance to engage your upper body more during the workout.

3. NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical

Price: Around $2,000

Key Features:

• 26 resistance levels for gradual intensity adjustments.
• 32 pre-programmed workouts, including full-body workouts.
• Adjustable incline and stride length (up to 20").
• Dual-action handlebars with multiple grip positions.
• Interactive touchscreen with iFit integration.

Why It's Great for Dual-Action Training : The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 offers an immersive workout experience with its advanced technology and customizable settings. The adjustable incline and resistance help users challenge their bodies, while the dual-action handlebars engage the upper body effectively. The iFit integration provides virtual workout classes, which are great for guided, full-body exercises.

Actionable Tip: Take advantage of the pre-programmed workouts designed for full-body engagement and combine incline adjustments for muscle variety.

4. ProForm Endurance 920 E Elliptical

Price: Around $1,200

Key Features:

• 24 resistance levels for a wide range of intensity options.
• Adjustable stride length (18"-20").
• Dual-action handlebars with comfortable, ergonomic grips.
• 24 built-in workout programs, including endurance and fat-burning options.
• Smooth and silent operation.

Why It's Great for Dual-Action Training : The ProForm Endurance 920 E provides a smooth, low-impact workout, with an ergonomic design and the ability to customize both the stride and resistance. The combination of resistance levels and pre-set programs makes it easy to build a full-body workout that targets both the upper and lower body.

Actionable Tip: Focus on a consistent pace for your upper and lower body, keeping your hands engaged with the moving handlebars and legs working in sync.

Conclusion

A dual-action elliptical machine is an excellent choice for those looking to engage both the upper and lower body during their workouts. By targeting multiple muscle groups, you can burn more calories, improve cardiovascular health, and increase strength in a shorter amount of time. When shopping for a dual-action elliptical, consider the features that matter most: adjustable resistance and incline, ergonomic handlebars, a smooth motion, and durable construction.

The Schwinn 470, Sole E35, NordicTrack Commercial 14.9, and ProForm Endurance 920 E are some of the top-rated models that provide an effective full-body workout. These ellipticals are perfect for individuals looking to take their fitness to the next level with a total-body, low-impact training routine.

Start with a moderate intensity and gradually increase the difficulty as your fitness improves, and make sure to focus on maintaining proper form for a safe and effective workout.