Training on an elliptical machine is one of the best ways to get a full body workout on a single machine. Elliptical machines have a unique motion that has all the benefits of running without any of the harsh impact on your legs and joints. Virtually every health club in the world now use elliptical machines as the number one cardiovascular training machine. Its particularly good for people who have back or knee problems and if you are overweight and find running painful, then an elliptical trainer will leave you with no excuses.

The elliptical motion of the machine was originally intended to mimic that of running - with the obvious benefit of not hitting the ground and experiencing the pounding your knees take as your full bodyweight comes crashing down on your legs. Running (or even walking) for fitness and weight loss is a real challenge for people who are overweight. With excessive body weight, the added pressure on your legs can be extremely painful and even cause permanent damage.

Elliptical trainers provide low impact training that works both the upper and the lower body. The extended arm motions, combines with the "walking" is a great cardiovascular workout. With different levels of resistance you can vary the intensity of your workout and because there is virtually no impact on your legs and joints you get a very targeted and efficient workout.

Elliptical trainers have become much more affordable in recent years and today you can buy a commercial grade machine for less than $1000. Having one of these machines at home is a great way to stay in shape and get a complete daily workout - in the comfort of your own home. Although they are rather big machines, they tend to come with wheels, so you can move them around the home quite comfortably and if you feel like working out in front of your favorite TV show, you can just wheel it in and out.

If there is one piece of exercise equipment that will give you the kind of workout you need to lose weight and stay healthy, then this is it. You don't need hundreds of gimmick machines you buy from infomercials. You just need a good cardiovascular workout every day - and you will find it in an elliptical trainer.