You might have seen it on the streets or in parks already – it looks like a scooter, but it works like a bicycle and it involves working out to actually move. This is what ElliptiGO is about. It is an elliptical bicycle that boosts a full-body workout while moving around. It looks comfortable and exciting – but most importantly, it looks like a lot of fun.
Now, the question is – is ElliptiGO really worth it? Is it actually giving you any benefits? It looks fun, but is it easier to ride than a traditional bike? It can definitely draw some attention from passers-by, but this is not what you want. All in all, this comparison will explain ElliptiGO vs bike and show you which option is better. ElliptiGO vs Bike- Is ElliptiGO better than a bike for cardio?
The ElliptiGO bike offers you a more diversified workout. In other words, you can feel the experience of a bike ride, but you also experience the elliptical training. Simultaneously! In other words, you save time or you exercise more over the same period of time. The workout is excellent for your cardio condition and you can do it while having fun.
The riding position is vertical. On a bike, you have to sit down, so the seat takes most of the body weight. This bike leaves it on your feet. You will need to move your legs to get going, but without sitting down. Unlike a classic elliptical, your hands are not moving – this is not a comparison to the traditional elliptical, but to the classic bike though. With these thoughts in mind, you do not have to be a genius to realize that ElliptiGO is more efficient than a classic bike for your cardio function because it requires more effort. ElliptiGO vs bike – Muscular activation
If gaining some muscle definition and mass is your primary reason to ride a bike, you are probably still debating – which one is better? Comparing ElliptiGO vs bike at this point is also a no brainer. So, what muscles are you focused on? A classic bike will work on the legs – more specifically, the hamstrings and calves. There is not too much work involved for your core, as you sit down.
ElliptiGO has a unique architecture. You stand up, and you need to maintain your balance, meaning the core is also involved. In terms of working on your legs, this innovative type of bike will focus more on the glutes. It is slightly more balanced, but again, it depends on what muscles you want to develop – the bike might be a better choice. Is a bike more comfortable than ElliptiGO?
If you are used to riding a bike, chances are you will find the ElliptiGO bike a bit weird. You need some coordination while riding it. It feels like you cannot steer – you need to take it slowly or you risk crashing into a wall or even worse, a car. If you are not the type to embrace new things, you better leave the ElliptiGO and stick to the classic bike.
It does have a learning curve, but it is not impossible. As you get used to it, you will be surprised by how steady it feels. It has well-supported foot platforms and a long elliptical path. You may not be sitting down, but you will definitely feel comfortable. It is also more stable, meaning it adds to your comfort. There is one aspect that makes the bike better though – it actually works on your balance and stability. Experiencing pain points
The bike has a bad reputation when it comes to pains. There are two things that will bother you if you like riding for a long period of time. First of all, no matter how well-cushioned, large or comfortable that seat is, it will always feel painful after too much time. You will need to take a break after a while, you often find yourself trying to change the position.
Other than that, the bike will most likely have you keep the neck bent, so you can see what is going on in front of you. After half an hour with your neck in that position, you will often keep your head down. You look up, see a straight stretch for a few hundred yards and start looking down – it feels like taking a break from the pain. When comparing ElliptiGO vs bike, the modern ElliptiGO clearly wins. It offers a more neutral position, so seat and neck pain become history. It is not perfect, though – you are in a standing position, so your back and legs may end up suffering after a while. Overall, it still feels more comfortable than the classic bike. How fast can you go on an ElliptiGO?
ElliptiGO is slightly slower than a bike. The cruising speed goes up to about 15MPH. But then, someone who is just getting used to it is less likely to reach such speeds. At the same time, an experienced rider with good fitness condition can easily reach 20MPH on a flat road – or even more, up to 25MPH down a hill.
The bike is similar in normal conditions – anywhere between 10MPH and 15MPH. Again, regular training, the perfect weight and a bit of experience with resistance reduction can push bikes to faster speeds – up to 30MPH. Obviously, it also depends on what type of bike you use – you cannot go too fast on a mountain bike, for example. How to ride an ElliptiGO
Learn how to use the ElliptiGO in a safe environment. Go into an empty parking lot, abandoned parking or one of those places where new drivers learn to drive – make sure you are alone or far from others. You are likely to lose balance or direction – even fall if this is the first time you ride the ElliptiGO.
There are lots of videos describing the first ride over the Internet. You need to slowly get onto the bike, put the feet in the right positions for the elliptical training to start working and keep going. You will get moving straight away. Keeping direction is a bit more difficult, though, so go at slow speeds as you get used to steering. It might be a good idea to avoid public roads for a few weeks. Tips on how to ride the ElliptiGO
Here are a few tips to consider when getting used to the ElliptiGO.
Conclusion
As a short final conclusion, comparing ElliptiGO vs bike will give you some clear answers based on your goals. If you are after speed and more control, the bike is better. If you want a bit of fun, a new experience and a complete workout, ElliptiGO is the way forward.
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AuthorJude is a fitness expert and blogger. He is the main contributor for Sweat it Out'. You can find the latest blogs here. If you want to know more about us, you can find it on the About page. Feel free to contact us. Archives |