Orbitreks - this is an elliptical trainers! Everyone knows that people can have different stride lengths. It depends both on height and on other anatomical features, such as leg length and joint mobility. Therefore, when choosing an orbit track, the step length is taken into account in the first place. What is this characteristic and how to choose it correctly?

Elliptical trainer stride length: what is this value?

First you need to figure out what the step length of an orbit track is. This concept means the distance that the pedal travels from the starting point of the trajectory of movement to the end. This is a very important parameter, which determines how correctly the joints, ligaments and muscles will work during the training. The safety of exercising on the simulator also depends on the correct choice of step length, since with an incorrectly chosen characteristic, the likelihood of sprains and ligament injuries increases.

Some also notice that it is easy and convenient for them to work on one orbitrek, and on the other, training is accompanied by discomfort and premature fatigue. Most often, it is the wrong step length that is to blame for this.

Manufacturers cannot produce ellipsoids, taking into account the individual characteristics of each user. But they do everything to adapt the simulators to the needs of users as accurately as possible. Home orbitreks most often have an average step length of 42 - 45 cm. It is designed for people of average height and normal build. At the same time, this length is not suitable for short and, conversely, tall people. It will also be too large for the elderly and those whose opportunities are limited due to their state of health.

Empirically, scientists of biomechanics have established the optimal step length on the orbit track for athletes with different heights and levels of physical fitness:

  • Up to 36 cm for people of short stature, elderly users and those undergoing rehabilitation;
  • From 39 to 42 cm for those whose height is considered average, 160 - 180 cm;
  • 45 to 55 cm for tall users, above 180 cm.

Given these characteristics, you can accurately choose your “own” orbitrek running cardio machine, training with which will be effective and comfortable.

Elliptical trainers with variable stride length

But advice on choosing stride length is only appropriate if the cardio equipment is chosen for a particular person. But what if the simulator is used by a family where there are adults of different heights and children? But what if you need a commercial elliptical trainers for a fitness club, with which dozens of people with different physiques and needs train every day?

For such cases, many well-known brands produce orbitreks with adjustable stride length. Anyone can quickly and accurately adjust such a device for themselves. Manufacturers use different adjustment technologies in different models. In some, the movement of the pedals to the desired position is performed mechanically, manually. But there are also ellipsoids in which the adjustment is carried out through the built-in computer. The athlete just needs to set the desired length on the console, using the buttons or the touch panel. Usually such adjustments are offered by professional orbitrecks, the price in Ukraine of which is higher than home ones. But their versatility, reliability and many useful options are worth the investment.

The online store of cardio equipment CARDIOZONA.COM offers to buy orbitreks for home and commercial use from world famous brands. We have in the catalog both equipment with a fixed stride length, and with adjustable in different ways. With us, you can buy, pay in installments and get a loan on very favorable terms. All simulators are provided with an official warranty and after-sales service on the territory of Ukraine.