Which ElliptiGO is Best for Me?
You’ve heard me rave about my ElliptiGO but you’re probably wondering which one is best for you? ElliptiGOs are unique and definitely in a category all their own, but with seven different models, you can find one that suits you.
I’ve used mine as supplemental training in addition to my running which has helped me average the equivalent of an extra 15-30 miles per week in addition to the 35-40 miles I’m running. So it is as if I’m logging the volume of 50-70 miles of running, without the same wear and tear or recovery time.
And of course, that added volume on the ElliptiGO has resulted in faster times across the board from the 5K to half marathon to trails.
If you think an ElliptiGO might help improve your running, here’s what to consider to find the best one for you:
Who wore it best? OK, JLo is queen, but turns out she chooses the ElliptiGO Long-Stride 11R.
Purpose
Figuring out exactly what you want to use your ElliptiGO for is going to help you determine which model is best for you. The ElliptiGO is an excellent tool for any runner, including road and trail. And if you have been sidelined by injury, you can use it as a tool to regain aerobic fitness while you heal.
Adding Volume : Stacking ElliptiGO rides with runs and incorporating extended rides can increase overall training load without beating up your body or significantly increasing recovery time. I’ve used the ElliptiGO during weekday workouts as part of my warm-up and cool down as well. If adding volume is your primary goal, the Long-Stride 8C or 11R are the best options. Both get the job done, but the 11R has additional features such as a folding steering column for easier loading/unloading from a car and is 4lbs lighter.
The ElliptiGO Long-Stride 11R (black) and 8C (green.)
Building Strength: If building leg strength and power is your aim, take a look at the SUB (Stand Up Bicycle) line from ElliptiGO. With quad-heavy activation, these bikes are great for runners who need a powerful stride, such as mountain runners and track athletes. Depending on the terrain the RSUB (Road Stand Up Bicycle) or MSUB (Mountain Stand Up Bicycle) are best for strength-seekers.
Photo Credit: ElliptiGO.com
Recovering from Injury: If injury is preventing you from running, the ElliptiGO Long-Stride is the best option as it mimics running form the most. Subbing in miles on the ElliptiGO can help you maintain some leg strength, durability and cardiovascular endurance while you rehab your injury. Obviously, this is totally dependent upon your type of injury and some may be contraindicated for Elliptigo use, so it is important to check with your PT or doctor if you are currently injured.
>> Did you know the ElliptiGO helped me PR in the 5K and the half-marathon? Read about that HERE. <<
Terrain
The type of terrain you have access to most frequently impacts which ElliptiGO is best for you. If you live in an area with mostly paved roads, you’ll want to invest in the Long-Stride 8c or 11R or the RSUB. But if you’re surrounded by dirt roads, consider the MSUB as it’s better equipped to handle uneven terrain. When in doubt choose what you’ll ride directly from your house.
The ElliptiGO is perfect for exploring rural New England roads.
So which ElliptiGO would you choose?
Happy Riding!
-Sarah