An elliptical exerciser can provide a calorie-burning workout without some of the shortcomings of other machines. But watch out for quality-control problems.

Elliptical exercisers are part stair-climber, part cross-country-ski machine. Your feet move in flattened circles--an elliptical pattern. The workout value comes from resistance that slows the machine’s flywheel as you try to turn it. Some models use a band around the flywheel; smoother models use magnetic resistance.

Ellipticals have caught on big for a number of reasons: The pedaling is easy on the joints (an advantage over treadmills); the exercise is weight-bearing and helps protect against osteoporosis (an advantage over bicycling and swimming); models with movable arms add an upper-body workout (an advantage over most treadmills and exercise bikes); and using an elliptical is easy (an advantage over cross-country-ski machines, which require a degree of finesse). What’s more, an elliptical lets you burn calories about as effectively as does a treadmill.

These machines are best for someone who’s moderately fit and likely to stay at that level. They tend to be a bit difficult for beginning exercisers, and some may not provide a challenging workout for someone who’s already very fit.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE

Most models that cost less than $1,000 are made by Icon Fitness and sold under the Reebok, NordicTrack, and ProForm brands. They’re sold in big stores like Sears and The Sports Authority. Models that cost up to $2,000 are sold in specialty sports stores or online, under such brand names as Precor and Life Fitness. The more-expensive machines tend to feel more solid, operate more smoothly, and have more features than the under-$1,000 models.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Some ellipticals Consumer Reports has tested suffered from quality-control problems that resulted in clunking noises, scraping surfaces, and occasional broken parts. Look for a warranty of a year or more.

You’re more likely to be happy with a machine that has an easy-to-read monitor, easy-to-understand controls, and pushbuttons to adjust the resistance electrically. Watch out for models with narrow pedals and with moving arms that can whack your arms when you hold the fixed handles. When you try an elliptical in the store, make sure you feel comfortable with the elliptical pattern; it varies from one machine to another.

RECOMMENDATIONS

An elliptical exerciser can provide a decent workout without the joint-pounding impact of running on a treadmill. But don’t expect a model designed for home use to match the quality of health-club versions.

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Copyright © 2003-2007 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

For the latest information on this and many other products and services, visit www.ConsumerReports.org.