How is the Arc Trainer Different from an Elliptical?

One of the most common questions we get is, “how is the Arc Trainer different from an elliptical trainer?” This article will address this question and highlight a few key differences and similarities between the two products.

What Makes the Arc Trainer Different from the Elliptical?

The most obvious difference is inherent in the names, which describe the motion of the footplates. On the elliptical, the footplate moves around in an ellipse motion with a cyclical path. As a user pushes down on one footplate, the opposite footplate moves around the ellipse until it reaches the apex of the pattern, after which the user pushes the footplate down again. The elliptical design is inspired by movement patterns of natural locomotion, such as walking and running.  

However, on the Arc Trainer the footplate moves...well...in an arc! On the Arc Trainer the footplate goes forward and backward along the same path. With the arcuate motion, you push down on the pedal, and when it reaches the bottom, the opposite pedal is already forward and ready for you to shift your weight and drive it down. The Arc Trainer design is inspired by loading patterns of locomotion.

What are the Similarities Between the Arc Trainer and Elliptical?

There are several similarities between arc trainer and elliptical machines, including:

• Both are cardio devices that can help get your heart rate up and burn calories
• Both are low-impact machines that eliminate the shock that’s associated with running 
• Both allow for high-intensity interval training workouts
• Both have advanced workouts available to exercisers
• Both have a cyclical, machine-defined motion path

Both the Arc Trainer and Elliptical can provide increased energy demand, oxygen consumption and calorie burn. Rotating use of both machines can provide less stress and improved comfort during your workouts with the opportunity to target difference muscle groups.