The elliptical and ascent trainer are low-impact machines. Low-impact exercise typically puts less stress on your joints than high-impact exercise. This makes the elliptical a safer option if you have a musculoskeletal condition such as low-back pain, knee or hip pain, or other health conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis.
Low-impact exercise may sound like it isn’t strenuous, but it still provides a good aerobic workout.
Even though an elliptical is a low-impact machine, it still gives you the ability to get a high-intensity workout. This can be especially helpful if you’re recovering from an injury, yet still want to maintain a high level of fitness.
An elliptical gives you the option to switch direction and work backwards as well. This can change up the muscles you work. If you go backward instead of forward, you’ll work out and strengthen your calves and hamstrings.
The Ascent trainer does the same with 1 extra benefit, it allows you to incline or raise the machine. The higher the incline, the more you work your glutes, so crank up that incline. Play with resistance and incline.
As a general rule, you should always “feel” the tension as you push and pull the pedals and handlebars. Use the upper body handlebars and push with your chest and pull with your back, but keep a light grip so your legs do most of the work.
Check out these websites for additional information.
https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/elliptical-benefits
https://www.matrixfitness.com/us/eng/innovations/rising-to-new-heights