Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Muscle Function Obtained with Motion Mode Ultrasound and Surface Electromyography during Core Endurance Exercise
Published on: August 25, 2022
How do elliptical machines differ from walking: a study of torso motion and muscle activity
Janice M Moreside1, Stuart M McGill
1Dalhousie University, Canada.
Background:
The elliptical trainer is a popular exercise modality, yet its effect on the lumbar spine is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of different hand positions, speed and stride lengths on spine kinematics and corresponding muscle activity while using the elliptical trainer, and compare with those demonstrated in normal walking.
Methods:
Electromyographic data was collected over 16 trunk and gluteal muscle sites on 40 healthy males (mean age (SD)=23(3)) while on the elliptical trainer. Two stride lengths (46, 66cm), 2 speeds (self-selected, 30% faster), and 3 hand positions (freehand, central bar, handles) were analyzed. Lumbar spine kinematics was calculated from data collected using a motion capture system. Results were compared to those found in walking using repeated measures ANOVA for each dependent variable with Bonferroni adjustments (P<0.004. Correlations were made between lumbar motion and various anthropometric measures.
Findings:
All significance levels comparing walking to elliptical varied according to stride length, speed and hand position. Average lumbar flexion angles and lumbar rotation were generally greater on the elliptical trainer, whereas walking produced more frontal motion. Total lumbar flexion/extension was similar between the two activities. Muscle activation patterns of the gluteal muscles were consistently higher on the elliptical, whereas the back extensors, latissimi and internal obliques were greater in only selected conditions.
Interpretation:
The various hand positions, speeds and stride lengths affect lumbar motion and muscle activity on the elliptical trainer, thus must be considered when incorporated into an exercise protocol.
Related Concept Videos
Axial and Appendicular Muscles
Axial Muscles
Axial muscles, situated along the body's midline, are intricately connected to the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, spine, ribs, and sternum. These muscles facilitate facial expressions and play a...
Isotonic and Isometric Muscle Contractions
Isotonic contractions
Isotonic contractions occur when a muscle changes length while the...
The Muscular System
Exercise and Muscle Performance
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Muscles of the Thorax
The diaphragm is at the core of thoracic musculature, the primary muscle involved in breathing. This expansive, dome-shaped muscle marks the division between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. It originates...
Anatomical Movements
Here are some common anatomical movements:
Flexion and extension motions are in the sagittal (anterior–posterior) plane of motion. These movements take place at the shoulder, hip, elbow, knee, wrist, metacarpophalangeal,...
