What Happened to Cardio Glide Type Exercise Machines?

Trendy in the 1990s, the cardio glide exercise machine, which is similar in appearance to a stationary bicycle, combines a pushing-pulling movement to bring your body and the handlebars together in a nonimpact workout. Though the cardio glide works on resistance and provides a cardiovascular workout, the machine is somewhat clumsy to use, and its popularity gave way to the more innovative and slicker elliptical trainer, indoor cycler and cross trainer.

Hybrid Trainer

Today the cardio glide is marketed as a hybrid trainer, which combines the benefits of a recumbent stationary bicycle with those of an elliptical trainer. Though they are still not regularly found in gyms or fitness facilities, you can use the cardio glide, or the hybrid trainer, to meet the weekly cardiovascular requirements set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is 150 minutes.

Considerations

Consult with your physician before using a cardio glide type of exercise machine. The pulling motion executed while using the machine can help to strengthen your back; however, if you don't use it correctly, you can also sustain an injury to your upper or lower back. Try various types of cardio machines and pick the one that works well with your level of health, fitness and mobility.