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Wow. That's an expensive Christmas present!

I really like my elliptical. I have asthma, so I have to be very careful when exercising that I don't overdo it, and running on a treadmill or elliptical is a great way to get my heart rate up, I can focus on controlling my breathing, and pace myself accordingly.

Mine is a Kettler and is a great smaller elliptical; it won't take up as much room as a full-sized one, and they're a little less expensive (still $1,000+).

http://www.fitness-equipment-source.com/elliptical...

I feel I get a little better workout on the elliptical than on a treadmill, but with a treadmill, you have more options (walking, running, incline, flat, etc.) With an elliptical, you can't go too slow; there's a definite rhythm you get into on it. But it's always the same motion.

Good luck!

I have used elliptical's extensively and find them a great non-impact alternative to running or even walking. Having bad knees physically prevents me from doing more than 5 or 10 minutes on a treadmill, yet I can stay on an elliptical for over an hour with no problems. It's fine for cardio, and with resistance, can help build some muscle.

Elliptical trainers really work. It is very useful and successful for health and fitness. I really like my elliptical machine. Elliptical trainer is also beneficial for weight loss.

Source : http://www.ellipticalhub.com/

i love it,works great low impact on the knees with the same benifits of running:):)