Exercise machine or Ergometer?

For many categories of fitness equipment there is a distinction between the basic exercise machine and the ergometer. This distinction can be found with bikes and crosstrainers. An ergometer will generally be more expensive than the basic home exerciser. But what exactly is the difference between the two, since on first sight they look identical.

Exercise Machine

An exercise machine, like the Reebok i-bike uses a magnetic braking system. A permanent magnet puts the drag on the flywheel mass. The resistance is changed with a mechanical adjustment mechanism, which uses a cable to regulate the distance between flywheel and magnet. This way the resistance is set higher or lower and the workout intensity is controlled. The resistance or intensity is shown in number values, this system is however not calibrated and can vary even among the same model. Within the same model line a setting of 5 often does not mean a corresponding resistance. These exercise machines are not suitable for targeted and therapeutic training. They can be used for a basic work out or for a specific fitness goal.

Ergometer

One of the important positive points to favor an ergometer like the Reebok B 5.5 is the ability to perform a watt controlled work out. This means the workout can be exactly repeated, and aided by the watt display the training is very precisely controlled. With regard to health oriented training or if the user suffers from cardio-vascular problems, watt controlled training is indispensable.
The drag on the flywheel of an ergometer is produced by a coil’s magnetic field. The desired resistance is transmitted to the coil via the electronics of the computer, which in turn increases or decreases the voltage. What voltage is necessary for the watt setting is regulated by DIN norm 957HA. The actual performance has to be within +/- 5% of the displayed value. Sound ergometers are always calibrated and therefore offer great reliability. Ergometers like the Reebok B 5.7e or the Reebok Crosstrainer C 5.5e, are a little more expensive than a basic exercise machine but are absolutely worth the extra money.

The decision to purchase the regular exercise machine or an ergometer is dependant upon how the unit will be used and what the users training goals are.
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