Endurance E7, E7HRC Owner's Manual

E7 and E7HRC OWNERʼS MANUAL

ELLIPTICAL CROSS TRAINING

Proper ergonomics transform workouts

When it comes to elliptical cross trainers, the newest and
fastest growing category of fitness equipment, all definitely
are not created equal. Anyone can step onto several
different machines and quickly realize that each has its own
very distinct motion and feel, unlike other fitness equipment
such as treadmills and stationary bikes.

An elliptical cross trainer is a unique combination of a stair
climber and a cross-country ski machine, requiring the feet
to follow an elliptical motion that typically goes forward or
reverse. Some units also include arms that engage the upper
body as well. The advantage of these total-body machines
is that they require on upright, weight bearing position in
a natural, closed kinetic chain while training all the bodyʼs
major muscle groups - including the gluteals, hamstrings,
quadriceps, calves, lats, chest, deltoids, biceps, and triceps

- which, worked together, result in maximum calorie burn and
distinguishes ellipticals from virtually all other cardiovascular
equipment.

Quality elliptical machines foster a smooth, natural, low­impact cardiovascular workout that challenges everyone from
beginners to elite athletes. Studies have shown that
compared to other exercises, total body elliptical cross
trainers require significant oxygen consumption and result in
high caloric expenditure for efficient, effective workouts. Also,
total body machines that disperse the exercise throughout
enable exercisers to work at higher intensities without actually
perceiving greater exer tion.

Critical ergonomic factors

While biomechanics are integral in developing elliptical cross
trainers, ergonomics is really where the rubber hits the road.
Ergonomics is the science of adapting external conditions to
suit individuals, or in this case, using biomechanical analysis
to build the best feeling elliptical cross trainers to satisfy
exercisers and deliver results.

The essential ergonomic factors for elliptical cross trainers all
contribute to its motion or feel, and exercisers should
evaluate the following when choosing equipment:

Stride length - Either extreme, long or short, can cause
hyperextension in the hip joint in the for ward motion as wall
as unnatural, forced hip flexion when going in reverse, and
both can cause discomfort. The optimal stride length of 18.5”,
should comfortably accommodate the majority of individuals
in both forward and reverse motion.

Stride angle / height - This refers to the shape of the actual
ellipse, whether it is more circular or oblong. It should not feel
too vertical like a stair climber of cycle or too flat like a cross­countr y skier. The result is a natural, comfortable ride that
optimally engages all major lower body muscles.

Stride width / pedal spacing - The wider the space between
the pedals, the greater the hips shift laterally during the
movement, which can create lower back pain. In addition, a
wide stance feels distinctly unnatural, since people walk and
run with their feet and legs close together.

It is easy to see why these machines are tremendously
popular, but before investing in an elliptical cross trainer, it is
critical to evaluate its overall feel.

The importance of biomechanics

Biomechanics, which is the study of human movement, is an
important consideration for any piece of fitness equipment,
but even more so with the elliptical cross trainer due to the
complexit y and variance of its movement. For the optimum
workout, the machine must fit the exerciser; individuals should
never be required to adapt their posture, position of
movement pattern to fit a piece of equipment. Elliptical cross
trainers ideally should simulate how the body naturally moves
for people of various shapes and sizes.

The motion on an elliptical cross trainer should replicate
movements like walking of running, which involve similar
biomechanics. Engineers therefore must consider numerous
factors to make the exercise biomechanically correct while
eliminating unnatural alignment of excessive, repetitive stress
or torque.

On most elliptical cross trainers, the biomechanical analysis
is as follows: the body moves in a linear direction through
flexion and extension at numerous joints in the sagittal plane,
including the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle. Machines
with arms may also include a minimal amount of radial and
ulnar deviation in the frontal plane at the wrist joint. Also, in
total body units, the erector spinae may engage in a bit of
rotation in the transverse plane throughout the range of
motion.

Pedal acceleration - Anyone who has tried several brands
of ellipticals immediately notices the difference in how quickly
and smoothly the pedals move. Some are faster on the down­stroke and drag on the upswing, others have a “kick” on the
upswing that unnaturally propels the pedals and can throw
exercisers off balance. Without steady pedal acceleration, the
result is an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe movement.

Inertia - Iner tia deals with the amount of effor t it requires to
get the pedals moving. With too much inertia, it is difficult to
get the machine going, but once started, momentum kicks in
and relieves exercisers of significant effort, which takes away
from the workout.

Pedal articulation - In most elliptical machines, the ankle
joint engages in dorsi flexion on the downstroke and plantar
flexion on the upstroke. Excessive plantar flexion leads to
transient paresthesia, a “numb toe” condition due to
compression of ner ves in the foot, and extreme dorsi flexion
can limit knee and hip extension, which are essential for a
complete range of motion.

Upper body pivot point and range of motion - Unlike
treadmills, stationary cycles and stair climbers, many
elliptical cross trainers engage the upper body in movements
that should be synchronized with leg motion. Arm handles
should simulate natural shoulder and arm flexion and
extension as seen in walking or running, and that excessive
radial or ulnar deviation may cause wrist discomfort.

2

HEART RATE TRAINING

Heart Rate Training Maximizes

Performance

During exercise, the heart beat, or pulse rate, is a valuable
gauge of intensit y level - the more vigorous the workout, the
faster the heart must pump to deliver oxygen rich blood to
hard working muscles. Research shows that exercising in
target heart rate zones is the best way to improve
cardiovascular health while preventing under-training which
minimizes results, as well as over-training and risking injury
or burnout. Essentially, it amounts to smarter, more ef fective
workouts.

Cardiovascular exercise should be performed at 55% to 90%
of oneʼs maximum heart rate (MHR), one way to determine
your MHR is by using the following equation: 220-age=MHR.
Or by using a chart:

Advances in fitness equipment

Premium cardiovascular machines feature technology that
facilitates accurate heart rate monitoring using telemetry or
hand sensors. With telemetry, exercisers wear a chest strap,
and the machine wirelessly picks up the heartʼs signal and
displays the heart rate on the console. Some manufacturers
also of fer hand sensors that exercisers grip to get a hear t rate
reading. Because muscle contraction interference can cause
erratic readings with hand sensors, telemetry is generally
more accurate.

Some fitness equipment also offers pre-designed programs
that take the guesswork out of heart rate training by keeping
exercisers at predetermined hear t rate zones. For example, in
a workout that requires 80% MHR, the machine picks up the
heart rate from the exerciserʼs chest strap and automatically
varies resistance levels so the user maintains the proper
intensity.

The advantage is that exercisers donʼt have to continually
monitor and readjust to ensure that they are at the appropriate
level because the machine does it for them. These programs
also provide valuable variety, enhance motivation and help
improve performance.

Technology boost heart rate monitoring

Heart rate can be measured by palpating an ar tey and
counting the beats. But even simpler is using a heart monitor,
which consists of a strap worn around the chest that picks
up the heartʼs electric signal and a wristband receiver that
displays the number of beats. Qualit y monitors are nearly as
accurate as clinical EKGʼs.

The first heart rate monitor was developed in 1977 as a
training tool for the Finnish National Cross Country Ski Team.
During the 1980s, heart rate monitoring became more popular
with athletes, as they saw its effectiveness in enhancing their
performance. Endurance athletes like elite runners,
competitive cyclists, and even Olympic athletes have attested
to better overall results due to hear t rate training.

3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Save these instructions

Failure to follow any of the following safety instructions may
result in injury or serious health problem:

•Use this exercise product only as intended and
described in this Ownerʼs Manual.
Do not use attachments not recommended by the
manufacturer.

•Never drop or insert any object into any opening, or
on the Pedal Arm Guide Rails.

•Do not place fingers, feet or any other object into or
near the moving par ts.

•Never turn foot pedals, pedal arms or crank by
hand.

•To avoid entanglement and possible injur y, do not
expose hands or arms to the drive mechanism.

•Do not dismount the E7 until the pedals are at a
complete stop.

•Warn bystanders to keep a safe distance away. Do
not allow anyone (other than the user) to touch the
machine while it is in operation.

•Do not remove the side covers. Only on authorized
retailer should perform maintenance or repair
services.

•Do not use outdoors.

Children

•Keep children off and away from your E7 at all
times.

Assembly

If you have elected to assemble this product yourself,
please read and follow each of the steps in the enclosed
assembly instructions. It is recommended that assembly be
performed by an authorized retailer. If you have any ques­tions regarding any part or function of your E7, contact your
retailer.

Moving your E7

Your E7 has a pair of transport wheels built into the front
foot. It is easy to move your E7 by picking up the back end
and rolling it on the front wheels.

Placement in your home

It is important that you place your E7 in a comfortable and
inviting room. Your E7 is designed to use minimal floor
space. Many people will place their E7 facing the TV or a
picture window. To make exercise a desirable daily activity
for you the E7 should be in attractive setting.

Leveling your E7

If your E7 wobbles when you have placed it where you
intend to use it, raise or lower the four adjustable levelers.
Two are located on either side of the rear stabilizing frame,
and two are on each side under the housing.

Foot position

Your E7 has a large foot pedal, offering you a variety of foot
positions. When using your E7 you may notice that your
heel rises off the footpad. This is normal heel-toe-plant
walking or running motion and you should not try to prevent
this.

•When the E7 is in use, young children and pets
should be kept at least 10 feet away.

Other safety tips for your E7

•CAUTION! If you experience chest pains, nausea,
dizziness or shortness of breath, stop exercising
immediately and consult your physician before
continuing.

•Donʼt wear loose clothing that might catch on any
par t of the E7.

•Read this Ownerʼs Manual in itʼs entirety before
operating the E7

Cleaning

•Use a damp cloth to wipe your E7 and console free
of sweat and dust. Always avoid getting extra
moisture on the console. By keeping the console
face free of sweat, you can extend the consoleʼs life.

•Important Reminder: NEVER use petroleum - based
solvents when cleaning. Doing so will damage the
finish on your E7.

How to use the E7

To start using the E7 simply stand on the foot pedals with
the toes of your shoes close to the front edge of the foot
platform.
Place your hands in a comfortable position on the
handlebars. Simply move your highest foot forward and
follow the natural path of the machine.

E7 motion handles

Working in unison with the adjustable resistance of the
elliptical stride, the motion handles are designed to work
your upper body in rhythm with your lower body. The
ergonomic design encourages good posture and proper
technique. When working with the motion handles for the
first time, start out at slow pace to get accustomed to the
total body motion.

The stationary handles are there for additional support. On
the stationary handles are the metallic contact heart rate
pads, to be used if you are not wearing a Heart Rate
Monitor Transmitter.

4

CONSOLE

Converting from metric to standard

First locate the switch on the reverse side of the panel.
Flipping the switch to the upper position means your
readouts are in the STANDARD format. Flipping the switch
down converts the readouts to METRIC. Remember that
1 mile equals 1.6 kilometers.

Turning the screen display on

You can turn your console on by either pressing the START
button at the bottom of the console or by simply getting on
your elliptical and beginning your stride.

Clearing previously stored information

Your elliptical will retain information from your previous
workout such as calories and distance for a few minutes.
You can clear this information by holding down the CLEAR
RESET button.

Console feedback

Your E7 provides you with the information you need for an
effective workout every time.

Time

There are two modes of time display. You can choose
either Count Up Mode or Count Down Mode for a
programed time limit.

Speed

This readout will display your speed in miles per hour.

Calories

The calories display will show the approximate number
of calories you burn during your workout. Your can also
program your elliptical to notify you when you have burned
a specific number of calories.

Top program a calorie countdown:

Turn on the console by pressing the RESET button. Press
the SHIFT button to cycle through the feedback windows
until CALORIES is displayed. Next, press the “+” button
until the desired number of calories are displayed. Then,
start pedaling. The CALORIES display will show your
specified calories counting backwards to zero. When you
have reached your goal, the console will beep until you
press the RESET button again.

HEART RATE

The HEART RATE display will show your heart rate in beats
per minute. During your workout, press the SHIFT button
until HEART RATE is displayed. Nex t, grasp the inner
upright handles with your palms on the heart rate sensors.
After 10 seconds your heart rate will be displayed and will
change as your heart rate changes. NOTE: Always consult
a physician before starting an exercise program. This will
be helpful in determining your target heart zone.

To operate in Count-Up Mode:

Simply get on the elliptical and start striding. The console
will automatically turn on and the time display will advance
from zero and keep time until you finish your workout.

To operate in Count-Down Mode:

Turn on the console by pressing the RESET button. Press
the SHIFT button to cycle through the feedback windows
until TIME is displayed. Next, press the “+” but ton until the
desired number of minutes of your workout is displayed.
Then, start pedaling. The TIME display will show your
specified time counting down to zero. When you have
reached your goal, the console will beep until you press the
RESET button again.

Distance

The DISTANCE display will show this amount of mileage
you have “traveled” in your workout. Keeping a record of
your progress is a great motivational tool. You can also
program the amount of distance you desire for your
workout:

To operate a specific distance:

Turn on the console by pressing the RESET button. Press
the SHIFT button to cycle through the feedback windows
until DISTANCE is displayed. Next, press the “+” button
until the desired distance for the workout is displayed.
Then, start pedaling. The DISTANCE display will show your
specified mileage counting backwards to zero. When you
have reached your goal, the console will beep until you
press the RESET button again.

Setting the main display window

The automatic display mode on your elliptical is set to
SCAN. In this mode, information from each of the feed back
windows is cycled. If you desire to keep one feed back
function on for quick reference, press the SHIFT button
until the feed back function you desire is displayed. When it
does, you will see your selected feedback information.

Turn the screen display off.

The elliptical console automatically shuts off after a few
minutes of inactivity.

5

Heart Rate Control

(only for the E7HRC)

CONSOLE

Main

LED readout

Program Function

Buttons

Calories and

Heart Rate

readout

Time, Weight,

Level, and

readout

Speed and

Distance

readout

Age

(BUTTON IDENTIFICATIONS ON P

1. 2. 5. 6. 3. 4.

AGE 3)

6

Heart Rate Control

(only for the E7HRC)

BUTTONS

Program Function Buttons

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Automatically shifts display information every 8 seconds, or
stays fixed on the information.

Start the program

Confirm Button

Pauses program, or hold for 3 seconds to CLEAR all
information to RESET.

Decrease the value of program / Select the program

6.

Increase the value of program / Select the program

7