Treadmill vs EllipticalGood question, as buying either can be an expensive investment and you want the machine best suited to your individual needs. For a long time treadmills have ruled the roost as the number one piece of cardio equipment. Elliptical trainers are a much more recent innovation but have steadilly gained in popularity. So both have their merits - is one better than the other?
Treadmill vs Elliptical Trainer - For and Against...
The main difference between both machines is the impact that using them causes. Walking and running are impact exercises, so no matter how well cushioned the deck there will be some impact with a treadmill.Elliptical trainers cause minimal impact on the lower body joints. If you've a problem with conditions like shin splints, sore hips or knees, lower back problems then ellipticals are less likely to aggravate them. Another difference is the perceived level of effort that each machine causes. Running on a treadmill feels like harder work than using an elliptical. If you want to feel like you've had a tough workout then for the same level of exertion a treadmill is preferable. However, all things being equal both machines result in a similar calorie burn - it's just that the perceived effort on an elliptical trainer tends to be less.
The combination of an upper and lower body workout in one makes ellipticals a favoured option for some people when considering a treadmill vs elliptical trainer. However, walking and running are very natural movements that your body is perfectly designed for. Using an elliptical trainer can feel awkward at first and some people never really get used to it. Ellipticals tend to be more flexible in other areas too. There's the option of a forward or reverse motion on the pedals. One stresses the hamstrings, the other the quadriceps. As a result, you potentially get more of a whole leg workout due to the different ways that you can stress your leg muscles. Cost is also a factor as pound for pound, treadmills cost more than elliptical trainers. This is largely due to relatively expensive components like the motors and decks on treadmills. Expect to pay several hundred dollars more for a treadmill than an elliptical trainer of equivalent quality.
Treadmill vs Elliptical Trainer - The Verdict...?Well, both treadmills and ellipticals have their advantages but in the final analysis I'm going to sit on the fence!Both offer an excellent aerobic workout and convey similar cardiovascular benefits. Ultimately it boils down to your personal preference - you're not going to go wrong whichever you choose. Try them both and make your decison based on the machine that feels the most comfortable and best meets your fitness needs!
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Ellipticals also offer a whole body workout as most come with upper body levers - like ski poles. With treadmills you're working your lower body only.
