Those looking to add diversity to their cardio routines need not look very far. At any gym or health and wellness center, plenty of machines can help patrons burn off calories and improve their endurance. For people who want to buy a machine, the choices seem endless. Two of the most popular types of cardio machines are the elliptical and indoor cycle or stationary bike. Knowing how the two compare can bring you closer to determining which can help better accomplish your training goals.
Stationary Bike
The stationary bike allows users to simulate the cycling experience without going outdoors. Some are high-tech machines with computers that log your distance and calories burned; others are more basic, with just a knob that is used to increase resistance. They often have a fixed gear and the bike wheels keep moving until you apply the brake, making the workout more consistent the longer you ride.
The Elliptical
An elliptical, also called a cross trainer, is an exercise machine that is named for the oval-shaped path that the pedals follow when the machine is in use. Ellipticals often have an arm component that makes using the machine similar to cross-country skiing. All ellipticals allow users to control the resistance, and fancier models include more features such as incline and stride length.
Similarities
Both are designed to increase heart rate and provide cardiovascular training. In short, they will both make the user sweat. In addition, they are both low-impact options that spare the joints and carry a much lower risk of injury than other higher-impact cardio activities such as running or jogging. On the negative side, neither is very portable, but they are both very common and likely to be found in any gym. For a person who is looking for a way to burn calories and avoid knees injuries, they are both great options.
Cycle Pros and Cons
The cycle works just the lower body. While you can burn lots of calories riding one, it will feel more intense than the elliptical until you become more conditioned. The big plus is the availability of organized classes. The classes are intense workout classes done on the bike. Many people enjoy the social atmosphere and find the intensity of their fellow exercisers and instructor motivating.
Elliptical Pros and Cons
An elliptical machine with an arm component incorporates both the upper and lower body, resulting in a complete workout that engages more muscles. Also, differences in incline and resistance, compounded with the total body engagement of muscle, means that users can burn more calories with seemingly less effort. On the negative side, using the elliptical can be a solitary affair, as there are no elliptical classes.
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