When choosing a cardiovascular exercise machine, you must consider your goals, physical limitations and preferences. The elliptical machine and the stationary bike both offer a low impact way to train your heart rate and burn calories. Ultimately, select the machine that you enjoy the most so you are more likely to stick to your routine.
Elliptical Machines
An elliptical machine allows you to use similar muscle mechanics as walking or running, without the impact. An elliptical consists of two pedals attached to a gliding rail that may be raised at various levels of incline. Some ellipticals come with arm poles so you can work your upper body along with your legs. The intensity of an elliptical workout depends on where you set the resistance against which you pedal, the height of the ramp and the speed at which you move your legs.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes are available as traditional upright or recumbent models. Stationary bikes have a button that allows you to adjust your resistance to simulate hills and make your pedal stroke harder. While upright bikes look like regular outdoor bikes, recumbent stationary bikes feature a more comfortable bucket seat and back support.
Cost and Size
Ellipticals tend to be much higher priced than stationary bicycles of comparable quality. If you are looking for a machine for your home gym, consider how much space you have available. According to the American Council on Exercise, you need to allocate about 30 square feet of space for an elliptical, while a stationary bike requires just 10 square feet.
Considerations
Both ellipticals and stationary bikes are considered low-impact exercises that do not put excessive pressure on the joints. The elliptical does require you to stand and bear weight to perform the exercise, which some overweight people may find uncomfortable. Both machines accommodate multiple fitness levels because you adjust the resistance and speed of movement. Bicycling is a movement most people can do, while the elliptical machine's pedaling may take some practice. You burn more calories working out on an elliptical machine. According to the Health Status website, a 150-pound person burns about 300 calories in 30 minutes of hard elliptical pedaling, but burns only about 200 calories on a stationary cycle.
Decision
Before committing to either machine, try them out on a showroom floor or in a fitness center. If you have access to both pieces of equipment, cross train between them to challenge different muscle groups and prevent boredom. If you do suffer from back pain or balance problems, a recumbent stationary bike is probably your best choice.
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