Treadmills and elliptical trainers are the two most popular cardio machines. They can be found at any health club and purchased at local retail stores or online. To decide which one is best for you, consider the pros and cons of each machine.
Treadmill Pros
The treadmill is suitable for beginners because the speed can be adjusted for their fitness level. As time goes on, the speed or incline can be increased to challenge the body further. Dedicated joggers or runners will find the treadmill to be a better choice because they have the ability to run indoors in the colder season. The treadmill is also an excellent tool for runners training for a marathon or sprints as they can customize their training regimen to fit their needs.
Treadmill Cons
Running is a high-impact activity, and the continuous pounding of your feet on the machine belt can stress the joints over time, says DailyHerald.com. Older adults with balance issues could find the continuous movement of the treadmill to be too challenging.
Elliptical Pros
Elliptical trainers appeal to people looking to protect their bones and joints from the jolt of high-impact exercise. If you use an elliptical machine, remember to maintain good posture for the most effective workout, says MayoClinic.com. Another advantage of the elliptical machine is that it can be pedaled in reverse which works different muscles. Elliptical trainers also provide a full-body workout because you can get your arms involved by using the handle bars.
Elliptical Cons
The elliptical machine forces a jogging movement even though it's in a gliding fashion. Beginners tend to get winded easily on the elliptical trainer because of its faster pace. For some exercisers the width of the foot pedals is uncomfortable and doesn't feel natural.
Choosing One
Most elliptical trainers offer a full-body workout when grasping the handlebars and moving the foot pedals, as opposed to treadmills that focus on the lower body as they simulate a jog. Also, treadmills usually have a space-saving design to them as they can be folded up, unlike the bulky size of an elliptical. Both machines burn similar total calories, ranging between 500 and 900 calories per hour. Also, take into consideration the price of each machine. In 2010, treadmills retail anywhere from $300 to $1,000 and elliptical trainers range from $400 to $1,200. Once you decide which machine suits your needs, you can begin to pursue your fitness goals.
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