Stationary Bikes Compared To Ellipticals For Fat Loss

Stationary Bikes Compared to Ellipticals for Fat Loss

Jun 30, 2010 | By Dustin Bogle

Stationary bikes and elliptical trainers are two popular exercise machines. They are designed to give the user different types of workouts. Consider the pros and cons of each machine to decide which suits your lifestyle and fitness goals.

Elliptical Pros

Elliptical trainers are low-impact machines, which means they don't stress sensitive parts of the body such as the knees, ankles and feet. With elliptical fitness machines, there is significant training of your quadriceps, hamstrings, gluts, chest, back, triceps, and biceps, says ArticleAlley.com. The use of all your major muscles groups creates a large number of total calories burned.

Elliptical Cons

One major drawback of the elliptical machine is that it is more costly than other cardio machines. The running motion also makes it difficult for beginners to maintain. Test yourself on an elliptical and if you can only last five to 10 minutes, then it's advisable that you use a stationary bike.

Stationary Bike Pros

Stationary bikes are built in recumbent and upright styles. The upright bike simulates a mountain bike and the recumbent bike resembles biking in a reclined position with back support. The stationary bike requires less effort then an elliptical trainer, which means that you can spend more time on a bike. This will build up endurance because you can exercise for a longer period of time. Also, the stationary bike will build up the quadriceps and calves if the resistance is increased. This is a helpful tool if you are trying to tone your legs.

Stationary Bike Cons

Exercising in the sitting position can be a positive for some people, but unfortunately that's where most of the drawbacks can be found. Exercising on a stationary bike isn't weight-bearing which means your body weight isn't supported by your legs. Weight bearing cardio will create a greater calorie burn and elevate your heart rate higher than non-weight bearing exercises.

Comparison

Stationary bikes are less bulky then elliptical trainers and usually more portable, as well. Stationary bikes are less expensive then elliptical machines as well. However, you burn more calories when exercising upright, so the bike will burn far fewer calories. In fact, you'll burn 148 calories on a stationary bike after 30 minutes, says FitSugar.com.