Elliptical machines and treadmills are two of the most popular pieces of workout equipment in 2010. Both improve cardiovascular health and tone the body. But each machine holds different advantages depending on individual needs and limitations.
Advantages of Elliptical Trainers
Elliptical trainers provide a complete low-impact upper and lower body workout that is especially beneficial to someone with arthritis, joint problems or a bad back. They also provide a dual-action motion, the backward stride. This allows for toning of more muscle groups than the traditional forward-only stride of the treadmill.
Advantages of Treadmills
Treadmills allow for year-round running or walking regardless of weather conditions and are gentler on the runner's body than asphalt and concrete. Treadmills provide the weight-bearing exercise you need to build strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.
Sample Elliptical Workout
A complete elliptical workout includes five minutes of warm-up at an easy pace, 10 minutes at a moderate pace alternating between forward and backward strides, 10 minutes at an intense pace and a five-minute cool-down. Add variety by alternating between two minutes of intense training and two minutes of moderate training in the middle of the workout. Plan to use the elliptical trainer for at least 30 minutes three to five times per week.
Sample Treadmill Workout
A complete workout includes a five-minute warm-up at zero incline, 10 minutes at a 3.5 incline, five minutes at a 5.5 incline, five minutes at a 3.5 incline and a five-minute cool-down at zero incline. Vary your speed based on your walking or running preferences. Plan to work out on the treadmill for at least 30 minutes three to five times per week.
Effectiveness
Both elliptical machines and treadmills provide workouts that offer the benefits of regular exercise besides muscle toning and cardiovascular conditioning: improving mood, combating chronic disease and managing weight. Mile for mile, the two workouts burn approximately the same number of calories.
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