Ellipticals and treadmills are two popular cardio machines found in gyms and homes. Both machines will help your burn calories, tone muscle, and exercise your heart and lungs. Before choosing one, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each machine.
Treadmill Pros
The treadmill offers a walking, jogging and running experience to its user. This will help beginners start slow or help a dedicated runner train for a marathon. The surface of a treadmill is more forgiving than pounding concrete or asphalt, so it's easier on your joints, says FitSugar.com. Most treadmills have an incline setting that can help you burn more calories and tone your legs and glutes. Also, most treadmills have a space-saving design that allows you to fold it up and store it under a bed or in a closet.
Treadmill Cons
The treadmill has a cushioned surface, but is still considered a high-impact exercise. Those with lower-body injuries could find the jolt from walking or jogging to be uncomfortable. Also, older adults with balance problems may find the continuous motion of the treadmill to be difficult.
Elliptical Pros
The elliptical trainer offers a full-body workout when you utilize the foot pedals and handlebars. Using an elliptical machine is less stressful on your knees, hips and back than is running on a treadmill, says MayoClinic.com. Furthermore, the elliptical can train different muscle groups when you pedal in reverse.
Elliptical Cons
The elliptical machine forces a jogging or running motion that doesn't leave much room for beginners. The pace may cause first-time users to get winded easily and leave them unable to exercise for a prolonged period of time. Also, elliptical trainers are bulky machines, so they need a large space in your home.
Comparison
The treadmill is geared toward people of all fitness levels while the elliptical isn't as versatile. The elliptical offers less impact to its users while the treadmill is high impact on the bones and joints. Both are priced in the same general price range, $400 to $1,000, for a good model to use in your home. If possible, it's best to include both into your fitness regimen so that you may reap the benefits of each machine. The variety will help you continue to see results and look forward to working out.
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