Many people who enter a gym are torn between the three most popular cardio machines: the treadmill, the elliptical and the stationary bike. All three cardio machines have something to offer the user, but only one may be right for you. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each machine to decide which one suits your lifestyle best.
Elliptical Pros
The elliptical machine offers a high-intensity, full-body workout when you combine the foot pedals and handle bars. The elliptical machine is smooth as it glides your body through a simulated jogging or running motion. Using an elliptical machine is less stressful on your knees, hips and back than is running on a treadmill, says MayoClinic.com. The elliptical offers a great cardio workout to anyone with lower-body injuries or who wants more cardio variety in his regimen.
Treadmill Pros
The treadmill emulates a walking, jogging, running or hiking experience. The different variables, speed and incline, that can be set on a treadmill allow you to add plenty of variety to your workouts. Researchers found that treadmill workouts burn more calories than workouts on a stationary bike, stair climber, indoor rowing machine or other aerobic exercise equipment, says MyOptumHealth.com. Also, treadmills are a great way to exercise when the weather outside is not conducive to outdoor exercise.
Stationary Bike Pros
The stationary bike is a low-impact cardio machine that is offered in upright and recumbent styles. The settings are user-friendly and allow you to adjust the distance, time or resistance. Stationary bikes are recommended for beginners or those with lower-body injuries. It requires less overall body exertion than a treadmill or elliptical trainer, but allows for longer workout sessions.
Cons of Each Machine
Each of these cardio machines has drawbacks. The treadmill burns a large amount of calories, but it is high impact and can strain bones and joints. The elliptical trainer is low impact, but the full-body motion may be too difficult for beginners. The stationary bike burns fewer calories than the previous two machines, but builds endurance and stamina through longer cardio sessions.
Comparison
All three of these cardio machines will burn calories and exercise your heart and lungs. The treadmill requires the most intensity and burns the most calories, but the elliptical and bike are low impact, which will alleviate future injuries. If possible, include all three into your cardio routine to reap the benefits of each machine.
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