Cardiovascular activities, such as running and riding the elliptical, are commonly used in weight loss efforts because they burn a significant number of calories per unit of time. To lose weight, you must burn more calories than you consume over a period of time, so burning the most calories while you exercise makes your time more efficient and facilitates your weight loss.
Function
Calories provide the energy that fuels your body's functions. Therefore, as you exercise, more energy is necessary to handle the increase in work. The amount of calories that you burn during any cardiovascular activity is dependent on numerous factors, such as sex, weight, body fat percentage and age, but the intensity of your exercise is a significant component as well; the harder your body has to work, the more calories used for fuel.
Elliptical
The elliptical machine is a popular choice for many, as not only does it effectively increase your heart rate and burn calories, but you can watch television or read while you're working out. Your legs, the largest muscles in your body, make the activity more intense as they propel the pedals forward. According to the Mayo Clinic, a 160-pound individual participating in an hour of low-impact aerobics, such as riding the elliptical machine, will burn approximately 365 calories per hour.
Running
Running requires little equipment and is the most efficient cardiovascular exercise when it comes to burning calories. The Mayo Clinic states that a 160-pound person who runs for an hour at eight miles per hour will burn 986 calories, nearly three times the amount on an elliptical machine. If you're unable to run for long periods, start with incorporating 10 minutes of running into your daily workout routine until you build up your endurance.
Special Circumstances
Although running is much more effective in burning calories per unit of time, keep in mind the activity that you enjoy doing. If you will be more consistent with your exercise routine by riding the elliptical machine instead of running, it would be a better choice. In addition, the elliptical machine is a non-impact activity, so those who are concerned with stress on their joints may be more comfortable choosing the less effective activity.
Considerations
The amount of calories that you burn while running is dependent upon whether you're running outside or on a treadmill. Running outside burns more calories, as your legs must propel you forward, instead of on a treadmill, where the ground moves under your feet. When possible, maximize your calorie burning by running outside.
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