Treadmills and orbital rowing machines are both exercise equipment pieces that offer cardiovascular workouts. Both come in various shapes, sizes and sophistication levels that offer options on resistance levels and user statistics. Knowing what each machine can do for your desired exercise routine can go a long way in determining which machine is right for you.
Treadmill Basics
A treadmill allows its user to walk, jog or run. Every treadmill has the same core components: a motor, flywheel frame, display console, deck, belt and rollers. Motors run anywhere from 1.5 to 3.0 horsepower while the flywheel keeps the belt at a steady speed and rate. The frame holds the treadmill together and the rollers keep the belt moving. The treadmill's deck provides shock absorption for the user while the belt varies in size and width depending on the treadmill's purpose.
Orbital Machine Basics
The orbital rowing machine's function is to simulate the act of rowing a boat on a body of water. They are generally compact, with some of them little more than a bench to sit on, rests for the feet and gripped bars that replace the actual oars of a boat. Some orbital machines use air to provide the resistance while others do so with pulleys, flywheels or cables. Some newer models actually use water in a drum to provide the resistance. Most models come with an electronic component that provides helpful statistics on each workout session.
Treadmill Pros and Cons
One of the top selling points of treadmills is that the higher-end models can be adjusted to various speeds and inclines, allowing you to build up your stamina over time from walking on flat ground to jogging or running on a sharp incline. The downside is that you should decide if you want to jog or run on a treadmill before purchase, as you will need a model with a longer belt. Trying to run on a treadmill meant for walking will wear its parts out quicker and could lead to injury. Tripping or slipping while on a treadmill can lead to injury. In 1999, Major League Baseball player Moises Alou fell on a treadmill, tore his left anterior-cruciate ligament and missed the entire season. Another negative is that there is little room for cross-training with a treadmill as the workout is purely cardiovascular.
Orbital Machine Pros and Cons
Orbital rowing machines have the built-in positive of providing two workouts at once -- both cardiovascular exercise and strength and tone building by working the biceps, triceps, back and other key areas. The biggest potential negative comes from potential misuse of the machine. Because it simulates rowing a boat, the machine requires you to lean forward while you row. Doing this incorrectly can put pressure on the lower back that can lead to pain and, ultimately, injury.
Prices
As of November 2010, treadmills start at around $500 and can go up to $4,700 for models used in health clubs that take heavy beatings from multiple users. Orbital machines range between $300 and $2,400.
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