When you are trying to decide between which type of cardiovascular exercise machine to use, your top contenders are likely to be treadmills and elliptical cross-trainers. Treadmills use a movable belt to allow you an indoor surface to walk, jog or run on. When riding an elliptical, you push foot pedals in an elliptical manner while pumping your arms by holding to attached poles. Both machines have their advantages and disadvantages.
Low Impact
Elliptical machines have a few advantages over treadmills. One of the main benefits of an elliptical is that you put less stress on the joints during use than jogging or running on a treadmill. If you have bad knees, hip or back problems, an elliptical is likely to be a better choice since it provides a low impact workout. Also, arthritis sufferers will find the elliptical less stressful on their damaged and painful joints.
Muscles Worked
An elliptical machine works more muscle groups than the treadmill. An upper body workout is achieved by pumping the arms back and forth. Also, elliptical machines allow you to pedal in reverse during your exercise session. This works more muscles in the lower body than forward motion alone.
Posture
Elliptical machines also encourage the user to practice good form when exercising. If you are holding the poles, you lift the body in an upright position instead of slumping forward. According to Dr. Angela Smith, an orthopedic surgeon in Philadelphia, this allows you to work the muscles in the most favorable way.
Considerations
Keep in mind that treadmills can provide just as good of a cardiovascular workout as an elliptical machine. If you are training for a race or marathon, the treadmill may be preferred since it simulates running. Also, the treadmill forces you to work harder since you are not controlling the pace like an elliptical machine. However, keep in mind that most treadmills cost more than elliptical trainers.
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