Treadmills -- whether manual or electric -- offer an easy workout option that you can do indoors during cold, hot or otherwise unpleasant weather. On any kind of treadmill, you can walk, jog or run on a moving belt that provides a greater degree of shock absorption than running outside on a hard surface such as a sidewalk. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
Action
An electric treadmill plugs into a power outlet, and the treadmill belt moves at whichever speed you choose. A manual treadmill, by contrast, is powered by your own physical motions -- arm-operated levers cause the treadmill belt to move. Therefore, a manual treadmill requires you to work out your upper body as well as your lower body for the belt to run. On an electric treadmill, your hands are free, and you are working out primarily your lower body.
Speed
Controlling and maintaining a consistent speed is much easier on an electric treadmill than on a manual machine. Manual treadmills are typically quite difficult to accelerate, control and stop. With most electric treadmills, you can easily set the speed at which you want the belt to move. Some electric treadmills offer pre-programmed workouts designed specifically for weight loss or other fitness goals. The issues with speed, combined with the generally greater sturdiness of an electric treadmill, mean an electric treadmill is best for running and a manual treadmill works best for walking.
Cross-Training
Manual treadmills exercise the muscles in your arms and upper body as well as your legs and lower body, so working out on a manual treadmill is similar to cross-training on an elliptical machine in terms of using your whole body. On an electric treadmill, you would have to hold weights in your hands while working out to achieve a similar workout of your arms and upper body. However, because electric treadmills can typically go faster than manual machines, you can burn more calories overall during an electric treadmill workout.
Cost
Manual treadmills are cheaper to purchase than electric treadmills, although they are also typically smaller and less sturdy. Manual treadmills sometimes have a smaller belt area than electric treadmills, which might make a manual treadmill uncomfortable if you have a long stride. However, the storage space required for a manual treadmill is smaller than for an electric machine, which is a benefit if you have limited space at home for exercise equipment. Additionally, the manual treadmill has lower operating costs, as it does not use electrical power.
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