While treadmills are the most popular exercise machine in the U.S., according to "Consumer Reports," many people choose elliptical trainers as their go-to machines for cardiovascular exercise as well. Both machines help get your body moving, your heart rate up and are suitable for daily physical activity. Choosing one machine over the other is largely a matter of personal preference, though there are several differences between the two that may make an elliptical or a treadmill the better choice for you.
Joints
Walking, jogging or running on a treadmill is similar to performing the same activities on a track or flat ground. While a treadmill removes the risk of uneven terrain that can increase the risk of injury when walking or running outside, the stress on your joints, namely your ankles, knees and hips, is the same. An elliptical uses pedals that cycle in an oval pattern, removing the stress from your joints. While a treadmill may be a good choice for someone who is in relatively good physical shape since impact helps strengthen the bones, people with arthritis or other joint problems can get a similar aerobic workout on an elliptical in a low-impact way.
Muscles
Using an elliptical in the forward pedaling position works many of the same muscles as walking or running on a treadmill. Elliptical machines usually offer varying levels of resistance, making them more useful for toning the lower body muscles than treadmills are. Elliptical trainers also usually feature movable handles to engage arms, chest and shoulders and allow the user to pedal backward to work different muscles in the legs and buttocks.
Space
Treadmills and elliptical machines can take up a considerable amount of space, particularly for quality units. Treadmills are often longer than ellipticals to accommodate for longer, running strides. Elliptical machines are often wider than treadmills to stabilize the base since your body weight tends to shift from one side to the other while pedaling.
Other Considerations
Elliptical machines can be difficult for some people to get going, particularly elderly people or those with weaker leg muscles since the pedals require a considerable amount of forward momentum to start moving. Treadmills are a better choice if you plan on training for long-distance outside running or sprinting since the belt surface is closer to natural ground and engages the same muscles you will use when running outside. Both machines can cost between $1,000 and $4,000 for a quality model, so taking all factors into consideration before purchasing one or the other will help you make the wisest investment for your physical needs and goals.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Elliptical Machines: Better Than Treadmills?; Edward R. Laskowski, M.D.
- Spine-Health; Treadmills for Exercise and Pain Relief; Megan Tyner, ACE; May 2007
- Spine-Health; Elliptical Trainer; Megan Tyner, ACE; May 2007
- Consumer Reports Health.org: Best Treadmills; December 2010
- Consumer Reports Health.org: Best Ellipticals; December 2010
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