Running Vs. Ski Machines

The American Council on Exercise recommends healthy adults under the age of 65 take part in moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days a week to maintain health. Exercise machines like the ski and running machines can be a convenient way to achieve this in your home or at a gym. Both machines are different in how they work your muscles and both can be useful additions to your exercise routine.

Running Machine Types

A running machine uses a moving belt on which you walk or run. They can either be electric or manual. In the case of a manual running machine, you move the belt by walking or running on it. If you want to increase the incline, you have to get off and do it manually. Electric running machines do these things automatically and can be set according to your preferences before and during your workout. Some running machines allow you to measure your heart rate by placing your hands on sensors as you walk or run.

Ski Machine Types

Ski machines are electric and come in two main types. Cross-country ski machines simulate the action of cross country skiing and provide full-body workouts. The other type of ski machine simulates the downward side-to-side motion of downhill skiing and provides a general aerobic workout.

Running Machine Pros and Cons

Running machines allow you to improve your cardiovascular fitness while working on the lower body, specifically the hamstrings, quadriceps and calves. Running has a high impact on your knees and hips, however, so it may not be suitable for you if you have joint problems. If your running gait is slightly off center, you can end up pushing the belt toward one side, increasing the chance of injury and potentially damaging the belt of the running machine.

A 140-lb. woman will burn 506 calories running at a moderate speed on a running machine for one hour. A 200-lb. woman will burn approximately 723 calories at the same speed and intensity. The more you weigh, the more calories you burn at a set intensity. The higher the intensity of your workout, the more calories you will burn.

Ski Machine Pros and Cons

Ski machines work the upper body simultaneously with the lower body in a smooth, consistent action. The fact that your feet do not leave the steps of the machine, but rather stay in place and are moved with the action of the machine, means that there is no impact on the joints. As one leg moves forward, the other moves back in a gliding motion, while the opposite arms are also moved simultaneously. In 1992, Olympic athelete Bob Kempainen had an injury that meant that he could not run. He used a ski machine as a part of his recovery for six months and was able to compete again in the Olympics. Ski machines do, however, require some coordination. If you are not the most coordinated individual, it may take a while for your body to get used to the synchronized leg and arm movements.

A 140-lb. woman will burn approximately 602 calories in an hour on a ski machine working at a moderate intensity. A 200-lb. woman will burn 860 calories in one hour on a ski machine at the same intensity.