Just like wine, chocolate and cheese, many people have a personal preference when it comes to cardio machines. A treadmill is perfect for runners and walkers alike, while an elliptical machine provides a low-impact, full-body workout. According to MayoClinic.com, both machines are a good choice for a cardiovascular workout. To burn the most calories, push yourself to withstand a moderate- to high- intensity pace and add challenges such as an incline.
Treadmills
Whether you are a casual walker or a 10k pro, treadmills come with many features to suit your physical capabilities and workout needs. Many offer preprogrammed workouts as well as the ability to download real-life running paths found around the world. When compared to concrete and other outdoor running surface, a treadmill's belt is less impactful on your bones and joints. Other features may include a heart-rate monitor and timer.
Elliptical Machine
Similar to treadmills, users can choose to either walk or run on an elliptical machine. Elliptical machines may also feature preprogrammed workouts and the ability to download real-life running paths. One major difference between the two is that elliptical machines feature moveable arms that work out your upper body muscles. Most elliptical machines may also provide the ability to walk or run backwards, working your back leg muscles more completely than a treadmill. Compared to a treadmill, an elliptical machine is also more gentle on your bones and joints.
Calories
The amount of calories you burn depends on many factors including your age, weight, gender and the time and intensity of the workout. Users that weigh more than their ideal bodyweight, for example, may burn more calories than those that weigh close to their ideal bodyweight. Both the treadmill and elliptical machine help users burn a lot of calories. According to FitSugar, a 135-lb. woman may burn up to 320 calories on a treadmill and 248 calories on an elliptical machine in 30 minutes while running at a 6 mph pace.
Other Considerations
Whether you choose a treadmill or an elliptical machine, increase the intensity of your workout and incorporate inclines as well as various speeds to burn the maximum amount of calories. If you are new to exercise, start your workout at an easier pace until your fitness levels improve. As your fitness levels improve, increase the intensity and incorporate interval training, which includes spending 30 seconds to one minute of running or walking at full speed every five or 10 minutes.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Are Elliptical Machines Better Than Treadmills for Basic Aerobic Workouts?; Edward R. Laskowski
- 3FatChicks; Which Burns More Calories: Elliptical Trainer vs. Treadmill?; April 2010
- Spine-Health; Treadmills for Exercise and Pain Relief; Megan Tyner
- FitSugar; Elliptical vs. Treadmill; February 2008
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