Elliptical machines are standard at gyms across the country and running is a classic cardiovascular exercise for those looking to build endurance and burn calories. You may wonder which one provides more benefits. The answer lies in your goals for your workout, your personal issues with injuries -- and your preference. For some, elliptical machines are a better choice, while for others, running makes more sense.
Elliptical Machines
Both standing elliptical machines and recumbent elliptical bikes provide a low-impact workout for those who have chronic issues with their ankle or knee joints and those who are recovering from injury no matter how fast or hard you workout. Elliptical machines often also offer the benefit of including your arms in the workout through pumping arm levers; in some cases, it is even possible to use only your arms to move the machines – rather than the standing, floating platforms – and still burn calories.
Running
Whether you opt to run on a treadmill or outside, running is a high impact exercise. Regular practice can build stamina and increase your ability to run longer distances at a faster pace as well as boost your metabolism and burn calories. Muscle stability and bone strength also improve when you run regularly; the impact of your legs on the running surface stimulates the bone cells to regenerate and the tendons and muscles to adjust by getting stronger.
Similarities
Both running and elliptical machines provide you with cardiovascular benefit, working your heart and increasing blood flow and the delivery of oxygen to organs throughout your body. Both also focus on the development and use of large muscles like your quads, hamstrings, glutes, hips, and calves, which warm you up quickly and help you burn more calories. They both also provide increased balance and stability as you get stronger, as well as promote weight loss when combined with a healthy diet.
Differences
If you are interested in running in marathons, decreasing your time to run the mile, or prefer to be outdoors, then running is definitely the best choice for your cardio workout. However, even with proper shoes and a flat running surface, injuries to ankle joints and knees are common when running due to the repeated motion of the weight-bearing activity. If you have leg, ankle, or knee injuries, or if you prefer to workout inside away from the elements, then using elliptical recumbent bikes or elliptical machines can help you get a solid cardiovascular workout with minimal impact. You can choose either workout or both -- to add variety to your exercise regimen.
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