When choosing an exercise apparatus that's right for you, a treadmill or elliptical machine is an easy-to-utilize option that offers cardiovascular benefits that can be adjusted based on a person's ability. When evaluating whether an elliptical or treadmill is the best exercise apparatus for you, consider your overall exercise goals, current physical health and impact to your joints.
SIgnificance
A treadmill is an exercise machine that features a moving belt that imitates the action of walking or running outside. Most treadmills can be adjusted for incline and speed in order to increase the overall cardiovascular workout. An elliptical machine attempts to re-create the motions made when running, yet with a lower impact. The machine has platforms for the feet, and also may feature movable arms to give a more full-body workout. Like a treadmill, elliptical resistance can be adjusted in order to increase the muscle-building effects.
Considerations
Both elliptical machines and treadmills take some instruction with regard to practicing proper form to prevent injury and experience the best results. This is especially true for elliptical machines, as some have a tendency to put weight on the railings, which can cause injury and reduce the effectiveness of the workout, according to Rodale.com. Treadmills may be easier to use, particularly for those who are walking on the treadmill, which is a very natural action and doesn't take a significant amount of adjustment. However, just as a person must learn proper form when running, she must practice proper form when running on the treadmill in order to protect the knees.
Effects
A quality treadmill should feature a moving belt and platform that absorbs shock, reducing the overall impact on a person's knees. When a person runs, when the foot strikes the belt, the impact sends small shocks up the leg. These are mostly absorbed by the knee. For this reason, treadmills may not be best for those with bad knees or joint problems. By contrast, ellipticals are designed to limit the impact to the body because they don't require the foot to hit the ground.
Potential
In terms of calories burned, running on a treadmill can burn more calories than other pieces of exercise equipment--including an elliptical machine, according to Rodale.com. For example, running on a treadmill at 6 miles per hour for 30 minutes burns 320 calories; exercising on an elliptical machine for 30 minutes at 6 miles per hour burns roughly 248 calories, according to FitSugar.com.
Cost
In terms of the most basic model purchased, elliptical machines tend to be less expensive than treadmills. According to Rodale.com, the base price for an elliptical is over $100 while treadmills may cost $300 for a basic level. However, because of implications for shock absorption and ease on joints, it may be best to carefully examine the model to ensure it won't harm joints.
Member Comments