Information about treadmills vs elliptical trainers

Treadmill vs Elliptical - Which One Should You Buy?


One of the most common debates is which is better for weight loss an elliptical trainer or treadmill.

Are More Calories Burned On An Elliptical Trainer Or Treadmill?

On a positive note both machines will give you a cardio workout, each one has its own advantages when it comes to a weight loss program. Overall it is believe that an elliptical trainer will burn more calories(with equal effort put into it by the user). The reason for this is that an elliptical trainer will work out the upper body as well as the lower body where a treadmill primarily works only the lower body.

Advantages Of A Treadmill

The main advantage of a treadmill is how versatile of a machine it is. It allows a person to jog, run or walk in the same spot, on a “conveyor” type belt. Some treadmills have programs that let you choose a level that fits your particular needs. Usually they have heart monitors, calorie counters, and timers on them as well.

For a slightly more intense workout you can even adjust the incline to simulate running or walking up hill.

Advantages Of An Elliptical Trainer

The other exercise machine that is becoming very popular is the elliptical trainer. Unlike the treadmill, the elliptical trainer is low impact and easy on the joints and back.

The benefits of a lower impact is great for someone who has joint issues or knee pain. Elliptical trainers allow you to somewhat “float” as you feet do not leave the foot rest, where on a treadmill your feet rise off the machine and strike it again(in a normal running or walking motion).

Determining how to choose and elliptical trainer first you should view elliptical trainers ratings or elliptical trainer reviews

The Verdict Is In

Now the questions that everyone is asking is treadmill vs elliptical? Which machine burns more calories? Which machine is more effective on the muscles? Of course, the manufacturers that build treadmills claim that that their product is better and vice versa.

The treadmill vs elliptical trainer during exercise is very obvious: The elliptical trainer is built for smooth natural motion. The machine has foot pedals that have contact at all times with the feet as they walk, jog and run. While running, walking and jogging on the treadmill, however, the feet have to come off the surface and then come back down hard returning to the surface causing high impact to the ankles, knees and hips.

The bottom line is that both machines offer great benefits to working out, if you actual use either machine it will do wonders for your health and overall fitness.

Honestly, it turns into a personal preference at this point and you have to decide which of the two machines fits your personal needs more. If a person enjoys one over the other then it would definitely be beneficial to purchase the preferred one to keep the interest in exercise on going.

Recommended Elliptical Trainer Companies:

Schwinn Elliptical Trainers
Nordictrack Elliptical Trainer

Treadmill vs Elliptical Resources