Elliptical Vs. Treadmill
From LoveToKnow Exercise
It’s the constant debate between elliptical vs. treadmill when it comes to choosing a quality piece of exercise equipment. Read on to discover the positives of both, and get a great comparison in mind before you make a purchase.
Pros of an Elliptical Trainer
Ellipticals have become very popular in recent years, showing up in every member’s gym, as well as in many home workout areas. They are continually growing in popularity, and some may argue they are threatening the extinction of treadmills.
One of the pros of an elliptical machine is they fit in very well with today’s busy lifestyles. Since they are able to adequately exercise the upper and lower body simultaneously, many people can commit to a small 20 minute workout, while still yielding adequate results. Time-saving machines are a big draw for those of us who are working overtime, raising families, and find ourselves with jam-packed days. Most people can justify the purchase of an elliptical machine when they are given the time-saving speech at the sporting goods store.
Ellipticals are also popular due to their low-impact demands. Senior citizens can successfully use an elliptical machine, and it also is beneficial for athletes recovering from a recent injury. While some require a high-impact workout to stay fit and challenged, for many individuals, a low impact machine is ideal. Lastly, working out on an elliptical strengthens your heart, reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other devastating illnesses.
Pros of a Treadmill
Faithful to exercise enthusiasts for years, the treadmill has enjoyed a long run as the leader of the pack when it comes to workout equipment. One huge benefit to a treadmill is the fact your exercise routine is unaffected by weather. If you are a walker, jogger or runner, you don’t need to depend on a sunny day to get in your daily workout. Your treadmill is right there waiting for you in the living room.
Treadmills are also easier on the body than an aerobics class or a traditional jog around the block. They are sprung with a shock absorbent surface that is much kinder on your joints than other forms of exercise.
A treadmill also adds variety to a workout regime. With adjustable speeds and inclines, you can run on different “landscapes” without ever leaving the house. This keeps the fitness enthusiast continually challenged, and the body primed and in top condition.
Lastly, many of today’s treadmills include some sort of calorie counter, so you can keep track of what you’ve burned during your workout, while encouraging yourself to keep going.
Elliptical Vs. Treadmill Workouts
With the above points made, it may seem there is no difference between an elliptical and a treadmill. However, many individuals will find they are much more successful in their weight loss goals on one and not the other.
Those who want a genuine training experience will far prefer the treadmill. The growing trend of running marathons have kept the treadmill in business, as there is just no other way to get an adequate training. However, if you are looking for overall fitness and health, you will definitely be sold on an elliptical. With dual handlebars and pedals, your whole body is thrown into an elliptical regime, rather than just your legs.
This fact has caused the elliptical to forge ahead in the exercise world, and has encouraged manufacturers to not only match the treadmills abilities, but beat it with extra features. Ellipticals are becoming more varied in their abilities, adding for a more diverse workout, which as mentioned above, has always been a big treadmill pull. The more advanced the elliptical becomes, the less the treadmill has to offer.
In short, if you are a traditionalist looking for a good old fashioned training, the treadmill will still be your number one option. However, if you are into cutting edge fitness and overall health and endurance, the elliptical will win your heart.
The elliptical vs. treadmill struggle will continue for another generation as young people hit the gyms and seniors look for at home options. Only time will tell which will survive as the fitness victor..
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Comments
Thanks for your contribution, dragon. That's definitely something to consider.
-- Contributed by: Misty KaramIt should also be mentioned that a using a treadmill is a weight bearing exercise that will help keep bones strong and an elliptical machine is not. I was told by my doctor to opt for the treadmill for bone density.
-- Contributed by: dragon123
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