Working out indoors is ideal for most people as it is very convenient and comfortable. Both a treadmill and an elliptical trainer are great indoor machines that can burn calories, get your heart rate going, and improve your overall health. One topic that comes up a lot in discussions about home training is the treadmill vs elliptical debate. Both machines have their advantages, but there are a few key differences between the two.
Treadmills
If sales numbers are anything to go by, the treadmill wins the elliptical vs treadmill battle by a long shot. In 2009 treadmills made up 56% of all fitness sales. There are many advantages to treadmills.
First of all they can burn calories, increase bone density, and improve cardiovascular health. You can choose a number of cardio exercises including running, walking, or climbing at an incline. They also include computerized programs for different workouts and various levels of intensity. In addition, you can customize your workout to suit your personal specifications, including age, weight, height, and fitness level. The motorized belt ensures that you keep pushing ahead in order not to fall off the machine, meaning you can get a very intense lower body workout if you so choose. These machines are great for people who are training for races or marathons, or those who simply want a hard workout.
That being said, there are a few disadvantages of the treadmill. Firstly, the treadmill requires electricity, so it can eat into your power bill. Secondly, the treadmill can be quite hard on the joints as the exercise involves running and moving your feet to keep up with the machine. This is not so great for people who have joint problems. Finally, there is a risk of injury when using the treadmill as the parts are motorized, so they will not stop even if you do.
Ellipticals
Ellipticals are quickly becoming a very popular home exercise machine, as more and more people are seeing the benefits of this device.
Like a treadmill, an elliptical can burn calories, and get the heart pumping to improve cardiovascular health. Unlike the treadmill, an elliptical gets the whole body moving. Users stand on pedals and glide the feet in a back and forth motion, while gripping the handlebars and pushing the arms forward and backward. The motion is similar to that in cross-country skiing. This works both the upper and lower body. The elliptical machine is not motorized, so it requires no electricity and will stop moving whenever the user stops propelling it. This means the user can stop and take breaks if needed. This machine is excellent for those who want a more relaxed workout, or for people who have weak joints.
Of course, there are some downsides to the elliptical as well. Some people claim that the elliptical does not deliver as strong of a workout as a treadmill, and that it can be easy to get lazy with this machine. This means that users may not burn as many calories or as much fat as they would on a treadmill. That being said, users can opt to do an intense workout on an elliptical if they really want to.
In the treadmill vs elliptical battle, the decision really comes down to the individual. Both machines deliver great results for your health and your body. A treadmill is good for people who want an intense lower body workout, and want to be pushed to burn a lot of fat and calories. Marathon runners and those training for endurance events might want to consider this machine. An elliptical is better for those who want a gentler, whole body workout. Those who have weak joints or diminished muscle strength might opt for this machine. No matter which machine you choose, a home exercise machine can greatly improve your health and vitality.