Which Is Better Treadmill or Elliptical

Ellipticals and treadmills are two of the most popular cardio machines on gym floors today. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. This article is going to explore this debate a little more in depth to see which one actually comes out as king of the gym.

Significance

The main purpose of these two machines is to burn calories. As far as a health standpoint goes, the elliptical is definitely safer on the joints. So it is not uncommon for them to be frequented by people who have a limited range of motion or have had surgeries in the past.

Features

The treadmill operates by accelerating a wide track. It has hand rails for balance and a digital screen within arm's reach listing the speed, incline, time, mileage, type of workout and calories burned. The speed and incline can be adjusted accordingly, making it harder and more intense.

The elliptical machine has a set of handles and paddles where the feet are placed. It too has a digital screen with all the bells and whistles of the treadmill. This machine incorporates the arms and legs simultaneously swinging back and forth in unison. This helps to work the upper and lower body at the same time.

Function

From a calorie stand point, the elliptical and treadmill burn about the same exact amount. The big difference is the fact that there is no impact on joints with the elliptical. However, that does not necessarily mean it is better.

Another aspect to take into consideration is that the size of the elliptical can have an adverse effect on gait. Sometimes the distance between the pedals can vary. This can cause misalignment from different muscles overcompensating.

Effects

The effects of training on a treadmill or elliptical can also be very similar. It depends on how long the workout continues and it's intensity. Interval training is a common style of workout that has bouts of high intensity mixed in with lower intensity. This causes the body to incorporate more energy systems and also tends to increase metabolism for longer periods of time after the workout is over.

Theories/Speculation

The elliptical machine has a tendency to be momentum oriented. Being that the legs are alternating, going up and then down, quite a bit of momentum can be built up. This can detract from getting a good workout. It is also really easy to stop momentum altogether.

The treadmill is completely different. The legs are always lifting and the speed comes down at a slower pace. With that being said, it takes a lot more work.

Expert Insight

The real answer to the question of which is the better machine lies within the person. If joint problems and range of motion issues are prevalent then the elliptical is better. If a person is completely healthy, then it is her choice. But nut for bolt, there is no major difference between them and they are both very effective machines.