Elliptical Machines versus Treadmills

Which is the better machine, treadmills versus elliptical trainers?

Both are excellent for indoor workouts. When you compare the two though, you quickly realize that ellipticals have only come onto the scene recently, but treadmills have hung around for a much longer time. Treadmills are more commonplace because of this. But before you run out and buy a home treadmill, you should take a second look at elliptical machines.

Elliptical machines are low impact. As a result, the knees and ankles do not suffer any abuse. While the treadmill mat is better than cement for your joints, the impact is still significant.

One point in favor of treadmills is the fact that it provides a better experience for a dedicated runner/jogger than an elliptical trainer. If you are training for a long distance event, and you don't want to be outdoors during the hot or cold months, you will definitely be happier with a good treadmill.

On the other hand, if you seek a good, intensive cardio workout with the greatest efficiency, an elliptical machine cannot be overlooked. Some models of elliptical machines give you a total body workout, considering that it has dual action handlebars for your arms.

Treadmills focus on the lower body with jogging simulation. According to recent studies, the low impact on the joints allows the elliptical machine user to burn calories at the same rate as a treadmill user, with the impression of less effort.

So it is no surprise that ellipticals have become the exercise machine of choice for older exercisers with chronic joint problems. Physical trainers who are involved in rehabilitation programs with patients also choose elliptical trainers over treadmills.

Thomas Altena, an exercise physiologist at the University of Missouri-Columbia, has this to say: "The physiological responses associated with elliptical exercises were nearly identical to treadmill exercises." He also concluded that "both exercise machines are effective for increasing the amount of calories burned and for producing cardio respiratory health and training benefits..."

Lastly, the single feature often overlooked concerning elliptical trainers is the variety added to your workout. Motivation is one of the biggest challenges facing the exerciser. Interest must be maintained and elliptical trainers accomplish that nicely.

Treadmills, with their ability to change incline as well as intensity are big selling points. This has been the reason for it’s popularity increase over the last ten years. Elliptical machines match those features and add a few of their own.

Earlier we spoke of the dual action handlebars available in some elliptical machines. For the exerciser, in addition to being able to change the incline (available in Precor models) and the intensity, you can also choose not to use the handlebars and focus solely on the lower body. Most people who exercise do not use that option, but it does add variety to the workout.

What really separates the elliptical machine from various exercise machines on the market is the ability to choose forward or reverse motion with the foot pedals. The forward motion targets all the core areas used during walking/jogging. But with the reverse motion, your lower body gets a completely different workout by targeting the quadriceps, which receive a limited amount of activity in normal workout routines.

Although it cannot be said yet that ellipticals will replace treadmills as the first choice in exercise equipment, it should be a good race. Look at any health club, workout shop or rehab center and you will know that elliptical machines are here to stay.