Cardio Calling: Treadmill vs. The Elliptical

Author: Shannon Miller

Treadmill versus Elliptica

For those of you who have recently taken up working out at the gym or who are thinking about doing so soon, imagine that you’re at the gym and you’re ready to get that heart rate up.

Two likely options are the treadmill and the elliptical.  Which do you choose?

Both make for great workouts, so it largely depends on you and what type of workout you are looking for.

Consider some basic differences between the 2 machines that pertain to the effects that each can have on your body:

  • The elliptical allows you to work out your upper and lower body, as both your arms and legs are going when using this machine thus you’re able to work a wider variety of muscles.
  • The treadmill focuses on a workout for the lower body, as you walk or run.

That being said, a treadmill workout is somewhat higher impact than an elliptical workout.  Rather than a typical walk or run, on the elliptical your legs get to experience a circular range of motion.  The elliptical, therefore, can be easier on your knees and ankles.

TIP:  In the end, you have to choose what’s right for you.  Go with what gets you off the couch, change it up, just keep moving.

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