I can’t even count the number of times I get the question, is it better to workout on the elliptical or the treadmill? So I think its time I bring this question to Gym Technik….
First and foremost, if you’re working out on either, that’s good enough for me.(Keep up the good work!)
But to get down to the dynamics of the question, let’s break it up:
The Elliptical:
Is a great machine especially if you’re prone to injuries such as Achilles tendonitis (when you have pain in your heels), back and hip problems and even arthritis. Another injury, that happens particularly in avid runners, is runner’s knee. Thus by starting out on an elliptical machine, or working your way up, will allow you to avoid the problems associated with these types of injuries.
This being said, the elliptical is great because it’s not a high impact cardiovascular workout like the treadmill may be for some. And another great thing about using the elliptical is that it allows you to use different motions such as pedalling backwards and pumping the arm handles (while using the heart rate monitor). However, studies have shown that using the arm handles made little, even no difference, in oxygen consumption, effort or even heart rate.
The Treadmill:
I have always been a runner. I swear by running, and will probably always swear by running. I know, kind of hypocritical of me to write this article right? But, the treadmill seems to always get a bad rep because it’s associated with being a high impact exercise which leads to injuries, such as runners knee.
However, keep in mind that when you run on a treadmill, you are using practical everyday movements. Therefore, it takes more energy to pump your arms and legs without the help of the pedals or arm handles you get to use on the elliptical. Another thing I love about running on the treadmill is, and I always say this to clients I train (and yes, I know this is going to sound silly), the more ‘it’ (butt, stomach, arms, legs etc.) jiggles, the more aware you are of what areas need to be diminished on your body;)
So now that we’ve compared the two you’re probably asking yourself, well what’s the difference Sonya? Well, truth be told, studies have shown that there is no real difference when it comes to cardio between using the two machines. As long as your keeping your heart rate within your optimal fat burning zone, I promise that you’re on the right track to a better and fitter you!
If you have any questions feel free to ask below!
Sonya Gill - Read my other
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