Elliptical vs Treadmill
The elliptical trainer and treadmills are two of the most controversial fitness equipment in the market today. One of the major criteria involving the two is their ability to burn calories, which is more effective in burning extra calories in the body?
Many of those who use treadmills now prefer to use use elliptical machines. It is because elliptical machines provide workout for both the upper and lower body and it has low impact also. But still, treadmills outsell elliptical trainers because the treadmill is used for the most common exercise (walking, jogging and running).
According to some reports, researches and studies made, the effect in the number of calories burnt by the elliptical trainers and treadmill are alike. As a matter of fact, the results based on the website www.healthstatus.com's calorie burn calculator shows the same results but the calories burned by walking or jogging is fewer compared to running on the treadmill.
Here is a list of the calories burned by a 150 lbs person who used the treadmill for an hour-- walking (2 mph)- 189, walking (3 mph)- 297, jogging-477, running (7 mph)- 703 and elliptical trainer-774.
But which of the two is really better and effective in burning calories? The answer is actually user-dependent. It depends on which of the two equipment motivates the used to exert more effort and force while using it.
For those who are into walking, jogging or running, they are most likely to choose the treadmill. Walking, jogging or running on the treadmill is a lot better than doing so on asphalt or concrete. It also involves different programs to add some variety in the routine.
Elliptical trainers is becoming known because of the low impact it has while working out both the upper and lower body parts. With these benefit, many muscle groups are developed and worked out (quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, chest, back, triceps and biceps). The machines ability to limit the impact and strain to the ankles, knees and back is because it is built to move in an elliptical motion without letting the feet leave the foot pedals.
Based on studies, there is a greater chance to burn more fats when there is a large group of muscle that are worked out. The exercise will be more effective in burning calories and building endurance of muscle when there is a greater mass of muscles involved with a particular exercise.
So, in this manner, we can say that an elliptical trainer is able to burn more calories, but running also does.
Choosing the right fitness equipment greatly lies on who will be using the equipment. For someone old and having problems with strain and joints and if those who like to develop the upper body, it is advisable to choose the elliptical trainer. While those who prefer to walk, jog or run, it is better to choose a treadmill.
Always remember that what you really need is the motivation to work out and give the effort with the exercise and machine you choose to use. Always have your doctor's advice first before engaging in physical activities to ensure your safety.