Treadmill vs Elliptical

Many people want to know which is produces better results, the treadmill or elliptical. Treadmills have definitely been around for quite some time, and thus have been given many modifications and advancements, whereas the ellipticals are relatively new to the fitness market place. Both produce results, but what we want to know is which gives better results and is the best for the body.

Let's start with ellipticals, they are easy on the joints because there is no hard impact like there is on the treadmill, and this can benefit people who suffer from any type of joint pain in the knees or legs. Ellipticals focus a lot on the lower body to simulate jogging but they also have the advantage of the handlebars which can give you a great upper body workout as well.

This is what Thomas Altena, an exercise physiologist at the University of Missouri-Columbia, had to say: "The physiological responses associated with elliptical exercises were nearly indentical to treadmill exercises." He went on to conclude that "both exercise machines are effective for increasing the amount of calories burned and for producing cardio respiratory health and training benefits..."

Also, ellipticals have the advantage of pushing the pedals both forward and backwards, as this will work your lower body in a totally different way. With this said it is able to work more lower body muscles than the treadmill.

The elliptical is a great workout machine, but what about the treadmill? For people who want to train and get a seriously intense workout it is safe to say a treadmill would be the way to go. In simplicity, the treadmill simulates real life jogging/running experiences as oppossed to the elliptical. Also, the treadmill can give a bigger calorie burn off than an elliptical if used in a proper way. As stated previously some downsides are that a treadmill will put more pressure on your joints and it is hard to say just how much more calories a treadmill can burn in case of an elliptical.

Both equipment options offer many varieties to your workout and can add to your overall fitness level. Depending on what you are looking for you may want a treadmill or an elliptical. Fortunately, Fit4sale offers a huge variety on both treadmills and elliptical machines, so you are sure to find what you're looking for whichever equipment you choose!