Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill? Both machines offer excellent cardio workouts.
Ellipticals and treadmills are popular choices for fitness enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gym-goer, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each can help you make a better decision. Ellipticals provide a low-impact workout, which is gentler on the joints.
Treadmills, on the other hand, mimic the natural motion of walking or running, offering a more intense cardio experience. Knowing the differences can help tailor your workout to your fitness goals and physical needs. This comparison will guide you through the key features of both, helping you decide which equipment suits your lifestyle better.
Elliptical Overview
Ellipticals are popular workout machines. They offer low-impact exercise. Many prefer them for their joint-friendly design. Ellipticals simulate walking, running, and stair climbing.
This machine is versatile and user-friendly. It suits both beginners and advanced users. Learn how an elliptical works and its key features below.
How An Elliptical Works
Ellipticals have foot pedals and handlebars. You move these in a smooth, circular motion. This motion mimics natural walking or running. Your feet never leave the pedals. This reduces stress on your joints.
Most ellipticals also have resistance settings. Adjusting the resistance changes your workout intensity. Some models include incline options. This adds variety to your exercise routine.
Key Features Of Ellipticals
Ellipticals come with various features. Common features include adjustable resistance and incline. Built-in workout programs offer guided sessions. These programs help you achieve fitness goals.
Many ellipticals have heart rate monitors. These monitors track your pulse during workouts. Some models feature large displays. These show time, distance, and calories burned.
Other features include Bluetooth connectivity. This allows syncing with fitness apps. Some ellipticals also have built-in speakers. You can listen to music while exercising. These features make your workout more enjoyable.
Treadmill Overview
A treadmill is a popular exercise machine. It provides a great cardio workout. Many people use treadmills for walking, jogging, or running indoors. This machine is suitable for all fitness levels. It allows users to control speed and incline. Let’s explore how treadmills work and their key features.
How A Treadmill Works
A treadmill has a moving belt. You walk or run on this belt. It moves under your feet. The motor powers the belt. You can adjust the speed of the belt. The speed setting controls how fast you move. You can also change the incline. This makes the workout harder. It simulates walking or running uphill.
Key Features Of Treadmills
Treadmills come with many features. They have speed settings. You can walk slowly or run fast. Many treadmills also have incline settings. This adds variety to workouts. Some treadmills have heart rate monitors. These help you track your fitness. Others have built-in workout programs. These programs can guide your exercise routine.
Display screens show important information. This includes speed, distance, and calories burned. Many treadmills have cushioned belts. This reduces impact on joints. Some models even fold up. This saves space when not in use. Treadmills are versatile and user-friendly. They are a great choice for indoor exercise.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Cardiovascular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart and improving overall fitness. Two popular machines for cardio workouts are the elliptical and the treadmill. Both offer unique benefits. But which one is better for your cardiovascular health?
Cardio Efficiency Of Ellipticals
Ellipticals provide a low-impact workout, which is gentler on the joints. This makes them ideal for people with joint issues or those recovering from injury. The elliptical’s motion mimics walking or running but without the harsh impact. It also engages both the upper and lower body, offering a full-body workout. This helps improve cardiovascular endurance while reducing the risk of injury.
Ellipticals are effective for burning calories and improving heart health. They allow users to adjust the resistance and incline, which can increase the intensity of the workout. This flexibility helps in targeting different muscle groups and improving overall fitness levels.
Cardio Efficiency Of Treadmills
Treadmills are a classic choice for cardio exercise. They offer a more traditional running or walking experience. Running on a treadmill is a high-impact exercise, which can be more effective for building bone density. This makes it a great option for those looking to strengthen their bones and muscles.
Treadmills allow users to set their speed and incline, offering a range of workout intensities. This makes it easy to track progress and gradually increase the difficulty. Treadmills are also excellent for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is known to improve cardiovascular health and burn calories quickly.
Feature | Elliptical | Treadmill |
---|---|---|
Impact Level | Low | High |
Muscle Engagement | Full-body | Lower body |
Bone Density | Moderate | High |
Joint Impact | Low | High |
Both ellipticals and treadmills offer unique cardiovascular benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your fitness goals and physical condition.

Muscle Engagement
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill often comes down to muscle engagement. Understanding which muscles are targeted can help you make an informed decision. Both machines offer unique benefits for different muscle groups.
Muscle Groups Targeted By Ellipticals
Ellipticals provide a full-body workout. Your legs, core, and arms are all engaged. The pedaling motion targets your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. The resistance levels can also work on your calves and shin muscles.
The handlebars add an upper body component. Your biceps, triceps, and shoulders get involved. This makes the elliptical a good choice for a balanced workout. Your core also stabilizes your body, strengthening your abs and lower back.
Muscle Groups Targeted By Treadmills
Treadmills focus primarily on the lower body. Running or walking on a treadmill targets your quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Your glutes also get a good workout, especially at an incline.
Your core muscles engage to maintain balance. This can help improve your posture. Unlike ellipticals, treadmills do not engage the upper body as much. For a full-body workout, you might need to add some weight training exercises.
Impact On Joints
Choosing the right workout machine can be challenging. Understanding the impact on joints is crucial. This section explores how ellipticals and treadmills affect your joints.
Joint Impact Of Ellipticals
Ellipticals are a popular choice for those who prioritize joint health. The machine provides a low-impact workout. This means less stress on your knees, hips, and back.
With an elliptical, your feet never leave the pedals. This smooth motion reduces the risk of joint injuries. Many people with arthritis or joint pain prefer ellipticals.
Using an elliptical can help you stay active without causing joint pain. It is ideal for those recovering from injuries. For elderly users, it offers a safer workout option.
Joint Impact Of Treadmills
Treadmills offer a high-impact workout. This can be tough on your joints. Running or walking on a treadmill puts stress on your knees, ankles, and hips.
The impact can lead to joint pain and injuries. If you have pre-existing conditions, treadmills may not be the best choice. It is important to use proper footwear and technique to minimize risk.
Despite the impact, treadmills provide an excellent cardio workout. They help improve bone density. For those with healthy joints, treadmills can be very effective.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Elliptical | Treadmill |
---|---|
Low-impact | High-impact |
Less stress on joints | More stress on joints |
Suitable for joint pain | Can cause joint pain |
Consider your joint health when choosing your workout machine. Both options offer unique benefits. Choose wisely to ensure a safe and effective workout.

Calorie Burn Comparison
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill can be tough. Both are popular choices for cardio workouts. One of the main factors people consider is the number of calories burned. Let’s compare the calorie burn on each machine.
Calories Burned On Ellipticals
Ellipticals are known for their low-impact nature. They are easier on your joints. This makes them a favorite among those with knee issues. But how effective are they for burning calories?
- Moderate Intensity: A person weighing 155 pounds can burn about 335 calories in 30 minutes.
- High Intensity: The same person can burn around 400 calories in the same time.
These numbers can vary based on weight. Heavier individuals burn more calories. Light individuals burn fewer. Using the handlebars can increase calorie burn. This engages more muscles in the workout.
Calories Burned On Treadmills
Treadmills are versatile. You can walk, jog, or run. The intensity of your workout can change the number of calories you burn.
Activity | Calories Burned (155 lbs) |
---|---|
Walking (3.5 mph) | 149 calories per 30 minutes |
Jogging (5 mph) | 298 calories per 30 minutes |
Running (7.5 mph) | 465 calories per 30 minutes |
Running burns the most calories. Walking burns the least. Jogging falls in between. Adjust the speed and incline to increase or decrease the calorie burn.
Customization And Versatility
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill can be challenging. Both machines offer unique features and benefits. One significant factor to consider is the customization and versatility each machine provides. Customizable workouts can help you achieve your fitness goals more efficiently.
Customizable Workouts On Ellipticals
Elliptical machines are known for their ability to offer a variety of customizable workouts. Users can adjust several settings to create a personalized experience:
- Resistance Levels: Increase or decrease the resistance to simulate different terrains.
- Stride Length: Adjust the stride length to match your natural gait.
- Incline: Modify the incline to target different muscle groups.
Ellipticals often come with pre-programmed workouts. These programs can focus on specific goals, such as weight loss, endurance, or strength training.
Customizable Workouts On Treadmills
Treadmills also provide a high level of customization. Users can tailor their workouts to meet their needs:
- Speed: Adjust the speed for walking, jogging, or running.
- Incline: Change the incline to simulate hills and improve cardiovascular fitness.
- Workout Programs: Select from pre-set programs focused on different goals.
Many treadmills offer heart rate monitoring. This feature helps in customizing workouts based on your heart rate zones.
Feature | Elliptical | Treadmill |
---|---|---|
Resistance Levels | Adjustable | Not Applicable |
Stride Length | Adjustable | Not Applicable |
Speed | Not Applicable | Adjustable |
Incline | Adjustable | Adjustable |
Pre-Set Programs | Available | Available |
Cost And Space Considerations
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill often involves careful consideration of cost and space. Both types of equipment offer unique benefits, but understanding the investment and space requirements can help you make the best choice for your needs.
Cost Analysis Of Ellipticals
Ellipticals come in a wide range of prices. Basic models may start around $300, while high-end machines can cost upwards of $3,000. The price often reflects the quality, durability, and features of the machine. Here’s a general breakdown:
Price Range | Features |
---|---|
$300 – $600 | Basic functionality, limited programs |
$600 – $1,500 | More programs, better build quality |
$1,500 – $3,000 | Advanced features, superior durability |
$3,000+ | Commercial-grade, extensive features |
Cost Analysis Of Treadmills
Treadmills also vary in price, with basic models starting around $200 and premium models exceeding $5,000. The cost usually depends on the build quality, motor power, and additional features. Here’s a general price range:
Price Range | Features |
---|---|
$200 – $500 | Basic functionality, manual incline |
$500 – $1,200 | Motorized incline, better cushioning |
$1,200 – $3,000 | Interactive displays, heart rate monitors |
$3,000+ | Commercial-grade, extensive programs |
Space Requirements For Each Equipment
Space is another critical factor. Both ellipticals and treadmills require adequate room for safe use. Here’s a comparison:
- Ellipticals: Typically require a footprint of about 6 feet by 2.5 feet. Ensure there is additional space for movement and ventilation.
- Treadmills: Generally need more space, about 7 feet by 3 feet. Some models offer foldable designs to save space when not in use.
Consider ceiling height as well. Ellipticals can add about 12-18 inches to your height, while treadmills can elevate you by about 8-12 inches. Ensure you have enough headroom to avoid accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is Better For Weight Loss: Elliptical Or Treadmill?
Both machines can aid weight loss. Treadmills are ideal for high-intensity workouts. Ellipticals provide a low-impact option. Your choice depends on your fitness goals and joint health.
Are Ellipticals Easier On Joints Than Treadmills?
Yes, ellipticals offer a low-impact workout. They reduce stress on your joints. Treadmills can be harder on knees and ankles, especially at high speeds.
Can I Build Muscle On An Elliptical?
Yes, you can build muscle on an elliptical. It targets your legs, glutes, and core. Incorporate resistance settings for added muscle engagement.
Is A Treadmill More Effective For Cardio?
Treadmills are excellent for cardio workouts. They allow for running, which increases your heart rate. Ellipticals also provide cardio benefits but with less intensity.
Conclusion
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill depends on your fitness goals. Both machines offer great cardio workouts. Ellipticals are gentler on your joints. Treadmills mimic outdoor running more closely. Consider your body’s needs. Think about your preferences. Try both machines at your gym.
See which one feels better. The best workout machine is the one you enjoy. Stay active. Keep moving. Your health will thank you.