Why is Elliptical Harder Than Treadmill? Discover the Hidden Factors Affecting Your Fitness Goals

The eternal debate of elliptical vs. treadmill has been raging among fitness enthusiasts for decades. While both machines offer excellent cardiovascular workouts, many swear by the elliptical for its perceived greater difficulty. But what’s the science behind this claim? Let’s delve into the factors that make the elliptical a more demanding workout than the treadmill.

1. Full-Body Engagement

Unlike treadmills, which primarily work the lower body, elliptical trainers engage both the upper and lower body simultaneously. This means that during each stride, you’re not only pushing off with your legs but also pulling with your arms. This increased muscle recruitment leads to a more comprehensive workout and higher calorie burn.

2. Resistance Profile

Elliptical trainers typically offer adjustable resistance levels, allowing you to customize your workout intensity. The higher the resistance, the harder you have to work. On the other hand, treadmills usually only offer speed adjustments, which primarily affect the cardiovascular intensity. As a result, elliptical trainers provide a more challenging resistance-based workout.

3. Impact vs. Non-Impact

Treadmills involve high-impact running or walking, which can put stress on joints and muscles. In contrast, elliptical trainers are low-impact and non-weight-bearing, making them a more joint-friendly option. However, this non-impact nature also means that you have to work harder to achieve the same cardiovascular benefits as running or walking on a treadmill.

4. Core Engagement

Elliptical trainers require you to maintain an upright posture and stabilize your core during each stride. This constant core engagement helps strengthen your abdominal and back muscles, contributing to overall stability and balance. Treadmills, on the other hand, do not require as much core involvement.

5. Calorie Burn

Studies have shown that elliptical trainers burn more calories per hour compared to treadmills at the same intensity level. This is because of the increased muscle recruitment and resistance involved in elliptical training.

6. Intensity Control

Elliptical trainers allow you to adjust both resistance and speed, giving you greater control over the workout intensity. This allows for a wider range of workout options, from low-intensity recovery sessions to high-intensity interval training. Treadmills, while offering speed adjustments, lack the resistance variation that elliptical trainers provide.

7. Incline Adjustment

Some elliptical trainers offer incline adjustments, which can further increase the workout intensity. By simulating uphill walking or running, the incline adds an additional challenge to the workout, engaging more muscles and burning more calories.

Final Verdict: Why is Elliptical Harder Than Treadmill?

Based on these factors, it’s evident that elliptical trainers offer a more challenging workout than treadmills overall. The full-body engagement, higher resistance profile, non-impact nature, core engagement, calorie burn, intensity control, and incline adjustment capabilities all contribute to making the elliptical a more demanding choice.

However, it’s important to note that the difficulty of a workout is subjective and depends on individual fitness levels, goals, and preferences. Both elliptical trainers and treadmills can provide effective cardiovascular workouts, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and abilities.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Is it better to use an elliptical or treadmill for weight loss?
A: Both elliptical trainers and treadmills can aid in weight loss, but elliptical trainers generally burn more calories due to their full-body engagement and higher resistance options.

Q: Which machine is more effective for building muscle?
A: Elliptical trainers primarily target endurance muscles, while treadmills can help build some lower body muscle mass. However, both machines are not ideal for significant muscle building.

Q: Can I use an elliptical if I have joint problems?
A: Yes, elliptical trainers are a low-impact option that is suitable for individuals with joint issues. The non-weight-bearing nature of the exercise minimizes stress on joints.

Q: Is it possible to get a cardio workout on both an elliptical and treadmill?
A: Yes, both machines offer cardiovascular benefits. However, elliptical trainers may provide a more challenging workout and engage more muscle groups.

Q: Which machine is better for interval training?
A: Elliptical trainers offer greater intensity control and resistance adjustment, making them a better choice for interval training.