What To Know
- The treadmill is a high-impact exercise, while the elliptical is a non-impact exercise.
- In general, you can expect to burn about 10% more calories on the treadmill than you would on the elliptical.
- The treadmill is harder than the elliptical because it is a high-impact exercise that requires a greater range of motion and more resistance.
When it comes to cardio workouts, two popular options are the treadmill and the elliptical. Both machines provide a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories, but many people find that the treadmill is a more challenging workout. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Impact vs. Non-Impact
The treadmill is a high-impact exercise, while the elliptical is a non-impact exercise. This means that when you run on a treadmill, your feet strike the ground with force, which sends shockwaves up through your body. This can be jarring and uncomfortable, and it can also lead to injuries. The elliptical, on the other hand, is a non-impact exercise, which means that your feet never leave the pedals. This makes it a much more gentle workout on your joints.
2. Greater Range of Motion
The treadmill requires a greater range of motion than the elliptical. When you run on a treadmill, you have to swing your legs back and forth and lift your knees high. This requires more effort and coordination than using the elliptical, which simply involves stepping from side to side.
3. More Resistance
The treadmill provides more resistance than the elliptical. This means that you have to work harder to move the belt. The elliptical, on the other hand, provides less resistance, which makes it easier to use.
4. Higher Calorie Burn
The treadmill burns more calories than the elliptical. This is because the treadmill requires more effort and coordination to use. In general, you can expect to burn about 10% more calories on the treadmill than you would on the elliptical.
5. Better for Building Endurance
The treadmill is better for building endurance than the elliptical. This is because the treadmill forces you to keep moving at a steady pace. The elliptical, on the other hand, allows you to take breaks by simply slowing down or stopping.
6. More Versatile
The treadmill is more versatile than the elliptical. You can use the treadmill to walk, jog, run, or sprint. The elliptical, on the other hand, is limited to a few different movements.
7. More Challenging
Overall, the treadmill is a more challenging workout than the elliptical. This is because the treadmill requires more effort, coordination, and endurance. If you are looking for a challenging workout, the treadmill is a good option. However, if you are new to exercise or have joint problems, the elliptical may be a better choice.
Which Machine is Right for You?
The best way to decide which machine is right for you is to try both of them and see which one you prefer. If you are new to exercise, you may want to start with the elliptical and gradually work your way up to the treadmill. If you are looking for a challenging workout, the treadmill is a good option. However, if you have joint problems, the elliptical may be a better choice.
What You Need to Learn
1. Why is the treadmill harder than the elliptical?
The treadmill is harder than the elliptical because it is a high-impact exercise that requires a greater range of motion and more resistance.
2. Which machine is better for building endurance?
The treadmill is better for building endurance because it forces you to keep moving at a steady pace.
3. Which machine is more versatile?
The treadmill is more versatile because you can use it to walk, jog, run, or sprint.
4. Which machine is better for people with joint problems?
The elliptical is better for people with joint problems because it is a non-impact exercise.
5. Which machine burns more calories?
The treadmill burns more calories than the elliptical because it requires more effort and coordination to use.
