10 Benefits of Using an Elliptical Machine Over a Treadmill
Introduction
If you’re looking for a low-impact cardio machine for your daily workout routine, chances are you’re considering either an elliptical machine or a treadmill. Both machines are popular and effective choices, but each has its own unique benefits. In this article, we’re going to focus on the benefits of using an elliptical machine over a treadmill.
1. Low-Impact Workout
One of the primary advantages of using an elliptical machine over a treadmill is that it provides a low-impact workout. Unlike a treadmill, which has a hard surface that can put stress on your joints, an elliptical machine has pedals that glide smoothly and decrease the impact on your knees, hips, and ankles.
2. Full-Body Workout
An elliptical machine also provides a full-body workout. When you use an elliptical machine, you use both your arms and your legs. This helps you work more muscle groups than you would with a treadmill, which only uses your lower body.
3. Burns More Calories
Using an elliptical machine can also help you burn more calories. According to some studies, you can burn up to 400 calories in 30 minutes on an elliptical machine. That’s more than you would burn in the same amount of time on a treadmill.
4. Lower Perceived Exertion
Another advantage of using an elliptical machine is that it can give you a lower perceived exertion. Many people find that working out on an elliptical machine feels easier than working out on a treadmill, even when they’re burning the same amount of calories.
5. Great for Cross-Training
If you’re a runner looking to supplement your training, an elliptical machine can be a great addition to your routine. Using an elliptical machine can help you build endurance, improve your cardiovascular health, and work different muscles than you would when running.
6. Lower Risk of Injury
As we mentioned earlier, an elliptical machine provides a low-impact workout. This can be a significant advantage if you’re recovering from an injury, or if you’re concerned about developing one. By reducing the stress on your joints, an elliptical machine can help you exercise with less risk of injury.
7. Better for Beginners
If you’re new to exercise, or if you’re just starting to work out again after a long break, an elliptical machine can be a great choice. It’s an easy machine to use, and it doesn’t require any special skills or coordination.
8. Adjustability
Another advantage of using an elliptical machine is that it’s highly adjustable. You can change the resistance and incline levels to make your workout more challenging, or you can slow down and decrease the resistance if you need an easier workout.
9. Variety of Workouts
Elliptical machines also offer a variety of different workouts. Many machines come with preset programs that allow you to vary your workout and focus on different goals, such as fat burning, interval training, and hill climbing.
10. Convenience and Space Efficiency
Finally, an elliptical machine is often a more convenient and space-efficient choice than a treadmill. It takes up less floor space, and it’s usually easier to move around if you need to store it or move it to a different location.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are elliptical machines better than treadmills for weight loss?
Elliptical machines can be a more effective choice for weight loss due to the increased calorie burn and full-body workout they provide.
2. Is it bad to use an elliptical machine every day?
No, it’s not bad to use an elliptical machine every day as long as you’re not over-exerting yourself and giving your body sufficient time to recover.
3. Can you build muscle using an elliptical machine?
While an elliptical machine is primarily a cardiovascular machine, it can help you build some muscle in your legs, glutes, and core.
4. Is an elliptical machine suitable for people with joint pain?
Yes, an elliptical machine is often a more suitable choice for people with joint pain as it provides a low-impact workout that puts less stress on your joints.
5. Can you run on an elliptical machine?
No, you cannot run on an elliptical machine. However, you can simulate the motion of running by increasing the resistance and incline levels.
Conclusion
An elliptical machine can be an excellent choice for anyone looking for a low-impact, full-body workout that burns calories, builds endurance, and reduces the risk of injury. It’s not only suitable for beginners but also for athletes looking to cross-train or supplement their running routine. The machine’s adjustability, convenience, and space efficiency make it an excellent investment for anyone serious about their fitness goals.
