A lot of people wonder if using an elliptical is as effective as using a treadmill, and the short answer is…Yes!! They are equally effective, but in different ways. The treadmill is great for people who specifically want to walk, run, or jog. Running and jogging is by far the best way to build your stamina. This is why many athletes use treadmills to get into shape preseason. Using an elliptical on the other hand, is a little different.

An elliptical can provide a geat cardio and muscle building workout!

While still being a great cardio workout, the elliptical can also be used to build muscle. The motion of your legs while on a treadmill, in a way simulates a kind of “half lunge”. Lunges are used to build all of the muscle groups in the legs, and being able to simulate this motion on an elliptical (in forward or reverse) gives you a great sustained muscle workout.

Not only do ellipticals workout your legs, but you can also choose to workout your arms and upper body as well. Most ellipticals have moving handlebars, and when you use these handlebars in concert with the swooping motion of your legs, you get a full body workout. Don’t expect to get ripped though, from using an elliptical only. If you want to build muscle you will have to lift weights as well as using the elliptical.
After all is said and done, the treadmill and the elliptical offer many of the same attributes. The treadmill, for a long time, has been the workout equipment of choice for gym goers as well as those who have home gyms, but the elliptical is gaining popularity. The smooth fluid motion of the elliptical is very enticing for those who experience joint pain after workouts. After working out on a treadmill, no matter who you are, you will feel some kind of pain from the constant pounding of your feet. And even though most treadmills have some sort of shock absorbers, many gym goers are now finding out that it’s no comparison to the “walking on air” feeling of the elliptical.
So what should you choose? Well that really depends on what your ultimate goal is. If your goal is to improve stamina and lose 20 pounds in 30 days, then the treadmill is for you. If you’re looking to keep your heart rate and your joints healthy, while keeping your body/fat content at a minimum, then the elliptical may suit you better. At the end of the day, both exercise machines are a great choice for anyone trying to stay in shape. Have fun choosing the elliptical or treadmill of your choice, and I hope this article helped you decide what is better for your workout goals. Make sure you check out some treadmill and elliptical reviews for a more well informed purchase.