Which is Better for Weight Loss Elliptical or Treadmill?

Which is better for weight loss elliptical or treadmill? A lot of people has been asking this question, so if you are one of them, you are not alone. We reveal it all in this article, so read on to find out!

The treadmill and the elliptical are both staples at most gyms, and both have affordable options for home units.

When it comes to trying to lose weight, they can both be effective tool. But which one is going to be better for you?

Before we answer that question, let’s first discuss how each of these exercise equipment works.

How Does the Treadmill Work?

The treadmill is a classic, and enables users to vary their speed and incline to determine how hard they are going to work.

Since it mimics the natural walking and running motion you’re used to, there is almost no learning curve, and it doesn’t feel weird.

Newer models have preset programs that will vary the intensity of the workout without you having to manually change the settings.

And some even have built in displays that shows, movies, or even landscapes that you can imagine yourself running through.

The challenge to the treadmill is that it can be hard on the knees and the hips, as well as the feet and ankles.

It mimics running so well that those who often use it can expect the same types of injuries that runners get.

It also only offers the one type of exercise, which focuses on cardio.  The leg muscles will naturally get some tone, but it’s unlikely to create shapely curves.

How Does the Elliptical Work?

The elliptical came on to the fitness scene later, and was instantly a hit for those with joint pain.  It’s easy to see why.

The smooth, fluid circular motion completely avoids the impact that comes with running, making it a far safer option for those with pain and injuries.

Modern ellipticals also are often programmed with preset workouts, and where the treadmill increases height as in running up a hill, the elliptical increases resistance.

So your muscles have to work harder to accomplish the same motion…which burns more fat.

Using an elliptical is a little different, since it’s different from walking and uses a non-impact circular motion, but users can get used to it quickly.

It may be disorienting for the first few times, but it’s easily adapted to.

The other benefit to ellipticals is that they have swinging handholds that encourage the user to engage the arm muscles and even the core, making it a far more comprehensive workout in the same amount of time.

So, Which is Better for Weight Loss Elliptical or Treadmill?

In the battle of better fat burners, both tools are useful, but the winner of this battle is the elliptical.

The elliptical can help to tone muscle over the whole body (which creates a greater amount of fat burned during rest). It also has a much lower chance of injury. So, it is the better choice for anyone trying to shed fat.

If you only have a treadmill available, don’t despair!  The treadmill is still helpful.  But if you have the opportunity to upgrade to an elliptical, it can be even more beneficial for you.

(Also Read: Best Home Workout Equipment for Women)