Elliptical vs treadmill: Which is the better choice?

Creating a home gym is a personal commitment to health that requires thoughtful consideration, especially when it comes to selecting the right equipment. Two of the most common options for cardio workouts are the elliptical (also known as a cross trainer) and the treadmill.

Both offer engaging, sweat-inducing routines, but the choice between them can be pivotal for the effectiveness and safety of your at-home workouts. So, when asked which is better between elliptical vs treadmill, which really wins?

This guide navigates the differences of each machine, helping you determine which one is the best fit. Hopefully, by the end, you’ll be able to make your pick.

What is an elliptical?

Exercise on an elliptical offers a smooth, fluid motion that combines upper and lower body conditioning. Because it’s designed to replicate the motion of walking, running, and stair climbing, it doesn’t really place undue stress on the joints.

Elliptical is excellent for cardiovascular workouts and full-body toning. Another popular elliptical exercise benefit is its low-impact nature, which makes it ideal for individuals recovering from injuries.

What is an elliptical good for? Well, it provides an effective cardiovascular workout that improves heart health, boosts stamina, and aids in weight loss. 

When it comes to cross trainer vs running machine debates, the cross trainer stands out for its joint-friendly workouts and the ability to engage more muscle groups simultaneously. It’s essentially a more balanced exercise regimen.

What is a treadmill?

A treadmill is a well-known exercise machine designed primarily for walking, running, or jogging in place. It features a moving belt that serves as the ground’s movement. It adjusts to the user’s speed and inclines to simulate outdoor terrains.

Treadmills are renowned for their versatility in cardio workouts, as they allow both high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and steady-state cardio exercises. They also cater to a range of fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

Another thing, treadmills provide a controlled environment that is conducive to focused aerobic workouts. Therefore, they’re particularly beneficial for those looking to improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance, and promote weight loss. 

Exercise bikes are common contenders to treadmills because they often serve the same functions. However, the latter’s straightforward design and ease of use make the treadmill a staple in both home gyms and fitness centres worldwide.

Treadmill vs elliptical: Which provides a better home workout?

When considering the purchase of home workout equipment, choosing between an elliptical machine or a treadmill is almost always a struggle. After all, they both cater to various fitness goals, and each has its own distinct advantages.

Is an elliptical good? Or maybe the treadmill is the way to go for you? Regardless of your initial pick, this elliptical machine vs treadmill comparison guide will talk about each factor that will surely matter to you. 

In terms of cardiovascular workout

Both the elliptical and treadmill are effective for cardiovascular workouts, but they offer different benefits. 

An elliptical provides low-impact cardio that engages both the upper and lower body, which can be beneficial for those seeking a full-body workout. On the other hand, a treadmill tends to offer a more intense cardio session that is effective for building endurance and promoting weight loss.

The high-impact nature of running or jogging on a treadmill is excellent for strengthening the heart and lungs. Although, it may not suit everyone, especially those with knee or back issues.

So, in terms of cardio impact, choosing between cross trainer vs treadmill largely depends on your personal fitness goals. It’s also wise to think ahead of health considerations and which form of exercise you find more enjoyable and sustainable. 

In terms of joint impact

When comparing the joint impact of an elliptical versus a treadmill, the elliptical is generally kinder to the joints. This is primarily because it involves a smooth, elliptical motion that mimics natural movement patterns without the harsh impact on the knees, hips, and back.

In contrast, the treadmill subjects the body to significant impact with each footstrike. This is particularly the case when it’s set on running or intense jogging. This can lead to strain and discomfort in individuals with pre-existing joint problems or those who are prone to such issues.

Therefore, middle-aged women increasing their physical activity would probably benefit more from an elliptical. It’s more beginner-friendly and doesn’t really require training before getting started.

In terms of muscle engagement

The elliptical presents an advantage by providing a full-body workout that targets various muscle groups simultaneously. It engages the upper body, including arms and shoulders, through the use of moving handles. Additionally, it works the core and lower body muscles, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes, thanks to its elliptical motion.

On the contrary, a treadmill primarily focuses on the lower body, significantly engaging the legs and core, especially when adding an incline to mimic uphill running. While the intensity of a treadmill workout can lead to high-calorie burn and improve cardiovascular fitness, it lacks the upper body component that an elliptical offers.

In terms of calorie burn

When comparing the elliptical to the treadmill in terms of the amount of calories they burn, the latter generally wins. This is because a treadmill allows higher-intensity workouts, particularly through running or steep incline walking. This intensity directly correlates with higher energy expenditure.

However, the elliptical, with its ability to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, also ensures a substantial calorie burn that can closely compete with that of a treadmill. This is especially the case at high resistance levels or vigorous speeds.

In other words, to lose weight on an elliptical machine, you have to ensure consistency and intensity. Meanwhile, a workout treadmill’s fat-burning capacity is much more apparent, even with minimal effort. However, all of this still depends on your overall fitness regime.

In terms of the assembly process

Assembly for both an elliptical and a treadmill can vary significantly depending on the model and manufacturer. This includes setting it up for the first time and re-assembling it if you ever move your home gym somewhere else.

Generally, treadmills can be more straightforward to assemble, but they’re often heavier and bulkier. So, the initial setup is more challenging, and you should learn how to move it properly before trying to do so. This typically involves setting up the base unit, securing the deck, and attaching the console and handles. Treadmill maintenance is also something worth considering beforehand.

Ellipticals, on the other hand, may have a more complex assembly due to their multiple moving parts and alignment requirements. This includes attaching the arms, pedals, and, in some cases, multiple linkage systems. However, once assembled, they tend to occupy less floor space compared to treadmills and are easier to move.

Consider your technical skills, patience, and the available space in your home when choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill based on the assembly process. If you find the assembly process to be challenging, it may be worth considering hiring an expert assembler as your best option.

In terms of cost

The cost of both an elliptical and a treadmill can vary widely based on factors such as brand, functionality, and technology incorporated. 

On average, basic treadmills start at approximately $384, likely due to their simpler mechanical structure and the vast market availability. However, high-end models equipped with advanced features like interactive training platforms, robust motors, and larger running surfaces can drive the price upwards of $3,999.

Ellipticals, alternatively, begin at an entry-level price of about $241. Their price can also escalate significantly for models that include enhanced ergonomic designs, adjustable stride lengths, and integrated entertainment systems, peaking at around $16,499. It’s noteworthy that the advanced models of ellipticals often incorporate more sophisticated technology to mimic a natural movement pattern, which can contribute to the higher end of their price range.

Experience hassle-free elliptical and treadmill assembly with Airtasker

Whether you’re setting up your home gym with a focus on cardio exercises or aiming for low-impact, workouts, the choice between elliptical/cross trainer vs treadmill depends on your personal fitness goals, budget, and space considerations.

But when it comes to the actual fitness equipment installation, there’s an efficient way to ensure it’s done right without the hassle. By posting your task on Airtasker, you can easily connect with professional workers skilled in elliptical or treadmill assembly.

This way, you can kick-start your fitness routine without the stress of setting everything up yourself. Post a task today and connect with professional assembly experts who can streamline everything.