Our Foldable Smart Connect Fitness Treadmill comes with automatic incline for an added challenge
Thinking of buying your own cardio machine for home but don't know which to pick? Trying to plan out a gym routine? Or maybe you just want to try something new! Treadmill and ellipticals have a whole host of similarities--and a whole host of differences, too!
Treadmills
The good:
Treadmills are very versatile. They'll offer you more control over your workout, especially the machines with extra features! With a treadmill, you set the speed with the machine and the incline. The combinations are endless! This is sure to enhance your workout and add another dimension of challenge!
Many treadmills have training programs that'll challenge you! Find a running program that will get you to your goals by taking you on steep slopes and fast straightaways. Having the machine set your pace for you will ensure you're not cutting any corners on your way to your next PR.
Treadmills are excellent for HIIT. High-intensity interval training involves short sprints of ultra-fast movement followed by a short cooldown period. A treadmill is necessary for HIIT because you can set the speed for the sprint and try to keep up with the treadmill. And once your done with your intensity interval, you can slow the speed back down so you get a bit of rest before the next spurt.
If you're training for a marathon, the treadmill is your best bet because you'll be able to control your speed and slowly challenge yourself gradually. This is great when you're trying to work on your endurance or your speed or both!
A treadmill will lead to more burnt calories. Because the movement on a treadmill is much more intensive and more muscle-engaging, your body will be forced to work harder to keep a steady pace. Plus, it's easy to increase the speed!
Unlike ellipticals, using a treadmill requires a more natural running movement. This make it's easier for your body to recognize the movement and easier for you to get into the swing of things. For an even more natural approach to running, consider running outdoors!
The not-so-good:
Treadmills are more much stressful on the foot and running on a treadmill is very high-impact. This can cause shin splints or other stress injuries. Make sure you take it easy at first; your body may be used to the movement but not used to the intensity.
Treadmills, unlike ellipticals, do not engage the upper body. They mainly work your core and legs.
Treadmills are also more expensive than ellipticals; you'll have to spend a bit more in order to start your cardio journey
Ellipticals
Our EL500 Smart Elliptical will fit perfectly into your routine
The good:
Ellipticals are the perfect cardio machine if you're looking after your joints! Ellipticals apply less stress on your joints while still providing a cardio workout! While other cardio methods may involve hard impacts and intense vibrations while striking the ground.
Because of the low-intensity impact it has on your joints and bones, ellipticals are great for those recovering from a sports injury. If you're trying to take it easy while still being able to fit in some cardio exercise, the elliptical is for you!
They also provide you with an opportunity to involve your upper body! Many ellipticals have handles to help you work out. This'll give you the opportunity to engage your arms and get them moving alongside your legs. You'll be working out two different parts of your body at once!
Ellipticals also work backworks. If you're looking to switch it up a little bit, try to pedal backwards while you're on an elliptical. Not only is this a cardio workout, but you'll be working out new muscles, too! Pedaling backwards engages the calves and the hamstrings more than regular pedaling.
Finally, ellipticals are cheaper than treadmills! If you're looking to purchase one yourself for your home gym, you'll find that ellipticals are a bit more wallet-friendly than treadmills.
The not-so-good:
If you're trying out the elliptical for the first time, it might take some getting used to. The movement is not "body intuitive" and so you'll have to get accustomed to moving your body in the correct way. Unlike a treadmill, which is reliant on your natural movements, you'll have to adjust your stride to accomodate the machine (but you'll get used to it)!
Although you will engage your lower and upper body at once, they'll both be putting in less work as a result. This means that you'll notice slower muscle and strength development in two areas instead of regular muscle and strength development in one.
Additionally, ellipticals are only as good as you let them be. An elliptical will put in some of the work for you, allowing you to slack off a little extra and not get an as-intense workout as you should be. To get the most out of an elliptical, make sure you're putting in an honest amount of effort (or you won't see any results)!
Although you'll be engaging your arms and legs, you'll be engaging your core less. The work being put in by your upper body and lower body will mean that your abdominal can relax without feeling the workout.
In conclusion...
Pick the one that's right for you! Consider your goals, weigh the pros and cons, and consult with your doctor to see what the best course of action is. And when you're ready to make a decision, we'll be here!
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