Which Cardio Machine is Right for You?

At face value, the treadmill and the elliptical seem like two pretty similar pieces of gym equipment. Both machines have you up on your feet, moving in the same plane of motion and largely calling on the same set of muscles. Their basic purpose—giving you a cardio workout—is downright identical.

Yet these machines can inspire some big feelings: Most folks who use them prefer one or the other. Those on Team Treadmill love how it simulates an outdoor run or walk, plus how quickly it can get them huffing and puffing. Team Elliptical, on the other hand, will wax poetic about how it feels better on their body—and never leaves them paranoid about missing a step.

The Biggest Difference is the Impact of Your Strides

If you’ve only ever heard one thing about the elliptical, it was probably about it being “low-impact.” Because your feet are attached to the pedals the entire time, you don’t put a bunch of stress through your joints with each step the way that you do on a tread where your feet have to come off the belt then land back down to keep walking or running.

But that’s not to say that impact is entirely absent. In fact, it’s hugely helpful for our bone health. “Every step that you take, you’re providing force to the joints, which leads to more osteoblast activity, which will play a very large role in bone mineral density,” certified exercise physiologist and post-doctoral researcher at the University of Kentucky’s Sports Medicine Research Institute, tells SELF. For that reason, weight-bearing exercise like walking or running gives your bones the stimulus they need to strengthen, making it a smart part of a balanced fitness routine (particularly if you’re prone to choosing cardio over bone-building lifting workouts).

Yet there are times when it’s best to minimize that impact. In particular, people with arthritis, those coming back from lower-body injuries, or anyone who needs to minimize impact during pregnancy or the postpartum period are better off on the elliptical because of that boon. “Since it is low-impact, there’s less wear and tear on the joints, making it easier to do longer sessions without discomfort,” Dr. Reiner says.

The Elliptical Can Also Work Your Body in a Couple of Unique Ways

There are a few different kinds of ellipticals out there. Some keep your feet on just one circular path, and the only tweak you can make is the amount of resistance you’re pushing against. In this OG case, the muscles you work are pretty darn similar to those on a treadmill. Think: hamstrings, calves, glutes, quads. (Though you might get a little more glute and calf action on the tread.)

Other Factors to Consider

Kimberly Melvan, DPT, CSCS, tells SELF that it isn’t necessarily one over the other. “They’re both beneficial,” she says. “It isn’t necessarily one over the other.” To help you decide which to hop on when, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Consider your fitness goals. If you’re looking to improve your running or outdoor walking skills, the treadmill might be the way to go.
• Think about your body. If you have joint issues or are coming back from an injury, the elliptical might be a better bet.
• Reflect on your personal preferences. If you enjoy the feeling of being on a moving surface, the treadmill might be the way to go. If you prefer a more controlled, low-impact experience, the elliptical might be the better choice.

Conclusion

The choice between the treadmill and the elliptical ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Both machines can provide a great cardio workout, but it’s important to consider your goals, body, and personal preferences before making a decision.

FAQs

Q: Are there any other ways to get a low-impact workout?

A: Yes, there are many low-impact options, including swimming, cycling, and rowing.

Q: Can I still get a good cardio workout on the treadmill if I have joint issues?

A: Yes, but you may need to adjust your stride and pace to minimize impact. It’s also a good idea to consult with a doctor or physical therapist to develop a personalized workout plan.

Q: Can I use the elliptical for strength training?

A: Yes, you can adjust the resistance to make the machine more challenging and work on strengthening your muscles.