Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which is Faster?
What burns calories the quickest, elliptical or treadmill?
If your primary goal is to burn calories quickly, the treadmill has an edge
However, if you prefer a lower-impact exercise that still offers a great workout, the elliptical is a fantastic option.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one you enjoy and can stick with consistently
Regarding the burning of calories, both exercises burn a considerable amount of calories, and this of course depends on the intensity and duration of the exercise
Let's review both of the exercises:
Treadmill
Running on a treadmill typically burns more calories than using an elliptical.
A 160-pound person running at a moderate pace (5 mph) can burn approximately 600 calories per hour.
Fat Burning
Running at a steady pace helps in burning fat, but high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the treadmill can maximize fat loss.
During HIIT, you alternate between short bursts of intense running and recovery periods, which keeps your metabolism high even after the workout.
Muscle Engagement
Running engages your leg muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings, calves), core, and even upper body to some extent.
Impact on Joints
Running on a treadmill can be hard on your joints, especially your knees and ankles. It’s important to wear good running shoes and maintain proper form.
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Elliptical
Calories Burn
Using an elliptical can be effective, and it's generally easier on your joints.
A 160-pound person can burn about 365 calories per hour on the elliptical machine at a moderate intensity.
Fat Burning
Ellipticals can also help burn fat. Using the machine at a higher resistance level or incorporating HIIT can enhance fat burning.
The elliptical provides a full-body workout, engaging both the upper and lower body, which can be beneficial for overall fat loss.
Muscle Engagement
The elliptical works your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and upper body muscles (especially if using the handlebars).
Impact on Joints
The elliptical offers a low-impact workout, making it a better option for individuals with joint issues or those looking to avoid high-impact exercises.
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