Elliptical vs. Treadmill

It's a showdown of two of the giants of the stationary exercise equipment world. Treadmills are great for walkers and runners, especially those who want to stay out of the rain or the snow, or those who would rather not go out in the neighborhood in the dark. Elliptical machines, meanwhile, counter with no-impact workouts, which are like heaven for people with bad knees or an aching backs.

Both home or commercial elliptical machines and treadmills offer excellent cardiovascular workouts, which help with overall health, and weight maintenance and loss. Both involve leg movement, mimicking walking or running. Both allow you the convenience of staying in the same location indoors, and often, in the privacy of your own home. Both have the potential to offer various workouts, programs, heart monitors, etc.

No Impact Means Big Impact
Serious walkers or runners should choose the treadmill. But all of that running can mean a lot of pounding. The no-impact design of a Weslo elliptical machine means much less wear and tear on your body, not only over the course of a workout, but over a period of months and years. A less beat up body means you're more likely to stick with the workout, and without the stress on your joints, many claim that a home elliptical machine helps you burn more calories with less time and effort. Older people, and those coming back from injuries, can also get effective workouts thanks to the no-impact elliptical design.

Body-Solid Endurance E7 Premium Elliptical Trainer

Many Weslo Momentum elliptical machines also offer an upper-body workout as well, with moving handlebars as part of the routine.

Going Backward Offers Variety
Many elliptical trainers also offer the option of doing the motion backward, which spices things up a bit for both body and brain. Your body responds better to an occasional change in the exercise routine. More options mean you're more likely to stick with the program. Folding ellipticals also generally take up a little less room in your house.