Why I prefer the Elliptical vs. Treadmill
In my 20’s I didn’t believe in any other piece of cardio giving me the results I wanted other than the treadmill. I took pride in running on the treadmill before every workout no matter what. I guess that is where my love for running started. I proceeded to run five 5K races, one 8K race and a half marathon. The half marathon was one of my toughest workouts to date.
Shortly after the half marathon I invested in a bicycle and began riding daily on a bike trail near my home. It took me longer to burn the calories but I felt better after each workout.
When the winter came the bike needed to be put away (I live in Chicago, you have to really love cycling to cycle outside in the winter), I was forced to choose a different form of cardio equipment for indoor workouts.
Then I saw the Elliptical sitting at the gym, lonely.
I said, let’s see if I can even sweat on this thing. I jumped on for 10 minutes and cranked up the levels.
10 minutes later… I've worked up a good sweat and saying to myself that wasn’t so bad. The next few times I began setting goals for myself to see how many strides I could get during my warmup which is typically 10-15 minutes long.
The Elliptical is known as a low-impact cardio machine. This means your joints have a lower impact on the ground during every stride unlike running on the treadmill. The Elliptical is said to be easier on your knees, back, hips, feet and ankles because your feet never leave the pedals so there is literally no shock.
Don't get me wrong I still run occasionally, but I have learned to treat my body better and avoid injuries to keep my body moving many years to come.
I've also realized that it does not matter which cardio equipment you choose to use. The calories you burn will depend on how hard you push yourself on any of them.
Get up, get moving, and challenge yourself by setting small goals! You got this!
