Treadmill or Cross Trainer... Which One is Best for You?

So you’ve made the decision to improve your health and fitness. Congratulations! There are many options available to you. What? That’s the problem? You’ve probably heard all the buzz recently about the Cross Trainer (or elliptical) and wonder what it can do that the old standard – the treadmill – can’t. Can’t decide which one is right for you?

On the surface, treadmills and cross trainers share a few things in common. Both provide great a workout with tons of benefits for your body. Depending on your particular situation though, one might be a better choice than the other.

Let’s look at a few variables and see which machine might best suit your needs:

• Bore easily? Need variety? Choose a cross trainer. This is precisely why the cross trainer has become so popular in recent years. With on board computers, heart rate monitors even programmable options coming into play in newer model treadmills, they still don’t compare with the cross trainer for the ability to customize your workout routine.
• Need to lose weight quickly? Your best bet might be a treadmill, but do some research. While treadmills have generally been shown to burn more calories more quickly than cross trainers, new research is emerging that suggests that the elliptical is capable of helping you burn just as many calories with less effort.
• Older and still want to get in shape? A cross trainer is the way to go. By their very design, the cross trainer offers a much smooth workout that is less stressful on your joints. Treadmills can have a jarring effect on your joints and muscles.
• Serious Runner? Hands down, get a treadmill as nothing will simulate your running experience like it.
• Already an athlete and want to supplement your training program? Go with the cross trainer. For rounding out your routine, you can’t beat the full body workout of the elliptical. Treadmills are better for targeting the lower body – most specifically your legs and lower abdominals - alone.
• Just want to burn some calories, raise your heart rate? Either machine will give you what you’re looking for. Both the cross trainer and the treadmill will help you burn calories efficiently and both get your blood pumping, offering a great cardio workout that you can do on your own schedule in the privacy of your home.

The best thing to do before making a big decision like this is to take advantage of a free guest pass at your local gym and spend some time getting to know how the machines operate and which one is best for you.

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