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Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which Cardio Machine Is Right For You?

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At some gyms, both pieces of workout equipment are so popular that theres a sign-up list for each.

(Not to knock strength trainingthats important, too!)

Fitness trainer and running coachMeghan Takacssays that cardio benefits the body, brain, and mental well-being.

woman sweating in the gym

run coach and founder of the Movement &

Takacs explains that cardio-based workouts also increase your heart rate, which causes you to breathe harder.

Curious to how to know which one is the best fit for accomplishing your health goals?

Keep reading to see the benefits of each and advice on which one to go for.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

What are the benefits of treadmill running?

Running outside requires more muscles.

Not training for anything?

Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

Takacs says there are other benefits to using the treadmill instead of the elliptical.

In general, the treadmill is a more effective workout than the elliptical because its harder work.

In terms of a core and lower body workout, the treadmill, she says, wins out.

Happy woman dancing and listening to music near a green empty wall outdoor in the city.

run coach and founder of the Movement &

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Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

Theres also some scientific evidence showing thatrunning is good for your bones.

Since using the elliptical does not require the same impact as running, it doesnt bring this benefit.

One benefit is that its lower impact and especially easier on the knees and ankles.

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

If youre recovering from an injury, the elliptical can be a good machine to use, says Takacs.

Working out your arms and legs at the same time also requires coordination that running really doesnt.

So, which one is the better workout?

This is really because it requires more from the body, she says.

(And hey, the bonus of some arm work thrown in there, too.)

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