There is a difference between elliptical exercises and the exercises that you do on a treadmill. On an elliptical machine, you are working with a pair of handles and pedals. There is little impact, so this machine is ideal for those who are overweight. Treadmills are more for walking, jogging and running.
So which machine provides a better workout?
The elliptical provides a good workout for the heart because you are moving your entire body at the same time. Each action requires you to move all the major muscle groups on your limbs. In addition, the twisting action also helps to firm up the mid section of the body.
As for the treadmill, it provides a very good simulation for running. If you are concerned about running speed, a treadmill would be a much better option. You can track your distance run, your speed, as well as your heart rate. That makes it easy to track your own progress.
As you can see, both machines serve different purposes. Most gyms have both the elliptical machines and treadmills. Some users prefer to workout on the elliptical, while others prefer the treadmill.
If you own a home gym, it's hard to imagine having both the elliptical and the treadmill at home. Two machines may just take up too much space! Fortunately, hybrid machines are being released in the marketplace right now. These machines combine the elliptical and the treadmill together into one single machine.
Now, there is no need to compare between the two machines. You can own both together at the same time!