Does anyone know if there is any difference between the treadmill and the eliptical? Are they both cardio? Does one benifit more than the other?

I prefer the elyptical - but they are both cardio. Treadmills make me dizzy...elypticals don't make my knee hurt. In the end it's all about burning calories and making a habit of working out. So - the question is, which do you like better?

I think I always got a more intense workout on the elliptical, but it made my knees hurt. I'm probably not typical in the latter regard. Most people find the elliptical is easier on their knees because there's no impact.

If you're thinking of buying a machine, I suggest getting a temporary or trial membership to a gym or YMCA that has both. That way you can try both machines several times before you spend the money. After all, the best machine is the one you like well enough to keep using it.

Depends on equip. quality as to how much they can affect your knees and joints. Most often though ellipticals are better on them. I use an elliptical because it is more enjoyable and I get a very good workout. I was not sure on how effective they really were until I worked out on one and found out they are very challenging. Also, I got dizzy after getting of my first elliptical the first time only though, just cause it is a different movement. U should get one with movable arms so u can really get the full benefits. A good quality threadmill will usually cost more than a good quality elliptical, but it could be a few hundred or less depending on how much u plan to spend - range wise.

Whichever you enjoy, go with. The last time I tried the elliptical, I thought it was a lot like jogging, minus the impact. Which is probably a good thing for most people, but my breasts are rather too large for jogging. So I stick with the treadmill when I'm working out inside.

Tina....you are a beautiful gal!! Just had to say that!

I love my elliptical. I have problems with my joints, and it is practically no impact. Like others say though, it's what you enjoy and will stick with!

I am also considering an eliptical...I already have a treadmill. I am working on building a nice home gym. I like the idea of NO impact, since I have a bad ankle.

Elipticals are multi-purpose! They make great coat racks and clotheslines. They also make great dog gates when you're trying to keep the new puppy outta the sunroom.

I wish I had gone with the treadmill

We chose an elliptical over the treadmill for our family. The one we purchased was not a cheap one, we researched it throughly and we went back several times trying it before we made our decision. After using it for a time my wife figured out that the angle on the one we have hurt her knees, where the really nice ones at the gym did not. Everyone else in the family loves it.

You didn't really say you were wanting to purchase one though did you?

I say if you are using the machines in the gym switch it up ~ both good work-outs.

If you want to buy one then I suggest what most everyone else said and research it well.

To be honest I wanted a treadmill for our gym (we live in sunny southern california so the outside is usually pretty nice) but my wife said "Our entire OUTSIDE is a treadmill!".

Thanks all for your comments. I really appreciate your input.

I currently have a treadmill, but have been feeling a little sore in knees since. I thought in time they would get stronger.

I've noticed on the Biggest Loser they worked out on the treadmill and the eliptical. My hubby suggested we have one too, but I wasn't sure about spending the money if it gave the same sort of workout. You all have given me a little more to think about. Thanks again.

I wish you all success in your journey to a healthier you!
~Tina

I would love to have an elliptical machine at home! I feel like I get a better workout compared to a treadmill.

I personaly like the eliptical more. I find it gets my heart rate going much better. Also, I think I look like a dumb-*** when I run on a treadmill, so this kind of saves me from looking stupid!

I agree, but it also depends on the individual. I used different brands and models of ellipticals at two separate gyms, and had the same problem with all of them. The movement in an elliptical is just too close to the movement in a stair-climber, so it didn't work for me. But as I said, I'm probably not typical. I had pre-existing knee problems before I tried the ellipticals. We're all individuals, with different quirks and needs, so that's why it's a good idea to have several workouts on a piece of equipment before you spend big bucks on it. Trying it out for five or ten minutes in the store just isn't enough.

Another possibility to consider is the Gazelle. No impact and no strain on the knees. I have one and I love it.

I need to know if the treadmills at Academy Sports are any good? I'm thinking about purchasing one, but I'm unsure of the quality. Should I save a couple grand for a Precor or is there a dependable one at Academy for less? Please help

I just bought a Life Fitness elliptical and absolutely love it. I'm so glad that I saved up some extra money and bought a good quality one.