Cross trainer and treadmill are essentials in any gym. You’ll find that both of these popular machines are often busy as they both offer a great cardio workout – but which machine is best?
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If you’re wondering which machine to spend time on during your next gym session and which machine is the best choice for your training goals, our article will help you decide.
Cross Trainer vs Treadmill
Both cross trainers and treadmill will get your heart rate up and your blood pumping. They’re both great options for weight loss and improving general fitness, so let’s take a look at the other main factors to consider for both machines.
Which is best for toning?
The cross trainer has the edge over the treadmill for toning. On a cross trainer, you stand on the pedals and push yourself forward or backward in a circular motion by holding the handles. You can set the resistance level on your machine, which determines how difficult this movement is.
This resistance is great for toning the quads and glutes and targeting your arms, back, and chest. Plus, on a cross trainer, you can work on different muscle groups. Pushing yourself forward works your triceps and chest while pulling the handles works your biceps and lats.
Although the treadmill also tones the glutes and thighs (especially if you set the incline), the cross trainer provides an upper and lower body workout.
Which is best for joints?
A cross trainer is a better option for people suffering from joint pain.
Some people find that running on a treadmill or outside can cause joint pain, especially in areas such as the knees. On the other hand, a cross trainer is a low-impact cardio option that puts less pressure on your joints. So if you have arthritis or are recovering from an injury, this may be a better machine for you.
However, we also need weight-bearing exercises to strengthen our bones and muscles. Unlike using a cross trainer, walking, jogging and running on a treadmill require you to lift your own body weight – and doing so will strengthen your bones over time.
Should you use a treadmill or cross trainer for weight loss?
How many calories you burn on a cross trainer compared to a treadmill depends on a number of factors, including speed, incline level and weight.
A Harvard Health study found that a 155-pound person can burn 324 calories on an elliptical machine, while running a mile for ten minutes will burn 360 calories for that same person. While this can vary on a treadmill, you can generally burn more calories by running.
This may be due to the fact that the motion of the cross trainer helps your body during the workout. However, supporting your body weight while running requires a lot more effort on a treadmill.
Which is best for beginners?
The treadmill is similar to walking or running outside, so it’s very comfortable. Some people may find the cross trainer more challenging at first, but it’s a very user-friendly machine that doesn’t take long to get used to.
The treadmill is versatile too; you can go at your own pace and set the incline to your comfort. Some days you might want to walk at a steeper incline; other days, you might want to do a HIIT workout or run.
Cross trainer vs treadmill at a glance
Advantages of a cross trainer
- Great for toning the upper and lower body
- Targets different muscle groups
- Easy on joints
- A good option for recovering from injury
Disadvantages of a cross trainer
- A little difficult to get used to at first
- Bone-strengthening, not a weight-bearing exercise
- Not as versatile
Advantages of a treadmill
- Strengthens leg muscles
- Offers versatile workout options
- Burns calories quickly
Disadvantages of a treadmill
- Works on fewer muscles
- Doesn’t target the upper body
- Can cause injury and joint pain
The Verdict
There are many factors to consider when choosing between a cross trainer or a treadmill. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference, physical health and what you want from your workout.
If you are looking for a cardio machine that also offers toning benefits, then a cross trainer is your best option. Similarly, if you suffer from joint pain or are recovering from an injury, the low-impact nature of a cross trainer may be preferable.
On the other hand, if you are looking for versatility and lots of control, then a treadmill is your best option. You can choose to walk, jog or run and change your speed and gradient whenever you want. A session on the treadmill is also better in terms of calories burned.
Your best bet? Incorporate both into your gym routine for a well-balanced workout that offers the benefits of both.
