Elliptical vs. Treadmill — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 2, 2023
An elliptical is a low-impact exercise machine mimicking a running motion, while a treadmill is a machine that allows for walking or running in place.
Difference Between Elliptical and Treadmill
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
In the world of fitness equipment, elliptical and treadmill machines stand out as popular choices for cardiovascular exercise. The elliptical, known for its distinctive pedals, offers a smooth, low-impact motion that closely resembles running without exerting undue pressure on the joints. This makes it an appealing choice for individuals looking to minimize joint stress while working out. On the contrary, a treadmill provides a platform that facilitates walking or running in place, offering a more authentic running experience compared to its elliptical counterpart.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
From a safety and comfort perspective, the elliptical boasts an edge. Given its low-impact nature, it's often recommended for those recovering from injuries or with chronic joint issues. The treadmill, while versatile in adjusting speed and incline, might pose higher injury risks due to its high-impact nature, especially if not used with caution.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Despite their shared goal of promoting cardiovascular health, elliptical and treadmill machines cater to different needs and preferences. The elliptical is especially lauded for its ability to engage both the upper and lower body, given the presence of movable handles. This dual engagement ensures a more comprehensive workout. The treadmill, however, excels in simulating outdoor running conditions, making it ideal for avid runners or those training for events.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
When considering space and adaptability, both elliptical and treadmill machines come in various models to cater to different space constraints. However, treadmills, by design, might require more length, while ellipticals might be bulkier in width. In the end, choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill hinges on individual goals, physical condition, and personal preference.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Comparison Chart
Nature of Motion
Smooth, mimics running without the impact.
Authentic walking/running in place.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Body Engagement
Engages both upper and lower body.
Primarily focuses on lower body.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Impact Level
Low-impact, gentler on joints.
Can be high-impact, especially during running.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Space Requirement
Might be bulkier in width.
Typically requires more length.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Best for
Comprehensive workout & joint safety.
Simulating outdoor running & training.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Definitions
Elliptical
A machine designed to minimize joint stress during exercise.
After her knee injury, she preferred the elliptical to avoid impact.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Treadmill
A machine allowing one to walk or run in place.
He ran five miles on the treadmill every morning.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Elliptical
A device with pedals and handles for full-body workouts.
The elliptical at the gym provides both leg and arm resistance.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Treadmill
An apparatus used in stress tests in medical settings.
The doctor monitored his heart rate on the treadmill during the test.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Elliptical
Speaking with deliberate omission for brevity or effect.
His elliptical response left us wanting more details.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Treadmill
An exercise device with adjustable speed and incline.
She increased the treadmill's incline to intensify her workout.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Elliptical
A stationary exercise machine for simulating running.
She spent 30 minutes on the elliptical for her cardio workout.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Treadmill
A term symbolizing monotonous or repetitive tasks.
Working a 9-to-5 job felt like being on a never-ending treadmill.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Elliptical
Refers to an elliptic or oval shape.
The elliptical design of the stadium was breathtaking.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Treadmill
A device historically used to harness animal power.
The museum showcased a vintage treadmill powered by horses.
Tayyaba Rehman
Sep 21, 2023
Treadmill
A treadmill is a device generally used for walking, running, or climbing while staying in the same place. Treadmills were introduced before the development of powered machines to harness the power of animals or humans to do work, often a type of mill operated by a person or animal treading the steps of a treadwheel to grind grain.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
A wheel with steps on which a person treads, used to power machinery.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Elliptical
Of or relating to extreme economy of oral or written expression.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
An exercise device consisting of a continuous moving belt on which a person or animal can walk or run while remaining in one place.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
A piece of indoor sporting equipment used to allow for the motions of running or walking while staying in one place.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
(historical) A mill worked by persons treading upon steps on the periphery of a wide wheel having a horizontal axis. It was used principally as a means of prison discipline.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
(figurative) A process or situation in which continued effort leads to or is required for remaining at a particular state or level without moving ahead.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
To keep busy, for example with work or with other tasks, without being able to get ahead or make progress towards long-term goals.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Elliptical
Containing or characterized by ellipsis;
The clause of comparison is often elliptical
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
A mill worked by persons treading upon steps on the periphery of a wide wheel having a horizontal axis. It is used principally as a means of prison discipline. Also, a mill worked by horses, dogs, etc., treading an endless belt.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
An exercise device consisting of an endless belt on which a person can walk or jog without changing place
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Elliptical
Characterized by extreme economy of expression or omission of superfluous elements;
The dialogue is elliptic and full of dark hints
The explanation was concise, even elliptical to the verge of obscurity
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
Treadmill
A mill that is powered by men or animals walking on a circular belt or climbing steps
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2021
FAQs
Can treadmills help improve my uphill running?
Yes, treadmills with incline settings can help train for uphill running conditions.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Which is better for joint health: elliptical or treadmill?
The elliptical is generally considered better for joint health due to its low-impact nature.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Can I achieve the same calorie burn on both machines?
Calorie burn varies based on effort, but both machines can offer intense workouts with potential for high calorie burn.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Do all ellipticals come with arm handles?
Not all; while many ellipticals have arm handles for a full-body workout, some models focus solely on the legs.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Why do some treadmills have heart rate monitors?
Monitoring heart rate ensures users remain in a target zone for optimal fitness results and safety.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Which machine offers a better full-body workout?
Ellipticals with movable handles offer a comprehensive upper and lower body workout.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Which machine is better for training for a marathon?
A treadmill would be more appropriate for marathon training as it simulates actual running conditions.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Are manual treadmills effective for workouts?
Manual treadmills can provide effective workouts, but they rely on user-generated motion, which may be challenging for some.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Can I target my upper body using a treadmill?
While treadmills primarily focus on the lower body, pumping arms or using handheld weights can engage the upper body.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Which machine occupies more space?
While it varies by model, treadmills generally require more length, and ellipticals might be wider.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Do ellipticals provide a realistic running experience?
Ellipticals mimic the running motion but without the impact, so the experience differs from actual running.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Is it easier to maintain an elliptical or treadmill?
Maintenance varies by model and usage, but treadmills often require more attention due to their belts and motors.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
How safe are treadmills for older adults?
With proper caution and settings, treadmills can be safe; however, balance issues might make an elliptical a safer choice for some.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Do ellipticals offer variable resistance like treadmills' incline settings?
Yes, most ellipticals allow users to adjust resistance levels to vary workout intensity.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Can ellipticals help improve balance?
Yes, the coordinated motion of ellipticals can aid in enhancing stability and balance.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Author Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
