Elliptical vs. Treadmill: Which Is Better for Your Fitness Goals?
When choosing between an elliptical trainer and a treadmill, the best option depends on your fitness goals, joint health, and workout preferences. Both machines offer excellent cardiovascular benefits, but they differ in impact, muscle engagement, and overall effectiveness for weight loss, endurance, and strength training.
In this guide, we’ll compare ellipticals and treadmills in terms of:
✔ Calorie Burn & Weight Loss
✔ Joint Impact & Safety
✔ Muscle Engagement
✔ Versatility & Workout Styles
✔ Space & Budget Considerations
By the end, you’ll know which machine aligns best with your fitness needs—whether you’re looking for a low-impact elliptical cross trainer for home or a high-intensity treadmill for running.
1. Calorie Burn: Elliptical vs. Treadmill
Treadmill: Higher Calorie Burn (But More Impact)
Running on a treadmill burns more calories per minute (approx. 600–800 kcal/hour at high intensity).
Better for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprinting.
Walking at an incline also boosts calorie expenditure.
Elliptical: Steady, Efficient Fat Burning
An elliptical cross trainer burns 400–600 kcal/hour, depending on resistance.
Lower perceived exertion means you can work out longer with less fatigue.
Ideal for steady-state cardio and endurance training.
Winner?
For max calorie burn: Treadmill (running).
For sustainable fat loss: Elliptical (longer sessions with less strain).
2. Joint Impact: Which Is Safer?
Elliptical: Best for Low-Impact Exercise
Zero impact on knees, hips, and ankles—great for arthritis, injuries, or rehab.
Smooth, gliding motion reduces stress on joints.
Recommended for seniors, pregnant women, and post-injury recovery.
Treadmill: Higher Impact (Risk of Injury)
Running can cause shin splints, knee pain, or stress fractures over time.
Walking is gentler but still higher impact than an elliptical.
Not ideal for those with joint issues or obesity.
Winner?
Elliptical (if joint health is a priority).
3. Muscle Engagement: Full-Body vs. Lower-Body Focus
Elliptical: Full-Body Workout
Engages legs, glutes, core, arms, and back (if using moving handles).
Mimics climbing or cross-country skiing for balanced muscle activation.
Great for toning without bulking.
Treadmill: Primarily Targets Lower Body
Focuses on quads, hamstrings, calves, and glutes.
Upper body gets minimal engagement unless you add incline or weights.
Better for leg strength and running endurance.
Winner?
Elliptical (for full-body toning).
Treadmill (for leg strength and running performance).
4. Versatility & Workout Styles
Treadmill: Best for Runners
Adjustable speed & incline for walking, jogging, sprinting, or hill training.
Best for training for races or improving running stamina.
Elliptical: More Workout Variety
Reverse motion targets different muscles.
Adjustable resistance & incline for HIIT, endurance, or strength.
Some models include programs like fat burn, interval, or heart rate training.
Winner?
Treadmill (if you love running).
Elliptical (if you want varied, low-impact workouts).
5. Space & Budget Considerations
Treadmill
Larger footprint—requires more space.
Higher-end models can be expensive.
Folding treadmills save space but may lack durability.
Elliptical
Compact designs (some fit in small spaces).
Generally more affordable than treadmills.
Quieter operation—better for apartments.
Winner?
Elliptical (for small spaces & budget-friendly options).
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Pick a Treadmill If You…
✅ Want maximum calorie burn (running).
✅ Are training for races or sprints.
✅ Don’t have joint issues.
Pick an Elliptical Cross Trainer If You…
✅ Need low-impact cardio (knee-friendly).
✅ Want a full-body workout.
✅ Prefer longer, sustainable sessions.
Ready to Choose? Explore Our Elliptical Trainers!
If you’re leaning toward an elliptical trainer for home, check out our best-selling ellipticals in Australia. We offer premium, space-saving, and affordable options to match your fitness goals.