Elliptical Machine vs. the Treadmill: Which Burns More Calories?
Both the elliptical machine and treadmill are popular choices for cardiovascular workouts, but which one burns more calories? The answer depends on various factors, including intensity, resistance, and personal fitness levels.
1. Caloric Burn Comparison
Generally, the treadmill tends to burn more calories per minute compared to the elliptical. Running at a moderate pace on a treadmill can burn approximately 600-800 calories per hour, depending on weight and speed. The elliptical, on the other hand, burns about 500-700 calories per hour. However, the elliptical can be just as effective if used at high resistance levels and intensity.
2. Impact on Joints
The treadmill provides a weight-bearing workout that can strengthen bones and muscles but may also put more stress on the joints. The elliptical, with its smooth, gliding motion, offers a low-impact alternative that reduces strain on the knees and hips, making it an excellent option for individuals with joint issues.
3. Muscle Engagement
The treadmill primarily works the lower body, focusing on muscles like the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. The elliptical, however, engages both the upper and lower body, thanks to the handlebars that work the arms, shoulders, and back, providing a full-body workout.
4. Versatility and Customization
Both machines allow for adjustable resistance and incline settings, but treadmills typically provide a broader range of intensity variations. The elliptical can be adjusted for resistance and reverse pedaling to target different muscle groups, offering a varied workout.
5. Which One Should You Choose?
The best machine depends on personal fitness goals. If calorie burn and intense cardio are the priority, the treadmill might be the better option. If joint health and a full-body workout are key, the elliptical is a great choice. Ultimately, incorporating both into a routine can provide the most balanced fitness benefits.
The number of calories burned depends on factors like weight, workout intensity, and duration. However, studies show that treadmill running burns more calories than elliptical training—especially during high-intensity workouts.
Calories Burned in 30 Minutes
| Exercise Machine | Calories Burned (155 lbs) | Calories Burned (185 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Treadmill (Running at 6 mph) | 372 kcal | 444 kcal |
| Treadmill (Walking at 3.5 mph) | 149 kcal | 178 kcal |
| Elliptical (Moderate Intensity) | 335 kcal | 391 kcal |
✅ Treadmill running burns the most calories per session.
✅ Elliptical workouts burn slightly fewer calories but are easier on the joints.
✅ Treadmill walking burns the least calories, unless you increase speed or incline.
Treadmill vs. Elliptical for Weight Loss & Fat Burning
1. Which Machine Is Better for Losing Belly Fat?
- Both help burn belly fat, but treadmill HIIT workouts (interval sprints + incline) burn fat faster.
- Elliptical workouts with resistance and high intensity can also help but may take longer for noticeable fat loss.
2. Joint Health & Impact
- Elliptical: Low-impact—ideal for knee pain, joint injuries, arthritis, and seniors.
- Treadmill: Higher-impact, especially running—may cause joint stress.
3. Muscle Engagement: Which Machine Tones More?
- Elliptical: Works upper body (arms, shoulders, core) and lower body (quads, hamstrings, glutes).
- Treadmill: Primarily strengthens the lower body and core, especially during incline training.
4. Best for HIIT & Fat Loss
- Treadmill: Best for HIIT workouts, incline training, and endurance runs.
- Elliptical: Great for high-resistance interval training (low-impact alternative).
Which Is Better: Elliptical or Treadmill?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
| Best For | Winner |
|---|---|
| Maximum Calorie Burn | Treadmill (Running) |
| Low-Impact Workout | Elliptical |
| Best for Knee Pain & Joint Health | Elliptical |
| Best for Strengthening Lower Body | Treadmill |
| Best for Full-Body Workout | Elliptical |
| Best for HIIT & Fat Loss | Treadmill |
| Best for Seniors or Beginners | Elliptical |
Elliptical vs. Treadmill: FAQ (Common Questions Answered)
1. Does the elliptical burn as many calories as the treadmill?
No. Treadmill running burns more calories, but elliptical workouts can be equally effective when done at high intensity with resistance.
2. Is the treadmill or elliptical better for belly fat?
Both machines help with fat loss, but HIIT treadmill workouts tend to be more effective for burning belly fat compared to steady-state elliptical workouts.
3. Is an elliptical good for weight loss?
Yes! Elliptical workouts can help you lose weight, especially when combined with resistance training and a calorie deficit.
4. Is the treadmill or elliptical better for bad knees?
If you have knee pain, arthritis, or injuries, the elliptical is the better option because it’s low-impact. Treadmill running can be hard on the joints, especially without proper footwear.
Final Verdict: Should You Use a Treadmill or an Elliptical?
- If you want maximum calorie burn and fast weight loss, choose the treadmill.
- If you prefer a low-impact, joint-friendly workout, the elliptical is the best choice.
- For best results, combine both machines to prevent plateaus and maximize fitness gains.
