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
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Comparison Chart
Nature of Motion
Smooth, mimics running without the impact.
Authentic walking/running in place.
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Body Engagement
Engages both upper and lower body.
Primarily focuses on lower body.
Impact Level
Low-impact, gentler on joints.
Can be high-impact, especially during running.
Space Requirement
Might be bulkier in width.
Typically requires more length.
Best for
Comprehensive workout & joint safety.
Simulating outdoor running & training.
Compare with Definitions
Elliptical
A machine designed to minimize joint stress during exercise.
After her knee injury, she preferred the elliptical to avoid impact.
Treadmill
A machine allowing one to walk or run in place.
He ran five miles on the treadmill every morning.
Elliptical
A device with pedals and handles for full-body workouts.
The elliptical at the gym provides both leg and arm resistance.
Treadmill
An apparatus used in stress tests in medical settings.
The doctor monitored his heart rate on the treadmill during the test.
Elliptical
Speaking with deliberate omission for brevity or effect.
His elliptical response left us wanting more details.
Treadmill
An exercise device with adjustable speed and incline.
She increased the treadmill's incline to intensify her workout.
Elliptical
A stationary exercise machine for simulating running.
She spent 30 minutes on the elliptical for her cardio workout.
Treadmill
A term symbolizing monotonous or repetitive tasks.
Working a 9-to-5 job felt like being on a never-ending treadmill.
Elliptical
Refers to an elliptic or oval shape.
The elliptical design of the stadium was breathtaking.
Treadmill
A device historically used to harness animal power.
The museum showcased a vintage treadmill powered by horses.
Elliptical
Of, relating to, or having the shape of an ellipse.
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.
Elliptical
Containing or characterized by ellipsis.
Treadmill
A wheel with steps on which a person treads, used to power machinery.
Elliptical
Of or relating to extreme economy of oral or written expression.
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.
Elliptical
Marked by deliberate obscurity of style or expression.
Treadmill
A monotonous routine or set of tasks.
Elliptical
In a shape of, or reminding of, an ellipse; oval.
Treadmill
A piece of indoor sporting equipment used to allow for the motions of running or walking while staying in one place.
Elliptical
Of, or showing ellipsis; having a word or words omitted.
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.
Elliptical
(of speech) Concise, condensed.
Treadmill
A mill worked by horses, dogs, etc., treading an endless belt.
Elliptical
Elliptic.
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.
Elliptical
(astronomy) An elliptical galaxy.
Treadmill
(intransitive) To exercise on a treadmill.
Elliptical
An elliptical trainer.
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.
Elliptical
Containing or characterized by ellipsis;
The clause of comparison is often elliptical
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.
Elliptical
Rounded like an egg
Treadmill
An exercise device consisting of an endless belt on which a person can walk or jog without changing place
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
Treadmill
A mill that is powered by men or animals walking on a circular belt or climbing steps
Treadmill
A job involving drudgery and confinement
Common Curiosities
Can treadmills help improve my uphill running?
Yes, treadmills with incline settings can help train for uphill running conditions.
Which is better for joint health: elliptical or treadmill?
The elliptical is generally considered better for joint health due to its low-impact nature.
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.
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.
Why do some treadmills have heart rate monitors?
Monitoring heart rate ensures users remain in a target zone for optimal fitness results and safety.
Which machine offers a better full-body workout?
Ellipticals with movable handles offer a comprehensive upper and lower body workout.
Which machine is better for training for a marathon?
A treadmill would be more appropriate for marathon training as it simulates actual running conditions.
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.
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.
Which machine occupies more space?
While it varies by model, treadmills generally require more length, and ellipticals might be wider.
Do ellipticals provide a realistic running experience?
Ellipticals mimic the running motion but without the impact, so the experience differs from actual running.
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.
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.
Do ellipticals offer variable resistance like treadmills' incline settings?
Yes, most ellipticals allow users to adjust resistance levels to vary workout intensity.
Can ellipticals help improve balance?
Yes, the coordinated motion of ellipticals can aid in enhancing stability and balance.
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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.
