Which is better - an exercise bike or a treadmill? What is more effective: a treadmill or an exercise bike?

18.10.2019

The modern pace of life often leaves no time to enjoy training in the gym. Therefore, many are forced to study at home. But regular exercises and dumbbells will not replace the full loads that exercise machines can provide. Therefore, sooner or later the question arises, which is better: a treadmill or an exercise bike - in terms of effectiveness for weight loss and impact on health. To do this, you need to compare both machines.

First, decide on your goals. Answers to basic questions will help you choose the right unit:

  • In what problem areas do I want to lose weight?
  • What muscles do I need to build?
  • how many kgs do I want to lose?
  • How many calories per day should I burn?
  • How long does it take to lose weight?
  • How regularly can I exercise?
  • Do I have any contraindications for training?

The last question is especially important. The most correct step is to go to the doctor first. The presence of certain diseases can be a decisive answer to the question of what is better for you - a treadmill or.

You will also have to take into account not only their effectiveness in terms of weight loss, but also many technical characteristics. And for this you need to know when they are recommended to be used, and in what cases the acquisition is fraught with failure.

Treadmill

The runner is a familiar exercise machine for many. Modern models are equipped with electronic sensors and numerous built-in fitness programs that will calculate everything for you: activity intensity, heart rate, calories burned, etc.

In what cases is it worth making such a powerful acquisition, and in what cases is it categorically not recommended? Let's find out.

When to take it

To make a treadmill worth the money spent on it, it is recommended if you need:

  • get rid of cellulite;
  • lose weight in your legs;
  • remove belly;
  • tighten your figure;
  • continue running as you did before;
  • work out the calf muscles, buttocks, thighs and abs;
  • burn up to 500-900 kcal per hour;
  • save space in the apartment, as modern models are easy to fold and put away;
  • improve coordination of movements by training stabilizer muscles.

In terms of load, a treadmill is better than an exercise bike, as it forces more muscles to work. This means that weight loss with its help is much more intense, since almost all problem areas are modeled.

When not to take

Along with all its advantages, it has a number of disadvantages. It would be a mistake to purchase this canvas if you have problems with:

  • varicose veins;
  • heart;
  • lungs;
  • spine and joints: with a weight of more than 100 kg, there is a very high risk of injury;
  • space in the apartment: despite the fact that some folding models are very ergonomic, when used they are much larger than exercise bikes;
  • money: they are more expensive;
  • neighbors: the noise made by the path can cause discord, and it will not allow a small child to sleep, so take this factor into account;
  • physical training: if you have never done running or sports at all before, at first you will be able to just walk, but is it worth spending that kind of money for this?

In order not to harm your own health, carefully study all the pros and cons. And if you understand that there are more of the latter, you should pay attention to the alternative option.

Exercise bike

Not as popular as the treadmill, and there are a number of reasons for this. Firstly, not everyone drives. Secondly, it gives a more gentle load. But most people want to lose as much weight as possible, and they tend to exaggerate their physical data. Thirdly, it does not so much dissolve fat as it works muscles.

Let's take it

You can safely take an exercise bike if you need:

  • smooth the orange peel on the thighs and buttocks;
  • make the leg muscles more prominent and pumped up;
  • prevent the development of varicose veins at the initial stage;
  • improve cardiovascular system performance;
  • work the hamstrings, thighs, calf and quadriceps muscles, abs;
  • spend about 300-600 kcal in 1 hour of training;
  • lose a lot of kilograms (if you are obese);
  • save space in the apartment (size allows);
  • save money;
  • ensure silence, since the noise effect is much lower than from a treadmill.

Thus, if you have problems with the musculoskeletal system, in order not to expose your joints to the enormous loads that await them when exercising on a treadmill, it is better to purchase an exercise bike. It is worth considering the fact that it is safer and does not pose any risk of injury. It is recommended for training in obesity, the elderly and children, as well as people who have health problems.

We don't take it

An exercise bike will not be a very good purchase if:

  • varicose veins turned into thromboembolism;
  • It is not only the lower part of the body that needs to be tightened and made beautiful;
  • your task is to burn as many calories as possible;
  • I want to lose weight as quickly as possible.

So the exercise bike also has its negative aspects.

Selected moments

And finally, we finally decide which exercise machine is best for weight loss and health, considering more specific points.

  • Cellulite

To get rid of cellulite, you need to improve the blood supply to the problem area. In this regard, both a treadmill and an exercise bike are equally good.

  • Slimming legs

If you need a leg slimming machine, it is better to buy a treadmill. The fact is that the exercise bike will pump them up, that is, fat deposits are converted into muscle tissue, but visually they will remain full, albeit more prominent.

There is no clear answer to the question of which is better - an exercise bike or a treadmill. Each of the exercise machines has a lot of advantages and will help you quickly tone your body muscles, get rid of a couple of extra pounds, and feel a surge of strength and energy after a working day spent at the office desk. In order to make the right choice, you need to take into account many factors, for example, age and health, the ability to regularly visit the gym or the need to buy a machine for your home. The best way to figure out what will most effectively help you achieve the desired result is to study the advantages and disadvantages of various cardio equipment.

All about exercise bikes

A home exercise bike is a great way to enjoy cycling in winter and on rainy days. Modern models make it possible to very accurately reproduce the movements performed during real driving. Regular exercise will help normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, improve the general condition of the body, and develop endurance. The main load falls on the muscles of the legs and gluteal muscles; the abdominal muscle groups are partially involved in the work.

Exercise bikes have a number of undeniable advantages:

  • if running or walking to lose weight is impossible due to varicose veins or joint problems, then a stationary bicycle will be the best solution;
  • modern designs are characterized by excellent biomechanics, allowing natural movements with minimal stress on the joints;
  • Manufacturers offer horizontal models that are ideal for those who experience back problems - they completely relieve the load from the lower back;
  • the exercise bike can be safely used by people of different ages for exercise of varying intensity;
  • Equipping exercise bikes with training computers allows you to reproduce riding on different terrain and use interval training to quickly burn fat;
  • a wide range of models, a large selection of functional economy class exercise equipment at an affordable price.

A significant disadvantage of an exercise bike is the inability to include the upper body in active work. This is very important for those who spend most of the day sitting. It is for them that when choosing an exercise bike or an elliptical trainer, it is better to choose the latter, which provides active, dynamic training for the whole body. Because of this feature, an exercise bike is not the best model for people who want to quickly lose weight through cardio training.

Stationary bikes are compact, mobile, silent, often foldable and can be put away in the closet after training. Those who love an active lifestyle often have a treadmill or exercise bike at home, but in small apartments, most people choose a bike, which can even be installed on the balcony.

All about treadmills

Running or cycling - which is better for losing weight? An hour of intense exercise on the treadmill will help you get rid of 500-700 calories, and almost all muscle groups of the body will be involved in the work. Modern exercise machines have expanded functionality that allows you to move at different speeds and adjust the inclination of the running belt. All family members can exercise effectively on a home treadmill: a leisurely walk is suitable for older people or those recovering from an injury, brisk walking and jogging are suitable for more prepared users, and if the load seems insufficient, you can set the running belt at an angle from 0 to 15 degrees, which will significantly increase effort and calorie consumption while covering the distance.

Treadmills are very popular due to the following benefits:

  • There are models on sale in different price categories - from the simplest mechanical to computerized electromagnetic;
  • Beginners and experienced athletes can exercise productively on the same simulator;
  • on the simulator you can run and walk at different speeds;
  • during movement, the muscles of the legs and back work most actively, the abdominal muscles and muscles of the shoulder girdle are also involved;
  • Regular running will help you quickly lose weight, improve coordination and endurance, it helps saturate the blood with oxygen and improves lung function.

However, treadmills also have their disadvantages:

  • exercise machines do not operate silently, and when people with heavy weights exercise, vibration is added to the noise;
  • for jogging you need special sports shoes;
  • while running, a significant impact load is directed onto the joints of the legs and spine, and if the running technique is incorrect, this can lead to serious consequences;
  • Treadmills take up a lot of space.

Alternative options

There are great alternatives to treadmills and exercise bikes for active cardio workouts. The simplest of them is the stepper. A small and compact exercise machine can be installed in any convenient place at home or in the office. With its help, they perform a simple exercise that simulates climbing stairs. At its core, a stepper is an endless staircase, movement along which effectively strengthens the muscles of the lower body, making them elastic and prominent.

Another option is orbitrek. The elliptical is deservedly considered one of the most effective machines for cardio training. Only it is equipped with movable handles, which allows you to fully load the upper body. Compared to other aerobic exercise equipment, it provides maximum calorie burn during intense training.

For various problems with the joints of the legs and spine, varicose veins and flat feet, and severe heart disease, doctors prohibit training on treadmills. For this category of people, the question of which is better, a treadmill or an elliptical trainer, is irrelevant. Only the ellipsoid ensures the absence of shock loads, and therefore the ability to run or walk without harm to your health.

In addition, the Orbitrack is considered the No. 1 exercise machine for those who want to lose weight, so it is very popular among women. An hour of intense training consumes up to 800 calories, which is, without a doubt, a very good result.

What's better?

Depending on the goal, everyone chooses cardio or strength training for themselves. For aerobic training, manufacturers offer a huge number of exercise machines from economy to luxury class, available to different categories of buyers - after all, price becomes one of the main factors when choosing. Don’t forget about the availability of free space in the apartment. The most compact are steppers and exercise bikes, while a treadmill or ellipsoid will require much more space.

A treadmill or elliptical trainer for weight loss will be the best choice as it will provide maximum energy expenditure and quick results. But if a person experiences pain in the back or legs, they should immediately abandon the treadmill. In this case, it is clear: the question of what is better is an exercise bike or an elliptical trainer, or a treadmill, there is no question, since only the first two machines guarantee the absence of overload of the spine, knee and ankle joints.

What is better to choose for running: a treadmill or a machine?

Today, many people who take care of their body are wondering what is better: an exercise bike or a treadmill. In order to answer this question, let's consider the pros and cons of both sports equipment.

The advantage of a treadmill over an exercise bike

The treadmill allows you to get a greater load on all muscle groups, and the athlete’s entire body is worked out more harmoniously. It is very effective and the average energy consumption of the body during training will be about 1000 kilocalories.

During training on the track, free running is simulated, with the expenditure of a large number of kilocalories to move the body in space.

Contraindications for running on a treadmill

  1. The treadmill is contraindicated for people who are overweight. People who have problems with the respiratory system or joints also need to train especially carefully. No matter how perfect the shock absorption system is, there is a shock load on the joints of the legs until pain appears in the knees.
  2. People with venous diseases should exercise with caution. With varicose veins, training on a treadmill can become a factor that aggravates the course of the disease.
  3. If a person works out at home, then he must be prepared to allocate a fairly large area for this equipment; at a minimum, it should be an area measuring one meter by one meter.

Advantages of exercise bikes over treadmills

There are two types of exercise bikes: vertical and horizontal. Recumbent exercise bikes are suitable for people with large excess body weight, who will sit comfortably with their legs stretched out.

One of the advantages of exercise bikes is their low cost compared to a treadmill. Exercise bikes are small in size, this is an important point for those who exercise at home and do not want to take up extra living space with sports equipment; there are also folding models on the market. This model of cardio exercise machine can even be stored in a closet or on the balcony.

Training on an exercise bike is suitable for all people, especially older people, to maintain health and the cardiovascular system.

If we consider the question of which equipment is more effective, we can note the following point: during training, the thigh muscles are actively worked, and the upper body is almost static, so you can read a book or watch TV without experiencing any particular inconvenience.

An exercise bike compared to a treadmill will provide a more gentle exercise option. The only negative is that during training only the legs, lower abdomen and back will be strengthened. During training, there is no impact load on the leg joints, which is an undeniable advantage of an exercise bike if a person has back or joint problems. Average energy consumption during training will be about 600 kilocalories.

It is important to understand that even a very active workout on an exercise bike will not allow you to immediately burn excess fat on the entire body; the extra pounds will quickly disappear only from the legs, and only then gradually from other parts of the body.

Treadmills are several times more expensive than exercise bikes. Of course, there are different models of both types of cardio equipment. Modern mid-level and higher simulators contain a set of sensors that measure vital parameters, such as pulse and blood pressure, displays with a huge number of training programs, and sockets for connecting mobile gadgets. But, in general, in the same price category, an exercise bike will cost two to three times less.

Many people who do not have much experience in training find it very difficult to choose a machine to buy to train at home. Or even when you come to a fitness club, there are two exercise machines, one of which simulates cycling, and the other running. As you understand, this article will talk about which exercise machine is better, for training in the gym or at home? Let's look at each point in order.

Treadmills and exercise bikes are very effective workout tools. Both types of simulators are quite popular and are produced by a fairly large number of different companies. Such sports equipment has many functions to obtain one or another load, depending on your level of training. Both machines are in most cases equipped with sensors that show your heart rate during exercise, which is very important. However, before choosing exercise equipment, it is important to know about the main differences that will affect you. To understand in more detail what is best to buy, let's look at such equipment separately.

TREADMILL

From my experience, this is the most popular simulator, which is used by quite a large number of people, including myself. The fact is that I myself prefer this particular device, so to speak, because I really like to run. In addition, running is a type of cardio exercise that allows you not only to improve the functioning of your cardiovascular system, but also perfectly warms up all the muscles of the body. That is, in most cases, I recommend that everyone use a treadmill, at the beginning and end of a workout, for warming up immediately before exercise, and for cooling down after exercise.

It is an excellent way for all kinds of aerobic exercise. In addition, as I mentioned above, it is great for cardiovascular training. If you are losing weight, it will become your indispensable assistant in losing extra pounds of fat. It will also be useful to you when gaining muscle mass, as it allows you to warm up your whole body well before performing heavy strength exercises. In addition, you can perform a very large number of exercises on it, as well as perform various cardio methods, for example.

Who is this simulator intended for?

If you want to lose weight throughout your body, make the muscles of your whole body more toned and harmoniously developed, you need to take a treadmill. Also, if you like to run, engage in intense physical activity, want to improve your posture, improve your gait, and so on, again, this is the machine you need.

If you do not have any problems with the knee joints, ankles, and there are no problems with the spine, only in this case can you afford to exercise on this exercise machine, otherwise, it is better to choose an exercise bike to stay safe and sound. Go down a little lower, in the “Pros and Cons” section we discussed this issue in more detail.

EXERCISE BIKE

Of course, this device is also very popular in the world of fitness. It is also quite functional and has its advantages. However, I still prefer the treadmill. A little later we will look at all the pros and cons of both machines, but now let's take a closer look at the simulator that simulates riding a bicycle.

There are several types of simulators, namely: inclined And straight. The inclined shape of this device for home training means that in such a simulator the pedals are placed far forward and are somewhat reminiscent of the shape of a pedal boat. As for straight exercise bikes, they are more like simple bicycles.

Why do you need such a simulator?

Such a unit is also quite well suited for warming up the leg muscles, since mainly, due to the fact that the simulator stands still, the leg muscles work mainly, and the upper body is practically not involved. Therefore, if you train in the gym, you can use this machine on leg day. It is great for home workouts, and also if a person wants to lose weight and get rid of some excess fat, an exercise bike will also come in handy in such a situation.

Who is it for?

If you want to lose some weight, tone up your leg muscles, or just love cycling, then this is the best choice for home workouts. However, many cyclists complain that this device is not very convenient, since the distance between the pedals is quite large compared to a bicycle. It is, of course, up to you to decide. Besides, if a person has any problems with the back, joints, etc., it is best to choose an exercise bike, since it removes quite a large load from the spine and knee joints due to the fact that you do all physical work while sitting and not standing.

PROS AND CONS OF TEACHING TRAIL AND EXERCISE BIKE

It is great for both training in the gym and training at home. It is good because it allows you to completely simulate running on the street. Since our country has a rather changeable climate. The weather doesn't always allow us to go for a run in the fresh air. In addition, the obvious advantage of the walkway is that it has enough space and can accommodate most people, whereas in exercise bike you need to select it very carefully, because the length of everyone’s arms and legs is different, so you need to select the exercise machine individually for yourself and look at possible limitations. In terms of weight, both cars have limitations.

As mentioned above, treadmill has the ability to allow a person to imitate walking, fast walking, running. All these movements, to one degree or another, involve the spine, load the knee joints, ankles, hips, and so on. This is a big minus of the simulator. If you do not have any health problems related to the listed body parts or joints, then you can safely choose a treadmill. Exercise bike ideal for people with arthritis or all kinds of back problems, and this is a very big plus, since by doing the exercise while sitting, it significantly reduces the load on the spine.

Injury situations in the gym most often arise due to treadmills, since people, when running on a machine, are very often distracted, overthinking, and so on, which leads to loss of balance and the person falls. If a person exercises for too long, a situation is possible when the athlete loses consciousness. This, of course, can happen in any exercise machine, but if you lose consciousness on a treadmill, it will be much more dangerous than, for example, on an exercise bike.
If your main goal is to burn excess fat and it doesn’t matter to you whether you have to run or pedal, of course, in such a situation, a treadmill is a big plus, since it is when running that our body burns a large number of calories, especially if you also use interval training. This is because you activate a large number of muscles on the treadmill, and significantly less on the exercise bike. However, this does not mean that you cannot burn the same number of calories on an exercise bike as running, you just need to increase the intensity of your workout.

The family budget and price orientation are the main factors when a person has a choice to buy treadmill or exercise bike. While both machines can be found at reasonable prices, treadmills generally cost more. In addition, the downside is that the treadmill is quite large and takes up a lot of space in the house, while a machine with pedals is quite compact and will not take up much space.

CONCLUSIONS

So, you have read everything, now you can draw a completely logical conclusion. Who should choose a treadmill? If your main goal is to lose excess weight and it doesn’t matter to you how you will do it, choose this device. Also, if you do not have any problems with your back, joints, etc., also choose this machine. Pay attention to the dimensions, since the track is quite large and will not fit in every house or apartment.

In which case should you choose? exercise bike? In my opinion, there are several reasons why you should choose it. First, if a person has any back problems and second, if the athlete likes cycling. So, if the question arises: treadmill or exercise bike, I would definitely choose a treadmill. Good luck everyone!

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Spirits Power

Not everyone can afford to have a whole arsenal of exercise equipment at home. Sometimes you have to limit yourself to one or two settings, and then the question involuntarily arises: which sports unit to choose?

This article will help you figure out which is better - treadmill or exercise bike.

Useful advice! Before making a choice in favor of or, you need to try working out on each of these equipment. The installation may perfectly suit you in terms of functions, but be inconvenient, then you will simply throw money down the drain.

Who should use an exercise bike and who should use a treadmill?

It is worth considering purchasing an exercise bike for those who:

  • wants to strengthen the muscles of the lower body, in particular the legs;
  • wants to tighten his hips;
  • is at risk of developing varicose veins or has problems with joints and feet.

During classes, the muscles of the thighs, buttocks, calves are involved, the abs and abdomen are partially worked.

Consider buying a treadmill if you:

  • want to strengthen the muscles of the whole body;
  • want to get rid of fat deposits in the abdomen and abdominal area;
  • love running.

During classes, the muscles of the legs and back are involved, the muscles of the abdomen, waist, and abs are partially worked.

Advantages and disadvantages of an exercise bike

Advantages Flaws
1. It is compact in size and can be placed in any corner of the apartment. It only affects the lower part of the body, which means that it is impossible to achieve a slim, beautiful figure with its help alone.
2. Independent of electricity. Monotonous actions can quickly get boring.
3. It is a safe design. Sitting for a long time can lead to a stiff neck and back.
4. During classes, you can not be distracted from watching any TV show. Exercises on it are contraindicated for people with the following diseases: asthma, heart failure, dizziness, tachycardia, spinal injuries.
5. Much lighter in weight than a treadmill, it can be easily moved from one place to another.
6. People with different health conditions can exercise. Especially suitable for those for whom running is contraindicated.
7. Features silent operation.
8. Exercise significantly strengthens the cardiovascular system.
9. In an hour of training you can burn about 500 kcal.

Advantages and disadvantages of a treadmill

Advantages Flaws
1. Involves muscles throughout the body. It has a serious effect on the legs and joint problems may occur.
2. Allows you to lose weight evenly. Too noisy.
3. Exercises contribute to rapid achievement of results, since walking and running are familiar to a person. You can also note the monotony of actions.
4. The presence of a large number of programs allows you to adjust the load: from walking to fast running. It poses an increased danger, especially for children, since the tape is in constant motion.
5. Running increases the body's endurance, improves heart function, lung condition, and promotes the supply of oxygen to the blood. Dependent on electricity.
6. In an hour of training you can burn about 700 kcal. It requires too much space and has an impressive weight, which will not allow you to move it from one place to another.
7. Unlike an exercise bike, it uses the muscles of the back and neck. Contraindicated for people with diseases of the legs, joints, and feet.

Conclusion

Let's summarize. When choosing between a treadmill and an exercise bike, you should consider:

  • apartment area;
  • personal preferences;
  • state of health, presence of injuries, chronic diseases.

Comparative analysis:

  • An exercise bike allows you to pump up your leg muscles and burn excess fat in the lower body, while a treadmill allows you to lose weight more intensely throughout your entire body.
  • Due to its simplicity, an exercise bike is much cheaper, and a treadmill has a large number of programs that do not allow exercise to become monotonous.
  • An exercise bike is more compact, while a treadmill takes up a lot of space in the apartment.
  • An exercise bike is ideal for beginners, a treadmill is for trained athletes.