Elliptical vs Running

Dahllywood
Dahllywood Posts: 642 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hey guys, so I used to run pretty frequently, about 12 miles a week. Lately I've been cutting back and trying to bulk up more, but I don't want to lose the overall benefit of good cardio. Is the elliptical a good enough replacement for running?

Replies

  • KisVihar
    KisVihar Posts: 6 Member
    Thanks for asking this...I was going to ask the same thing! Awaiting answers with interest! :) K
  • MrGonzo05
    MrGonzo05 Posts: 1,120 Member
    Depends on the intensity. You can get a great cardio workout on an elliptical so long as you push yourself! If you want to be great at running, you have to run too, so it's not a full replacement.
  • sijomial
    sijomial Posts: 19,809 Member
    It gets your heart rate up so yes it's good cardio.
    IMO elliptical and rowing machines have the greatest "bang for your buck" as they engage more muscles than steppers, treadmill and stationary cycles. Both also good for warm up.
  • Dahllywood
    Dahllywood Posts: 642 Member
    I mainly don't want to lose my abs :P. But seriously, I just know that running is great for overall fitness but I'm tired of it both physically and mentally and I just need a change (while bulking up at the same time)
  • Dahllywood
    Dahllywood Posts: 642 Member
    bump
  • KisVihar
    KisVihar Posts: 6 Member
    For me, the elliptical machine is the only real option, as I physically can't 'go running' now. (I have hip problems, and if one decides to go on strike when I'm mid-run, I'm in big trouble!) So at least I'm getting good Cardio. I just want to burn calories and lose weight. and work muscles - abs aren't high on my priority list.... :D
  • KelliW_runner
    KelliW_runner Posts: 150 Member
    Based upon your stated goals, I would think it could be. So could cycling. I would suggest intervals and if you have one use a HRM to get your heart rate above 80% of max (intervals into the 90-95%). If you want to maintain running speed and endurance for races, you probably have to suck it up and put in the miles but I've been replacing 1 of the 4 weekly runs with cycling and seems to help me meet my goals.
  • jaysonhijinx
    jaysonhijinx Posts: 663 Member
    I do a lot of weight lifting and play basketball as well so for for cardio I generally favour the Elliptical/Arc trainers over running (especially hard surfaces like concrete and *****umen) as there's next to no impact/shock and much easier on the joints. I've had knee issues in the past when I was much heavier and am just trying to preserve my knees as long as possible.

    I only tend to do short bursts as well of 10-20 minutes at a time with the resistance setting changing from medium to high and back again at 1-2 minute intervals.
  • fitnessgal1318
    fitnessgal1318 Posts: 70
    I'm an ex-runner (knee issues have side lined me). I lift weights regularly but enjoy spinning and HIIT workouts on the elliptical. If you push yourself hard enough during an HIIT workout, you will feel both exhausted and energized! There is lots of info here about HIIT workouts. Good luck!!

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