Benefits of running vs the elliptical

ellenkxxx
ellenkxxx Posts: 55 Member
edited January 17 in Fitness and Exercise
I keep hearing people rave about the benefits of running, but I also hear a lot about the dangers to your knees and feet etc. I do my cardio on the elliptical trainer at the gym. I use a low-ish resistance, but go fast for 60 mins 3x a week. I keep my heart rate about 160, and usually burn 700 calories according to my hrm.

I also do and hour of strength training 3x a week.

I'm aiming for fitness, but don't want to miss out on the toned legs and core that people get from running.

Thoughts?

Replies

  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    when you say running, do you mean indoors and on a treadmill? Or do you mean running outside in the sun or crisp night air and being lost in the sights/smells/sounds of the city/trail?

    If you're just talking treadmill vs elliptical, meh, do whichever one you enjoy the most. Less injuries on the elliptical, but it's not like the ER's are full of people with treadmill stress fractures. If you talking about lacing up some shoes and going outside, the choice is obvious.


    CcEExAV.gif
    4KNky.gif
    tEsYp24.gif
  • ellenkxxx
    ellenkxxx Posts: 55 Member
    when you say running, do you mean indoors and on a treadmill? Or do you mean running outside in the sun or crisp night air and being lost in the sights/smells/sounds of the city/trail?

    If you're just talking treadmill vs elliptical, meh, do whichever one you enjoy the most. Less injuries on the elliptical, but it's not like the ER's are full of people with treadmill stress fractures. If you talking about lacing up some shoes and going outside, the choice is obvious.


    CcEExAV.gif
    4KNky.gif
    tEsYp24.gif
  • ellenkxxx
    ellenkxxx Posts: 55 Member
    I wouldn't ever dream of running on a treadmill! Thanks fir the funny gifs though!
  • jogglesngoggles
    jogglesngoggles Posts: 362 Member
    For me, I actually run for "therapy" more than exercise. You naturally burn less calories running, and as my current stress fracture will tell you, it is hard on your body, but (corny saying ahead) SO good for the soul. I do a good mix of Zumba, Elliptical, Weight training and of course running! Since my injury I'm learning moderation in all things and you'll be just fine :)
  • ellenkxxx
    ellenkxxx Posts: 55 Member
    That makes sense. Thanks!
This discussion has been closed.

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