elliptical lies?

[skulkarni101010]

Hey, i have just started working out for a couple weeks now. I tried the treadmill, and I can do about two miles, if I stretch it two and a half miles jogging and it takes me about 13 1/2 minutes per mile. However, on the elliptical machine I can go for a lot longer like 50 minutes, and I don't feel as though i've done as much and i can go for more miles, its usually around 3.75 and then i do a cooldown until 4 miles. Somehow, I feel that the elliptical machine is lying. I know this sounds weird, but how come it feels so much easier on the elliptical? Is hte machine better or do you burn less calories?

 

[Fil]

I'm skeptical as well, but I couldn't tell you honestly either way. It could be that they're using figures as though you were running, but it's easier because there's no impact.

Therefore, better cardio workout, less of a strain on bones, joints, and muscles.

 

[malkore]

I think a lot of it does have to do with zero impact vs. moderate impact.

However, its also really easy on elliptical and stairmaster to use your body weight to move the pedals...that's not the idea. You're supposed to keep your torso from bobbing up and down much, so that all emphasis is on the lower body. If you do it that way, its more taxing because you've lost the mechanical advantage of your full bodyweight.

 

[pumpster]

Try not to focus on the readings on the elliptical, the point is to progress using it's measures.

If the elliptical's too easy, increase the incline, increasing the tempo, increase the rigour of the program used. If you don't make it challenging enough, of course it won't compare. If you do, you'll see a difference.

 

[thedevil]

I too think the elliptical calorie readings are surprisingly higher. The elliptical at the hospital used for patients gives lower values than the Lifefitness equipment I use at the gym.