For those who exercise, which is better, elliptical trainer or stationary bike?

Question

I will be using it at home. I have a stationary bike, but I don't use it that often. When I do, I feel like I'm not working out that much because I'm sitting. I was thinking of selling it and buying my friend's elliptical trainer because it is more of a work out, but I just hope I don't get burned out on it. I am a beginner when it comes to exercising and I don't want to over do it right now.
I only have room in my small house for one. Which do you think is the best choice?

Answer 1

I personally prefer the elliptical trainer. Both provide low-impact workouts, which is great for your joints, but the elliptical trainer provides a more balanced workout - but only if the elliptical has arm-swing handles. On the other hand, you could achieve the same results by incorporating some light dumbell exercises into your bike routine.

However, a traditional exercise bike (the non-recumbent kind) puts pressure on the nerves in certain highly sensitive "areas" of the body, which (especially in men) can result in an unpleasant sensation (after a long workout session), and in extreme cases, nerve damage.

The real problem isn't the machinery, though, it's motivation. Staying motivated is very tough, especially if you're planning on working out at home. If you're not using your bike, chances are that, sooner or later, you'll get bored or frustrated with the elliptical, and will quit using it, too. Point being, you might not NEED to invest all that money in an elliptical trainer.

The key is to keep your exercise routine from becoming "routine," if you get my meaning. If you do the same 30 minutes on the elliptical, 3-4 days a week, week in and week out, you're eventually going to get bored and quit.

So mix things up: if you don't have access to a gym (and joining one can be an expensive pain in the rear), buy some exercise DVD's and a set of light dumbells. Give the Swiss Ball a try (most of them come with a DVD or a manual). Go hiking or swimming or rock climbing or kayaking. Or heck, just take a nice long, brisk walk around the neighborhood, and mix in some running when you get up to it. Whatever, but most people aren't fanatical enough to do the same workout every single time for years on end. It's good to do something different, even if it's only once a week.

Answer 2

Stationary bike and treadmill is harder on the knees. Elliptical trainer seems to give me a better workout without the stress on the joints. Oranges are loaded with Vitamin C which keeps your immune system healthy and helps to ward off colds and flu.

Answer 3

elliptical trainer gives a harder workout BUt does occupy as much space if not more than a bike
Use with while listening to fav music
set a limit in the beginning to do to while listening to ____amount of songs

Answer 4

Elliptical. Not only does it give you a good cardio workout & work your legs (like a bike does) , but, it also works your core b/c you have to keep yourself standing & in good posture (not leaning forward & stomach sucked in) while doing it.

Answer 5

eliptical is the way to go, do it at a high setting, not so high you cant do it.. but high that its hard for u, and do it untill your legs start shaking. listening to music is a good way to push yourself too. listen to something that gets you pumped up

Answer 6

elliptical is much better.