The elliptical vs. the treadmill: Which is better for you?
Each cardio machine offers a little something different when it comes to toning and strengthening. Walk into a big gym, and you’ll probably hear the huffs and puffs of heavy breathing and the whirring and purring of cardio machines — lots of cardio machines. We’re talking treadmills, ellipticals, stair machines and rowers. There are so many options for stationary aerobic training that you can get lost in the noise, wondering which machine you should choose for your workout.
So to help you make a decision, we compare two of the most common machines: the treadmill and the elliptical. Both are decent tools to improve your aerobic fitness (hello, happy heart and happy lungs), but each comes with its own set of pros and cons.
THE TREADMILL
This device features a moving conveyor belt that allows you to walk, jog or run in place. On most treadmills, you can control the speed and incline, track your distance and pace, and even program interval training.
➤ What the treadmill targets: Running, jogging or walking on this machine will mainly target your lower body. Sprinting is really effective in tightening up your core as well. So if you hit a tough treadmill workout, look for the burn in your calves, glutes, hamstrings, quads and abs.
➤ When to use the treadmill: This machine is awesome for runners who want to avoid training in adverse weather. You can create a shorter high-intensity interval-workout by choosing your intervals and rest times. You also can focus on your running form without the high impact of running on concrete. However, since that conveyor belt is doing some of the work to propel you forward, the muscles in your legs and feet don’t engage as much to get you going. Outdoor running is ideal for mastering form, since treadmill running can cause some people to shorten their gait.
THE ELLIPTICAL
This machine looks like it’s built for stationary cross-country skiing, with two foot holders to place your feet on and two pole-like handles to grab onto. While your arms pump the handles back and forth, your feet cycle in the shape of an ellipse. You can go forward and backward on this machine. You also can increase the resistance to force your muscles to work harder.
➤ What the elliptical targets: The elliptical targets your hamstrings, quads, glutes and many of the muscles of the lower body. If you push and pull the handles, this machine can work on your arm and upper-back muscles. Because the elliptical engages the upper body, it can provide more of a full-body workout than the treadmill.
➤ When to use the elliptical: The elliptical is an excellent low-impact cardio option for overtrained, achy joints. So if you need a break from other highimpact activities, this machine might be a great alternative. Since you are able to move backward on the elliptical, it’s great for isolating your hamstrings and your glutes. You also can perform high-intensity interval-training workouts on the elliptical, making it a good tool for someone who has weight-loss goals.
5 BEST RUNNING SOCKS
Say goodbye to the blisters spoiling your fun runs with these socks, which are designed for professional runners.
Every piece of your running outfit is crucial for avoiding discomfort and injury when you hit the pavement, trail or treadmill. Even if you’re wearing the best running shoes, the wrong socks can leave you with sore, blistered feet and tender, black toenails. To find the best socks for running, the textile and fitness experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute considered fabric, construction, breathability and fit, along with real user feedback. These are the best running socks for both men and women in 2021:
Best Overall
Running Socks
Feetures Elite Light Cushion. With an anatomical design contoured to your feet, targeted compression and moisture-wicking fibers ward off blisters while stretching with your natural swell and splay, and a seamless toe enhances wearability. These socks are available in three cuff heights and three cushion levels. They hold their shape throughout your run, so the padding you feel at the beginning of your workout will feel just as springy at the end.
Best All-Weather
Running Socks
Darn Tough Vertex Ultra-Light Socks. A bestseller on Amazon, these socks provide a sturdy fit, complete with a heel tab and a deep heel pocket to prevent slippage, and they’re notably comfortable. The fabric wicks moisture, while mesh ventilation prevents feet from overheating, working together to prevent blisters. The sock also offers a nice stretch for runners with wider feet.
Best Anti-Odor
Running Socks
Balega Silver Antimicrobial Socks. The quick-drying synthetic fabric is treated with antibacterial silver ions that fight odor-causing bacteria, keeping feet cleaner while you sweat. Runners are able to track multiple runs in these socks between washes. Additionally, this snug-fitting sock offers some compression and arch support, with medium-weight padding to cushion feet during longer runs.
Best Anti-Blister
Running Socks
Injinji Run Lightweight Toe Socks. Injinji covers every bit of your skin to prevent all blisters and hot spots caused by skin-on-skin friction. Moisture-wicking, lightweight material and a seamless construction enhance protection from blisters, while arch support keeps the socks securely in place. This minimalist sock design allows your foot to move and splay as naturally as if you were barefoot.
Best Eco-Conscious
Running Socks
Rockay Accelerate Running Socks. These socks are made with 100-percent recycled materials, and you can wear the socks multiple times between washes. They also come with a 40-day return period and a lifetime blister-free guarantee, so you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a cleaner conscience.