Running indoors.. Treadmill or Cross-Trainer?
 

Heya everyone.

Generally, I like to run outdoors at a trail that runs through the woods and has some elevation changes..

However, sometimes the weather is mediocre or I just want to run indoors, and when that is the case, I have the option of using either a treadmill or a cross-trainer.

The cross-trainer machine I am referring to has two "boots" that you step on, and travel in a forward, circular or backwards motion. It also has two "poles" that you can grab onto, and use, if you want to use your arms to "help."

My question is.. In terms of a more complete and beneficial workout.. Which of the two machines is better?

The treadmill actually has you running and "stomping" your feet (like running on the street/outside), while the cross trainer is more fluid and doesn't have you physically "stomping" your feet, as the legs move more in a circular motion.

I know that when I run on the street/trails my thighs flex every time I take a step, as they are meeting the solid gound and reacting.. I am not sure if this is good or not, but it's an observation, and something that does not occur on the cross-trainer machines.

That being said, does anyone prefer one over the other, or know that one is better to use than the other for a cardio/running workout?

Thanks!

Personally, I think treadmills are a waste of time if you want to actually run, because they do the pushing back of your feet for you. But they are good for cardio and keeping your heart rate up.

and that's the whole point of cardio. so it's not worthless. you don't gain strength from running.

anyways, i hate the elliptical machine (crosstrainer). i always end up feeling like i'm going backwards. but it's easy on the joints. so basically, do either one you want. since you trail run, the treadmill will probalby be better just becasue of being able to change both speeds and inclines. but it's also going to be harder on your joints than even the trail running.

I think elliptical Runners are the best. The will reduce injuries and you will get a good workout on them.

I'll use a cross trainer for 10 minutes or so as a warm-up on days that I lift and use the treadmill on cardio days in the winter (or if the weather's bad). As long as the weather's nice, I prefer running outside though.
Like a few people have said, cross trainers are easier on your joints, but they don't burn quite as many calories.

I would always use the cross trainer at the gym for like 25 minutes 3 days a week going at about 70 RPMs. I was like wow, I'm gonna be in good shape and be able to run a lot farther when the snow clears up. I noticed no difference in my body or running faster/longer. I was disappointed with the results and moved to the treadmill where I do 5 min walking, 15min running and then 3 min cool down and I noticed that my butt tightened up a bit and my calves got a little bigger. So I'd definitely say the treadmill.

I prefer the treadmill but nothing beats running outside.

You may see more results on a treadmill, but in the long run, your knees will thank you for an elliptical machine.

I'm using an elliptical machine for now until I can get my ankle checked out, and to be honest, it isn't the same as running. It has much more in common with a bike than with actual running. It feels more like a leg exercise/fat burning tool than a running simulator.

What should you use? Either, just be aware of the differences.

I've never been comfortable on an elliptical machine. Occassionally I get sore feet from running on a treadmill, as I usually run on a gravel trail near home, but I really prefer them. Oddly enough, it still feels like I'm going somewhere with the treadmill, whereas I can't really translate the feel of an elliptical with any sort of accomplishment.

Like I said, though, I've never liked the feel of an elliptical machine, so my views are heavily biased ;).

As others have said, find what you like more and stick with it - you'll be happier that way.

WarWagon's right, by the way, running is a lot harder on the frame. Just something else to keep in mind . . .