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Just my two cents, i think it'd be easier to get back into running from the ellyptical, but i have shitty knees, so running kills me, lol. i run, but i hate it! But it works to help me lose the weight, lol.
I think that running is marginally more effective, but the elliptical is a great alternative! It's much more low impact - I know for me, personally, running can be really hard on my knees! I use the elliptical all the time, because I am way more motivated to work out when I can watch tv at the same time! 
I gotta say...one of the reasons I haven't liked running is because I can't stand the C25K podcasts. Do you girls know how to make your own podcasts or download different ones? I have the Robert Ullreys ones.
The caloric burn difference is negligible.
The most important thing is you need to choose the exercise that will allow you to push yourself. If you slack on the elliptical but push yourself when running then you should run.
Good Luck!
Running burns more calories faster than the elliptical. The elliptical is a fantastic substitute for running if you have joint issues, but is still less effective. Having said that, it doesn't really matter which one is better if you hate running, because if you don't like it, you won't do it. So if the elliptical is something you think you can stick with- go for it! Have you considered swimming? That is the single best, least impact cardio exercise you can do. Good luck!
I also agree that from my own experience that it is easier to get into running by starting with the elliptical first. My knees start to hurt if I run much so I do weight lifting three days a week, ellipitical three days a week, and run on the treadmill one day a week just to switch it up. It's just what I made up - but it has worked for me so far. I will probably work my way up to running more as I go along.
I think it's because I'm so busy that the elliptical allows me to take a break and only do it once a week or so. Running requires real time and commitment.
I definitely have the right body type for running. My joints never hurt, I buy the expensive shoes to correct my over-pronation, and it feels really good to finish a run.
But I'd really like to lose weight and get in shape for LIFE, not just for the wedding, and I don't want to sell myself short by doing a workout that's not giving me the best results. I don't know if calorie=calorie in this case...I know the elliptical burns a similar amount of calories, but I think there's something unique about running that really shapes your body.
i've always wanted to run but can never get into it. I don't like all the impact from bouncing around on the ground. Elliptical is so much easier for me and I will actually do it. I do think that running is harder though and I burn more calories at it. But I still prefer elliptical.
I think the big advantage of running is it's easier to slack on the elliptical - slow down and go easy on yourself without really realizing it. Running is probably marginally better, but doing a workout you enjoy is better still.
Also - I think you're right. Getting into better cardiovascular shape on the elliptical or through another type of exercise will make it easier to get going if you start running (say, when the weather warms up).
The elliptical is better for your joints, but, honestly, if you want to get in the best shape and burn the most calories, run. I run a lot. I use the ellipitical when I'm feeling lazy and don't want to run :) You definitely can get a good workout on the ellipital, but it isn't going to do the same thing as going for a 5 mile run with hills, etc. However, doing something is the most important. If the elliptical gives you the most motivation, go for it.
running will definitely burn your calories faster.. if you were into running before and broke from it for awhile, it should be easier for you to get back into it though. personally i can't wait for the ice to go away so i can run on the sidewalks again - i hate running on a tread mill, i feel like i can't focus on anything besides huffing and puffing on a tread mill whereas running outside i can feel relax and just get into the rhythm of it. races are coming up soon with the warming weather! depending on what level you'd like to push yourself to maybe it would be good to set goals to complete a 5k or 10k or even a half marathon! it is a wonderful feeling when you are running in a race.
Bad knees = elliptical for me, plus I just hate running- so I put on a tv show that I like and it makes it manageable. A couple of years ago I spent my tax return on an elliptical- best use of that money ever!!
You know why you like the eliptical? It's easy. Your kidding yourself with the eliptical.
Although I agree that running is horrible on the joints - I can't do it b/c of that. I'd suggest trying something like a spin or step class.
Running is definitely WAY more effective for weight loss, from what I've read and researched. The elliptical is great but you have to do almost 1/3 longer time to get the same benefits from a run (eg 40:00 elliptical=30:00 running.) I think a great way to get back into running is to start alternating running with walking and build from there...Unfortunately, don't have any podcast recs for ya bc I've never used any of them, sorry! Also, don't forget to do some light weight lifting, since a mix of cardio and lifting is another effective weight-loss strategy!
Obviously you know your own body better, but those who mentioned knee problems with running, keep in mind sometimes the problem is as simple as strengthening your legs muscles (and often equalizing a muscle imbalance). I had chronic knee trouble all through college (dances classes 3-4 days/wk plus regular working out) and always thought I could only use the elliptical. I had a bad flare up about 6 months ago (constant throbbing even laying down) and went back to physical therapy. After a few months on the PT's routine of stretches and strength training, I can run with no problems at all! I'm up to about 3.5 mi 5-6 days/week and haven't had a single sign of pain. Definitely worth considering!
I think running just works out your body so much more than the elliptical - there are more benefits than just burning calories. Running strengthens your legs and your core because of the resistance to the ground while the elliptical takes away all resistance so you don't build muscles the same way. The elliptical is easier on your body, which is probably why you prefer doing it than running. If you can work out on the elliptical, you can definitely switch over to running - running is all mental once you've built up the basics.
I didn't really understand your comment about time - working out on the elliptical vs running should still take the same amount of time. At the end of the day, I don't think it matters if you do the elliptical or run as long as you're somehow MOVING. I definitely understand being busy and not having a lot of time to work out, but I really encourage you to try and make the time for yourself. Working out one day a week is a good start but you should build up to at least 2-3 workouts a week.
I like the elliptical. Not because it's easier. In fact my heart rate stays typically in the 150-180 range. I push myself HARDER on the elliptical than I do running. Running is incredibly hard on me. Use the arm pushers on the ellpitical and your arms get a work out too. I have exercise induced asthma though and while I enjoy a jog in nice weather, if it's too hot or too cold, I start wheezing. I don't wheeze inside though.
It all depends how hard you work at each. I've done 30 minute "jogs" on both the ellptical and running with a heart rate monitor and I burn more on the elliptical, more consistently. You can burn a crap load of calories on an elliptical in 30 minutes but it's a bear of a workout, too. But if you keep your elliptical at like, a 3, then yeah, it'll be 'easier' on you.
There are other more efficient cardio machines at the gym. These are cool: http://www.precor.com/comm/en/amt They're like suspended running machines. There is another one a trainer told me that burns the most calories. I can't find what it is online but it looks like this big square contraption. It works like an elliptical and a stepper in one motion--very large strides are needed, plus you can add resistance and arm movements. It feels awkward at first but it burns so bad the next day. It's not really a stepper and it's not really an ellptical.
In my opinion, the feeling after a good run can't be beat. I'm training for a half-marathon and after my long runs (8-10 miles) I tend to shy away from running again for 3-5 days afterwards and will use the elliptical to at least do something active. I enjoy the elliptical a lot when I use it, but the feeling of accomplishment after a solid run is the best. But honestly, there's nothing that says that you can't do both -- if you're looking to find a workout routine for life, doing both will help spice it up when/if you get bored with just doing one.
However, if in the short term you're having any issues motivating yourself to go for a run, just think about how you'll feel after and the look on your FH's face the moment he sees how AMAZING you look as you walk down the aisle. It's that image that I keep in my head whenever I'm thinking of not going or thinking of taking it easy on myself that day.
Good Luck, date twin! :)
Running is absolutely more beneficial for me. Then again, I live in PA where the hills are alive with the sound of joggers struggling to make it up the next incline. I run on a mix of pavement and gravel back roads with about three steep hills. It hits more muscles and pushes me harder than machines do for obvious reasons.
In my opinion, to get back into running, a run/wal routine is definitely a great way to do it. For weight loss, I think a combination of running and elliptical will help you achieve your goals, as long as you push yourself (without hurting yourself) so that your body does not get used to one over the other.
I agree with a lot of people here that objectively, running helps you lose weight faster, but if you can't get motivated to do it, elliptical is a good alternative. It's a lot easier to "coast" on the elliptical, or take it easy, but with running, thats not really possible.
Do you have a Nike+? I do and I LOVE mine. Like Miss Trail Mix, I don't use podcasts so I can't make suggestions on that front, but the Nike+ has helped my motivation. You put a chip in your shoe and plug a sensor into your iPod, and it calculates how far you've run, for how long, and how fast. You can play with lots of different settings where it will update your progress each mile, and if you plug your iPod into your computer after your run, it will upload your runs online and you'll be able to see a graph tracking your progress (length of runs, etc.) It also lets you choose a "pump up" song where if you start to slow down, they'll play a predetermined song that really motivates you. I love it!
I have a heart problem and running is too hard on me. My heart rate shoots through the roof and if I'm still running after 5 min, it's a HUGE accomplishment. I like elliptical because I can pace myself, easily measure my heart rate and keep it at a good balance.
I found what worked for me to really SHED the weight and tone up is rollerblading. Not like stand up straight slow rollerblading, but picture the speed skaters at the Olympics. With proper form, your legs and abs get a huge workout! It's easier for me to keep a steady pace with that too. I get too disheartened when I've only got to the end of my street running and I'm out of breath.. With other methods I go further and stay motivated to continue...
In my experience, I have found nothing that compares to running. I used ellipticals and bikes for a year and did see results. But I have been running only now for almost a year, and I have gotten results much, much faster. It's harder on your joints and much harder to keep up with, but I feel that it's worth the extra effort.
My knees are not in the greatest shape because I used to compete in figure skating from the time I was 6 til 13...so they are a little messed up and crack a lot...so i prefer to eliptial. However, after I am done lifting I will ususally take a brisk stroll on the treadmill for 15 minutes to cool down. I am just not a runner--it really takes a lot of stamina and determination and honestly, i just dont have it lol
I love the elliptical and make sure to pick the one with the moving arm things so I can tone my upper body while getting my cardio in. I find I'm able to workout at a higher intensity for longer than if I'm running. Mainly because I hate running and my knees go bad once in awhile.
But, honestly, I think variety is key. If you stick with any one thing, your body will get accustomed to it and won't need to work as hard (plateau). So alternating would probably be the best idea!
@sboston06 - if you're looking for a great running podcast check out "4 feet running", I absolutely love it!
If you don't have joint or other health problems that make running extra hard for you, I would go back to running. I was tricked by the elliptical at first. I used it for the first time a year ago at the gym when a treadmill wasn't available. Not that I trust the "calories burned" monitors on machines, but the elliptical was showing a TON more than the treadmill, and I didn't feel half as tired and worn out after the elliptical then I did with the treadmill. So I was like, "score! a better workout where I can be lazier!"
Yeah, I looked into it, and the general consensus in doing research was that the elliptical calories monitor thing was WAY off and always overestimated. Like I said, not that I trust the treadmil monitor, either, but people were in unison that the elliptical was just way, way off.
So now I'm back to strictly the treadmill. If I'm feeling particularly sluggish, I'll do a warm up on the elliptical to get me going, then hop on the treadmill for the second half. But I'm drentched in sweat after a full treadmill workout, and not so much after an elliptical workout of the same amount of time. It's just common sense for me.
But yeah, if you're aiming for a lifestyle change geared toward weight loss, I would say running is definitely better for that.
*I'm not at all bashing the elliptical, just sayin'.
This is a great discussion. I never understood why the elliptical, or the gazelle(my cardio of choice-- if they've got it at your gym, try it!) said I burned more calories than the same amount of time running. To me, I'm not a runner, and running is really hard for me. It took me being in shape for a 10K to be able to keep a pace without feeling awful, and it still sucked. But mentally, I don't feel like I'm in shape unless I can run a couple miles without dying. So i curse running till I'm in shape, get burned out after I do some kind of race and swear it off for a while... then get lured in by wanting to be really in shape. It's a vicious cycle. :-)
What are y'alls thoughts about swimming? How does the calorie burning compare to running? I hear its a really great non impact workout. Ironically, I was a lifeguard but i suck at swimming any distance, so I stick to the land exercising. :-)
edit: sorry to veer off from running/elliptical with swimming. :-) I was just curious.
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I lost a lot of weight a couple years ago with running and Weight Watchers, but I ended up gaining a lot of it back. Now I want to get a lot of it off and tone up for the wedding (have about 30 lbs to lose but I'd be happy with any loss!).
So I have this feeling that running is better than all other cardio. No supporting evidence at all - it's just what worked for me LAST time. I'm having trouble getting back into the running this time but I do enjoy the elliptical. Is there any reason I should run rather than other cardio? Is there any extra benefits that come from it? And if I get more fit from using the elliptical, will that make it easier to ease into a running routine? I finished C25K a few years ago, but even that is too hard for me now :/
Thanks for any advice anyone can give me!!