Is the elliptical as effective as running?

Question

I want to lose weight, or at least extra fat, so I've been using an elliptical (about 30 mintues a day). I feel guilty for not jogging instead, since I don't feel as out of breath when I exercise on the elliptical. I'm going to start changing the mode on the elliptical (put it on random for hills or something). Can you replace using the elliptical for running? I feel awful after jogging but good after the elliptical.

Thanks so much!

Answer 1

I use an elliptical on my cross-training day (I alternate it every other week with the stationary bike), and I also use it the day before a big run to loosen my legs...

It's technically not really cross-training for running, since you're using a different set of muscles.

What I do to make the elliptical feel like a workout is, I try to keep my heart rate from 165-170 the whole time at a calorie burn of 810 per hour... Trust me, you will be sweating and will feel the workout... I try to stay on there for as long as I feel comfortable without getting dizzy or anything, it can be anywhere between 25 and 45 minutes.... It would be different for each person...

I see nothing wrong with making ONE day an elliptical day instead of jogging...

If you prefer the elliptical though and aren't training for anything then I don't see why you wouldn't just stick with the elliptical... My above statements are assuming you are training for some sort of running event.  

Answer 2

I use the elliptical because running gives me shin splints.  I also noticed that I lose more weight by using the elliptical.  I can go longer and I feel refreshed as where I run I feel tired afterwards.