X trainer or running machine? ?

Question

When I run on the running machine at the gym it tells me that I have hardly used any calories, but when I go on the cross trainer it tells me I have used loads of calories. I know the machine calculators are only approximate, but the running machine seems like a lot harder work and I get out of breath more on it. Should I listen to the machine or my body?

Answer 1

yeh lily's right, the treadmill is higher impact, your body isnt cushioned by anything through your feet, like it is on the x-trainer, so it feels like you're doing more.

imagine the calories you lose by moving your legs on the treadmill... then imagine the calories you use by moving your legs AND arms on the x-trainer. ok so i know you move your arms when running too, but when on the x-trainer you're moving your arms against a resistance. so basically what i'm trying to say is... use a x-trainer! esp. if you wants to lose calories!

the treadmill will work you harder, therefore increase ur heart rate and therefore is great for improving fitness. BUT if ur trying to lose weight, ur heart rate needs to be working at a less rate, therefore using a x-trainer is ideal. plus there are many different settins on it, like aerobic training, fat burn etc, makes it less boring :)

Answer 2

Hi

I'm sounding so repetitive lol, I'm a qualified fitness instructor/ personal trainer and I would like to try and shed a little light on the subject.

The X trainer uses both upper and lower limbs, your hands are moving the handles back and forth as your feet push the sliders back and forth in a rhythmic motion. This requires your heart to pump blood in a greater amount to them and thus using more calories. The running machine can feel harder due to the high impact nature of it.

That being said, you can alter the settings on both machines to increase their intensity. Also with good quality running machines you can change the incline settings to simulate running up hill which will definitely increase the calories you burn on it.

When your next at the gym, speak to one of the instructors, pick their brains, they are there for you.

Best wishes for your training,

J

Answer 3

listen to your body. the x trainer is great for overall weightloss without the impact.  the treadmill is higher impact, so maybe it feels as though you are working harder. I use both and i love the x trainer, i've previously lost a lot of weight using this machine, but I've recently discovered the joys of jogging and that does seem harder.