walking vs. elliptical

[Miranda]

My vote is definately "elliptical".

I have issues that I can not do impactive stuff exercise wise. Thus one reason why I pedal. Hard walking actually even bothers me a bit. To be honest, I don't enjoy walking either.

I do the elliptical when we are traveling in hotels (read: no pedaling options). I think it's a pretty good work out with no impact stress.

I think to be a good power walker you have to really be disciplined. In regards to your arms and pumping them for the cardio boost.

On the ellipital machine, the arms are constant

[Jolt]

Another vote for walking. There's the aforementioned bone building that you get from the impact, it's a natural motion while the elliptical is not, and let's face it, being outside is WAY better than stuck inside on some machine. That said, the elliptical can be a way to maintain some fitness while you have an injury (but then again, there's always swimming etc.).

[Possegal]

My feet go numb on the elliptical - and save the responses folks, I've tried EVERYTHING, it doesn't ever not happen, no matter what adjustments I've made, and I've done a lot of research into it.

So I much prefer a good power walk. My Pop was a racewalker (was actually supposed to go to the first modern Olympics in fact) so maybe it's just genetic for me.

I have done the elliptical for short periods of time in a full gym workout of weights and treadmill and such. But I can't do it for long periods where I like to go for an hour long walk, sometimes with a bit of a jog in with the walking too.

I say whatever you are more inclined to continue doing, that's the right thing to do.

[Grits]

It is almost impossible for me to get my heart rate up to a training level on the treadmill without having to increase my speed or incline to the point it hurts my knees. The elliptical gives me a much better, injury free workout.

Since I do walk outside when I can, and, of course, bike, I think it is good cross-training to do something different when I am inside. I also would just rather do the elliptical than the treadmill, and whatever you enjoy more, you are apt to do more!