Elliptical Machine vs Step Machine
Which one fits your Cardio workout plan?
Contents
Elliptical Machine burns more per minute than Step Machine — MET 8 vs 7. Compare intensity, joint impact, and form for both Cardio options.
Compare the benefits of Elliptical Machine and Step Machine and pick the one that fits your Cardio workout.
Elliptical Machine vs Step Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Elliptical Machine more often — 1,438 sessions compared to 642 for Step Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Elliptical Machine and Step Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Elliptical Machine and Step Machine Differ
| What differs | Elliptical Machine | Step Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | quads, hamstrings, back, glutes, and triceps | quads, hamstrings, and glutes |
| Difficulty | 1 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 1,438 sessions | 642 sessions |
How to Do Elliptical Machine
Elliptical Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Face forward and keep your waist and head straight.
- 2. Keep your shoulders back, chest out, and lightly grip the handle.
- 3. Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to bend your waist.
- 2. Please be careful not to lean your body to one side.
For a full Elliptical Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Elliptical Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Step Machine
Step Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Place your foot on the pedal and hold the handlebar while standing.
- 2. Press down on the pedal with one foot at a time to take steps.
- 3. Move in a steady rhythm and do not bend your knees too much.
Coach's Tips
- Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes, and lift your feet completely.
For a full Step Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Step Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Cardio, Elliptical Machine or Step Machine?
Planfit users log Elliptical Machine more often — 1,438 sessions against 642 for Step Machine. Both train Cardio, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Elliptical Machine and Step Machine work the same muscles?
Not quite. Elliptical Machine loads quads, hamstrings, back, glutes, and triceps, and Step Machine loads quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
What equipment do Elliptical Machine and Step Machine need?
Elliptical Machine needs a machine, and Step Machine needs a machine.
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