Cardio Equipment Showdown: Treadmills vs. Bikes vs. Ellipticals

When it comes to cardio machines, treadmills, bikes, and ellipticals are staples in any commercial gym. But which ones should you prioritize? Understanding their differences helps you make smarter equipment choices based on your members’ needs.

Treadmills: The Classic Performer

Best for: Runners, walkers, fat-burning workouts

Pros:

• High-calorie burn
• Adjustable incline and speed
• Familiar and easy to use

Cons:

• High impact on joints
• Louder and takes more maintenance
• Treadmills are a must-have for general cardio zones, especially if your members are looking for simple, effective workouts.

Exercise Bikes: Low-Impact and User-Friendly

Best for: Beginners, elderly users, injury recovery

Pros:

• Low impact on joints
• Small footprint
• Recumbent options for back support

Cons:

• Lower calorie burn than treadmills
• Some users find them less engaging
• Bikes are ideal for inclusive gym design, offering a safe option for all fitness levels.

Ellipticals: Full-Body with Less Stress

Best for: Joint-friendly cardio, full-body workouts

Pros:

• Engages upper and lower body
• Low impact
• Adjustable resistance and incline

Cons:

• May feel awkward for new users
• Slightly more expensive
• Ellipticals are great for functional, joint-friendly cardio and can be a unique selling point in your cardio lineup.

Conclusion

All three machines serve different needs. The best gyms offer a mix to accommodate different user preferences. For balance, consider a ratio of 2 treadmills, 1 elliptical, and 1 bike per every 10 cardio-focused members.