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Cycling Vs. Treadmill: Which Is Better for Your Workout?

Written By: William Rivers
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: March 9, 2023
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If you're trying to decide between investing in a treadmill or an exercise bike, you might be wondering which one is the better option for your workout routine. Both machines offer unique benefits and drawbacks, and your choice will depend on your specific fitness goals and preferences.

In this article, we'll examine the differences between treadmills and exercise bikes, including which option is better for cardio and which machine is right for you.

Which Is Better: Cycling vs. Treadmill?

Before diving into each machine's specific benefits and drawbacks, it's worth noting that the choice between a treadmill and an exercise bike often comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the feeling of running or walking on a treadmill, while others enjoy the low-impact nature of cycling on an exercise bike.

Both machines are effective at providing a cardiovascular workout, but the specific benefits will vary depending on which one you choose. Below, we'll explore the differences in more detail.

Which One Is Best For Cardio?

Both treadmills and exercise bikes are great options for improving your cardiovascular health. Running or walking on a treadmill can get your heart rate up and help improve your endurance while cycling on an exercise bike can provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout.

In general, treadmills are better for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts and can help you burn more calories in a shorter time. However, exercise bikes are great for longer, steady-state cardio workouts that can help improve your endurance over time.

Workout Difficulty

Regarding workout difficulty, both treadmills and exercise bikes can be adjusted to provide a challenging workout. With a treadmill, you can increase the speed or incline to increase the intensity of your workout. With an exercise bike, you can adjust the resistance to simulate hills or increase the difficulty of your ride.

That being said, treadmills tend to be more challenging overall, especially if running at high speed or incline. However, exercise bikes can also be challenging if you increase the resistance enough.

Muscle Worked

Running or walking on a treadmill primarily works your lower body, including your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. However, it can also somewhat engage your core and upper body. On the other hand, cycling on an exercise bike primarily works your lower body, including your quads, hamstrings, and glutes. It can also engage your core and upper body to some extent, depending on the type of bike you're using and how you position your hands. 

Overall, an exercise bike may be the better option if you're looking to work your lower body more intensely. However, a treadmill may be a better choice if you want to engage your upper body more.

Versatility

When it comes to versatility, treadmills tend to offer more options. You can use a treadmill for running, walking, or even incline walking to provide a challenging lower-body workout. You can also use the handrails to engage your upper body more if you'd like.

Exercise bikes, on the other hand, are primarily designed for cycling. While some bikes may offer different riding positions or handlebar options, they're still limited to cycling movements.

That being said, some exercise bikes do offer more versatility than others. For example, a recumbent bike may be more comfortable for people with lower back pain, while an upright bike may be better for those seeking a more intense workout.

Weight Loss

Both treadmills and exercise bikes can be effective for weight loss, but the specific benefits will depend on how you use the machine. Running or walking on a treadmill can burn more calories than cycling on an exercise bike, especially if you use a higher incline or run faster.

However, exercise bikes can still be effective for weight loss if you use them for longer, steady-state cardio workouts. Plus, since they're low-impact, they can be a good option for people with joint pain or other injuries that make running or walking difficult.

Injury Risk

Speaking of injuries, it's worth considering the injury risk associated with each machine before making a decision. Running or walking on a treadmill can be high-impact, increasing the risk of injuries like shin splints, stress fractures, or knee pain.

Cycling on an exercise bike, on the other hand, is low-impact and can be a good option for people with joint pain or other injuries. However, injuring yourself on an exercise bike is still possible if you use the improper form or overuse the machine.

Versatility

As mentioned earlier, treadmills offer more versatility than exercise bikes. However, it's worth considering the versatility of your specific needs and goals. If you're looking for a machine that can provide a variety of workouts and movements, a treadmill may be the better choice.

But if you're primarily looking for a cardiovascular workout or a low-impact option for joint pain, an exercise bike may be more versatile.

Cost And Space

Finally, it's worth considering each machine's cost and space requirements. Treadmills are more expensive than exercise bikes, especially if you're looking for a high-end model with all the bells and whistles. Plus, they tend to take up more space, which can be considered if you work out in a smaller area.

Exercise bikes, on the other hand, tend to be more affordable and take up less space. However, the price can still add up if you're looking for a high-end model with many features.

The Verdict: Cycling vs. Treadmill

So, which machine is better for your workout? Ultimately, the answer will depend on your specific needs and goals. A treadmill may be the better option if you're looking for a high-intensity workout that engages your entire body. But an exercise bike may be the better choice if you're looking for a low-impact cardiovascular workout or a machine that takes up less space. Either way, both machines can be effective for improving your cardiovascular health, burning calories, and getting in shape. 

Getting the right gear and equipment can set you on the right path for working out effectively. Learn more about the best fitness trackers for seniors in our Senior Strong guide.

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William Rivers
William Rivers is an editor with a master’s degree in Human Services Counseling at Maine State University. He has more than 20 years of experience working in the senior healthcare industry.
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