NordicTrack T Series vs Sole E35 – Feel Great with Best Kit
When it comes to shedding those extra pounds, choosing the right fitness equipment can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the debate of treadmill versus elliptical for fat loss, with a special focus on two popular models: the NordicTrack T Series Treadmill and the Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer.
What we cover in this article :-
Calorie Burn: The Ultimate Fat-Blasting Showdown
Treadmill Calorie Burn
Elliptical Calorie Burn
Which is Better for Calorie Burn?
Joint Impact: Protecting Your Body While Slimming Down
Treadmill Impact
Elliptical Impact
Which is Better for Joint Health?
Muscle Engagement: Full-Body Burn vs. Lower Body Focus
Treadmill Muscle Engagement
Elliptical Muscle Engagement
Which is Better for Muscle Engagement?
Workout Variety: Keeping Your Fitness Routine Fresh
Treadmill Workout Variety
Elliptical Workout Variety
Which Offers More Workout Variety?
Ease of Use: Getting Started and Staying Motivated
Treadmill Ease of Use
Elliptical Ease of Use
Which is Easier to Use?
Space and Storage: Fitting Fitness into Your Home
Treadmill Space Requirements
Elliptical Space Requirements
Which is Better for Small Spaces?
Cost and Value: Investing in Your Health
NordicTrack T Series Treadmill Cost and Value
Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer Cost and Value
Which Offers Better Value?
Weight Loss Effectiveness: The Bottom Line
Treadmill Effectiveness for Weight Loss
Elliptical Effectiveness for Weight Loss
Maximizing Weight Loss on Either Machine
Key Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s break down the key factors to consider when comparing treadmills and ellipticals for fat loss:
Calorie Burn: The Ultimate Fat-Blasting Showdown
Calorie burn is a crucial factor in fat loss. Both treadmills and ellipticals can help you torch calories, but each has its strengths.
Treadmill Calorie Burn
Treadmills are often considered the champions of calorie burning. Running on a treadmill can incinerate anywhere from 600 to 1,000 calories per hour, depending on your speed and intensity.
Even a brisk walk can help you burn 300 to 400 calories in an hour.
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill takes calorie burning to the next level with its incline training feature. With up to 10% incline, you can simulate uphill climbs, significantly increasing your calorie burn.
This feature allows you to target different muscle groups and intensify your workout without necessarily increasing your speed.
Elliptical Calorie Burn
While ellipticals might not match the raw calorie-burning potential of running, they’re no slouch in this department. You can expect to burn 500 to 800 calories per hour on an elliptical, depending on your effort level.
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer, with its 25-pound flywheel and adjustable incline, provides a smooth and challenging workout that can help you blast through calories. The adjustable resistance levels allow you to increase the intensity of your workout, potentially boosting your calorie burn.
Which is Better for Calorie Burn?
While the treadmill might have a slight edge in terms of most calorie-burning potential, the elliptical isn’t far behind. For some people, especially those with joint issues or those who prefer a lower-impact workout, the elliptical might actually be the better choice for consistent, sustainable fat loss.
The best machine for calorie burn is the one you’ll use regularly and push yourself on. Both the NordicTrack T Series Treadmill and the Sole E35 Elliptical offer features that can help you maximize your calorie burn and achieve your fat loss goals.
Joint Impact: Protecting Your Body While Slimming Down
When choosing between a treadmill and an elliptical, it’s crucial to consider the impact on your joints. You want to lose weight without wearing down your body in the process.
Treadmill Impact
Treadmills, while effective for calorie burning, can be tough on your joints, especially your knees and ankles. The repetitive impact of your feet hitting the belt can lead to strain over time.
This is particularly true if you’re running at high speeds or for long durations.
However, the NordicTrack T Series Treadmill features a cushioned deck that helps reduce some of this impact. This makes it a bit gentler on your joints compared to running on pavement.
The cushioning system absorbs some of the shock with each footfall, providing a more comfortable running experience.
Elliptical Impact
Ellipticals truly shine when it comes to joint-friendly workouts. The smooth, gliding motion of an elliptical provides a low-impact workout that’s much gentler on your joints.
Your feet never leave the pedals, eliminating the repetitive impact associated with running.
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer takes joint protection to the next level with its adjustable foot pedals and natural 20-inch stride length. These features offer a comfortable and joint-friendly workout experience, allowing you to exercise for longer periods without putting excessive stress on your joints.
Which is Better for Joint Health?
If joint health is a major concern, the elliptical is likely the better choice. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while minimizing stress on your joints.
This makes it an ideal option for people with existing joint issues, those recovering from injuries, or anyone looking to protect their joints while losing weight.
However, if you’re set on running and don’t have any pre-existing joint problems, a treadmill with good cushioning like the NordicTrack T Series can still be a viable option. The key is to listen to your body and gradually increase your workout intensity to avoid overstraining your joints.
Muscle Engagement: Full-Body Burn vs. Lower Body Focus
Both treadmills and ellipticals can give you a great workout, but they engage your muscles in different ways. Understanding these differences can help you choose the machine that aligns best with your fitness goals.
Treadmill Muscle Engagement
Treadmills primarily work your lower body, focusing on your quads, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. They’re also great for strengthening your core as you maintain balance while running or walking.
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill’s incline feature allows you to target different muscle groups by simulating uphill climbs. When you increase the incline, you engage your glutes and calves more intensely.
This adds variety to your lower body workout and helps build strength in different areas.
Running on a treadmill also engages your arms and shoulders to some extent, especially if you’re pumping your arms vigorously. However, this upper body engagement is not as significant as what you’d get from an elliptical.
Elliptical Muscle Engagement
Ellipticals offer a more full-body workout experience. In addition to working your lower body, ellipticals engage your upper body through the moving handlebars.
This means you’re also working your arms, shoulders, and back.
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer’s adjustable incline and resistance levels allow you to target different muscle groups and intensify your full-body workout. By increasing the resistance, you can challenge your muscles more, potentially leading to greater strength gains.
One unique aspect of ellipticals is the ability to pedal backward. This engages your muscles differently, particularly targeting your hamstrings and calves.
It’s a simple way to add variety to your workout and confirm you’re working all muscle groups evenly.
Which is Better for Muscle Engagement?
If you’re looking for a more balanced, full-body workout, the elliptical might be the way to go. It engages both your upper and lower body, providing a more comprehensive workout in a single session.
However, if you’re primarily focused on lower body and core strength, or if you’re training for a running event, the treadmill could be the better choice. The ability to adjust incline on the NordicTrack T Series allows you to target specific muscle groups in your legs, making it an excellent tool for runners looking to improve their performance.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific fitness goals. For overall toning and fat loss, an elliptical like the Sole E35 might be more effective.
For those focused on running performance or lower body strength, a treadmill like the NordicTrack T Series could be more useful.
Workout Variety: Keeping Your Fitness Routine Fresh
Keeping your workouts interesting is key to sticking with your fitness routine and getting your fat loss goals. Both treadmills and ellipticals offer ways to vary your workouts, but they do so in different ways.
Treadmill Workout Variety
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill shines in this department. With its 10-inch interactive touchscreen and 30-day iFit membership, you have access to a wide variety of pre-programmed workouts, virtual running routes, and even live classes.
You can simulate hill climbs with the incline feature, do interval training, or even prepare for a marathon. The ability to adjust speed and incline gives you endless possibilities to keep your workouts fresh and challenging.
Some specific workout types you can do on the NordicTrack T Series include:
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Alternate between short bursts of high-speed running and recovery periods.
- Endurance runs: Maintain a steady pace for longer durations to build stamina.
- Hill training: Use the incline feature to simulate uphill runs, great for building leg strength.
- Virtual scenic runs: Use the iFit feature to run through beautiful locations around the world.
- Speed work: Incorporate short sprints to improve your running speed.
Elliptical Workout Variety
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer, while not quite as tech-heavy as the NordicTrack, still offers plenty of variety. It comes with 10 preset programs and allows you to adjust resistance and incline levels.
You can change up your workout by pedaling backward or focusing more on your upper body. The built-in Bluetooth speakers also allow you to stream your favorite workout playlists or fitness apps for added motivation.
Some workout variations you can try on the Sole E35 include:
- Interval training: Alternate between high and low resistance levels.
- Reverse pedaling: Change direction to target different muscle groups.
- Upper body focus: Use the moving handlebars more intensely while reducing lower body effort.
- Incline variations: Adjust the incline to target different muscle groups.
- One-arm workouts: Alternate between using both arms and using a single arm to challenge your balance and core.
Which Offers More Workout Variety?
While both machines offer ways to keep your workouts interesting, the treadmill’s ability to more dramatically change speed and incline, coupled with the interactive features of the NordicTrack model, gives it a slight edge in terms of workout variety.
However, the elliptical’s full-body engagement and the ability to pedal backward provide unique variations that shouldn’t be overlooked. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and the types of workouts you enjoy most.
Ease of Use: Getting Started and Staying Motivated
When it comes to home fitness equipment, ease of use can make or break your workout routine. The easier it is to get started and use the machine, the more likely you are to stick with your fat loss plan.
Treadmill Ease of Use
Treadmills like the NordicTrack T Series have the advantage of familiarity. Walking or running is a natural movement for most people, making treadmills relatively easy to use.
The intuitive controls for speed and incline are straightforward, and the large touchscreen makes it easy to choose workouts or view your stats.
However, some people might find it takes time to get used to the moving belt, especially at higher speeds. It’s important to start slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the machine.
The NordicTrack T Series also offers:
- One-touch controls for quick speed and incline adjustments
- A large, clear display showing your workout stats
- Easy-to-use iFit integration for accessing a variety of workouts
- A safety key that stops the treadmill immediately if you fall or step off
Elliptical Ease of Use
Ellipticals like the Sole E35 have a bit of a learning curve. The elliptical motion can feel a bit unique at first, but most people find it easy to pick up after a few sessions.
Once you get the hang of it, it’s a smooth and comfortable movement.
The Sole E35’s adjustable foot pedals and natural stride length make it comfortable for users of different heights. This adaptability ensures that you can find a comfortable position regardless of your body type.
Features that make the Sole E35 user-friendly include:
- Simple console controls for adjusting resistance and incline
- Large, easy-to-read display showing your workout metrics
- Adjustable foot pedals for most comfort
- Stationary and moving handlebars to suit your preference
Which is Easier to Use?
Both machines are user-friendly once you get used to them. The choice here might come down to personal preference and what type of movement feels more natural to you.
If you’re comfortable with running or walking, you might find the treadmill easier to use right from the start. If you prefer a smoother, lower-impact motion, you might adapt more quickly to the elliptical.
The most important factor is consistency. Choose the machine that you find most enjoyable and comfortable, as this will increase the likelihood of you using it regularly.
Space and Storage: Fitting Fitness into Your Home
When choosing a piece of home fitness equipment, it’s important to consider how it will fit into your living space. Both treadmills and ellipticals can take up significant room, but they have different storage options.
Treadmill Space Requirements
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill has a significant footprint, measuring 73″ L x 35.8″ W x 67.5″ H. This means you’ll need a dedicated space of about 6 feet by 3 feet to comfortably use the treadmill.
However, one of the major advantages of the NordicTrack T Series is its foldable design. When not in use, you can fold it up to reclaim some floor space.
The folded dimensions are significantly smaller, making it a good option for people who have limited space.
The folding mechanism is usually hydraulic-assisted, making it easy to fold and unfold the treadmill. This feature is particularly useful if you need to use the space for other purposes when you’re not working out.
Elliptical Space Requirements
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer is slightly more compact, measuring 82″ L x 31″ W x 67″ H. While it’s longer than the treadmill, it’s narrower, which might make it easier to fit in certain spaces.
Unlike the treadmill, the Sole E35 doesn’t fold up. This means you’ll need a permanent space for it in your home.
However, its smaller footprint might make it easier to accommodate in some room layouts.
One advantage of the elliptical is that it doesn’t need any extra space for use. With a treadmill, you need to account for the length of your stride when running.
An elliptical’s movement is contained within its footprint.
Which is Better for Small Spaces?
If you have a dedicated workout room or a large open space, either machine could work well. However, if space is at a premium, the folding feature of the NordicTrack treadmill could be a deciding factor.
For those living in apartments or smaller homes, the ability to fold up the treadmill when not in use can be a significant advantage. It allows you to have a full-sized piece of fitness equipment without permanently sacrificing floor space.
On the other hand, if you have a spot where you can permanently place your fitness equipment, the Sole E35 Elliptical’s slightly smaller footprint might make it a better fit.
Consider measuring your available space and comparing it to the dimensions of both machines. Remember to account for enough space around the machine for safe and comfortable use.
Cost and Value: Investing in Your Health
When it comes to home fitness equipment, you often get what you pay for. Both the NordicTrack T Series Treadmill and the Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer are premium pieces of equipment with price tags to match.
Let’s break down the cost and value of each:
NordicTrack T Series Treadmill Cost and Value
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill, with its advanced features like the interactive touchscreen and iFit compatibility, tends to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. Prices can range from around $800 to $2,500 depending on the specific model and any ongoing promotions.
Key value points include:
- Interactive touchscreen for engaging workouts
- iFit compatibility for a wide variety of workouts and virtual running experiences
- Incline feature for varied workouts and increased calorie burn
- Foldable design for space-saving storage
- Cushioned deck for reduced joint impact
The variety of workouts and the motivational aspect of the interactive features could make it worth the investment for many users. The ability to simulate outdoor runs and join in live classes can help keep you engaged and consistent with your workouts.
Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer Cost and Value
The Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer, while still a significant investment, is often priced slightly lower than comparable treadmills. Prices typically range from $1,000 to $1,500.
Key value points include:
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Low-impact, full-body workout
- Adjustable incline and resistance for workout variety
- Comfortable, ergonomic design
- Comprehensive warranty
Its durable construction and comprehensive warranty make it a good value for those looking for a long-lasting piece of equipment. The lower impact nature of the elliptical might also mean fewer potential repair or replacement costs over time.
Which Offers Better Value?
When considering the cost, think about the long-term value. A high-quality machine that you’ll use regularly can be more cost-effective than a cheaper model that breaks down or that you don’t enjoy using.
The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill might offer better value if you:
- Enjoy running or walking as your primary form of exercise
- Are motivated by interactive features and virtual classes
- Have the space for a larger machine and would benefit from the folding feature
The Sole E35 Elliptical might be a better value if you:
- Prefer low-impact, full-body workouts
- Have joint issues or are concerned about the impact of running
- Don’t need interactive features and prefer a more straightforward machine
Also, consider the potential savings on gym memberships over time. Both machines can pay for themselves if they replace a gym membership and are used regularly.
The best value comes from the machine you’ll use most consistently. Choose the option that aligns with your fitness preferences and goals, as this will increase the likelihood of regular use and, so, better results.
Treadmill Effectiveness for Weight Loss
If you’re looking for most calorie burn and don’t have joint issues, a treadmill like the NordicTrack T Series might be your best bet. Its ability to provide high-intensity workouts and simulate real-world running conditions can be great for those training for events or who enjoy running.
Treadmills are particularly effective for fat loss because:
- They allow for high-intensity workouts that burn a lot of calories in a short time.
- The incline feature can increase calorie burn and target different muscle groups.
- Running is a weight-bearing exercise, which can help build bone density alongside fat loss.
- The familiar motion of walking or running can make it easier to push yourself and increase workout duration.
Elliptical Effectiveness for Weight Loss
On the other hand, if you want a low-impact, full-body workout that’s gentle on your joints, the Sole E35 Elliptical could be the perfect fit. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while also engaging your upper body, which can be useful for overall toning and fat loss.
Ellipticals can be highly effective for fat loss because:
- They provide a full-body workout, engaging both upper and lower body muscles.
- The low-impact nature allows for longer workout durations without joint strain.
- The ability to increase resistance can help build muscle, which in turn boosts metabolism.
- The smooth motion can be less intimidating for beginners, encouraging consistent use.
Maximizing Weight Loss on Either Machine
Regardless of which machine you choose, here are some tips to maximize your fat loss results:
- Incorporate interval training: Alternate between high and low intensities to boost calorie burn.
- Gradually increase duration and intensity: Push yourself to go a little longer or harder each week.
- Use the machine consistently: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Combine with strength training: Building muscle will help boost your metabolism.
- Pay attention to your diet: Weight loss is largely influenced by what you eat.
The most effective exercise machine is the one you’ll use consistently. Choose the option that you enjoy and can see yourself using regularly.
Pair your cardio workouts with a balanced diet and strength training, and you’ll be well on your way to reaching your fat loss goals.
Weight Loss Effectiveness: The Bottom Line
So, which machine is better for fat loss: the treadmill or the elliptical? Both can be highly effective tools in your fat loss journey.
The “best” choice depends on your personal preferences, fitness level, and any physical limitations you might have.
Key Takeaways:
- Both treadmills and ellipticals can be effective for fat loss, with treadmills having a slight edge in calorie burning potential.
- Ellipticals are gentler on joints, making them a better choice for people who have joint issues or injuries.
- Treadmills focus more on lower body, while ellipticals provide a full-body workout.
- The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill offers more workout variety and interactive features.
- The Sole E35 Elliptical provides a smooth, low-impact workout with adjustable settings for comfort.
- Consider factors like available space, budget, and personal preferences when making your choice.
- Consistency is key – choose the machine you’re most likely to use regularly for the best fat loss results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which burns more calories: treadmill or elliptical?
Typically, a treadmill burns more calories than an elliptical, especially when running at high speeds or inclines. However, the exact calorie burn depends on factors like intensity, duration, and individual physiology.
Is a treadmill or elliptical better for beginners?
For beginners, an elliptical might be easier to start with because of its low-impact nature and full-body workout. However, if you’re comfortable with walking or running, a treadmill could be equally suitable.
Can I lose weight using just a treadmill or elliptical?
Yes, you can lose weight using either machine as part of a consistent exercise routine. However, combining cardio with strength training and a balanced diet will yield the best results.
How long should I exercise on a treadmill or elliptical to lose weight?
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This could be 30 minutes, five days a week.
As you build endurance, you can increase duration and intensity.
Are NordicTrack treadmills good for fat loss?
NordicTrack treadmills, including the T Series, are excellent tools for fat loss. They offer features like incline training and interactive workouts that can help maximize calorie burn.
Is the Sole E35 Elliptical suitable for high-intensity workouts?
Yes, the Sole E35 Elliptical is suitable for high-intensity workouts. Its adjustable resistance and incline allow you to increase the intensity of your workouts as your fitness improves.
Can treadmills or ellipticals help with belly fat?
While you can’t spot-reduce fat, regular cardio exercise on either machine, combined with a healthy diet, can help reduce overall body fat, including belly fat.
How often should I use a treadmill or elliptical for fat loss?
For fat loss, aim to use your machine 4-5 times per week for at least 30 minutes per session. Remember to start gradually and increase intensity and duration over time.
Is it better to use a treadmill or elliptical on an empty stomach?
There’s no significant difference in fat burning whether you exercise on an empty stomach or not. Choose the timing that feels most comfortable and sustainable for you.
Can I use a treadmill or elliptical if I have knee problems?
If you have knee problems, an elliptical is generally a safer choice because of its low-impact nature. However, always talk to a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine!
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