If you’re trying to lose weight, upping your cardio game is a great place to start. However, the type of machine you choose can make or break your workout routine. Finding a machine that you enjoy is key, as it’ll make it much easier to stick with your workouts—and achieve your goals!
There are plenty of machines to choose from, but which one is right for you? This depends on your fitness goals, and any health issues or injuries you may have. If you have any concerns, we suggest speaking to a doctor or healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program. Having the right equipment can also make your workouts more efficient, as it will allow you to burn more calories in the same amount of time.
The Top 3 Cardio Machines That Are Good For Weight Loss
While you can find a treadmill on almost every list of the best cardio machines for weight loss, it usually ranks lower than other options. It’s because most people use it for low-intensity walking or jogging (which is low-fat/low-calorie). But if you crank up the speed and incline, you can get an excellent high-intensity cardio workout that’ll help you torch some serious calories.
A runner-style machine with an endless moving belt, the treadmill is the OG of cardio machines. It’s easy to use, and you can customize your workout by changing the speed and grade. Plus, the treadmill can target different muscles, depending on your incline setting. For example, running on an incline targets the quads, glutes, and hamstrings, while walking on a flat surface works the legs and calves.
You can also use the treadmill to do HIIT training, which will boost your metabolism and help you burn even more calories. Plus, you can find a variety of workout apps for the treadmill, which is an added bonus if you like to track and monitor your progress.
In addition to the calorie-burning benefits of using the treadmill, it’s also one of the most effective machines for burning belly fat. That’s because the abdominal muscles are constantly contracting on this type of machine.
As a result, your body has to burn through stored glycogen and lipids—or fat cells—to keep up with the energy you’re burning. This helps to sculpt your stomach, but if you’re able to incorporate it into a comprehensive workout routine that also includes strength training, it can be especially effective.
While any cardio machine can provide a solid, weight-loss-friendly workout, you’ll want to choose the one that will fit your fitness needs and personal preferences. If you’re a beginner, we suggest choosing an elliptical or rowing machine so you can learn the basics before moving on to more advanced machines. And if you have any health or injury issues, we recommend opting for a machine that’s low-impact. This will minimize stress on your joints and reduce the risk of injury.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
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