Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 9/14/2004

Question
 I do a regular exercise program 4 days a week. To add some extra cardio I would like to purchase either an exercise bike or a tread mill. Which of these would burn more calories?  Both of these will work my legs, but would either also help with my abs/oblique area? How often should I use this equipment, for how long? Thanks for the help.

Answer
***Suggestions offered here may or may not help you in your specific situation.  Please consult with your physician before starting or changing and exercise/nutrition regimen***

Hi Lynne.

Congratulations on your healthy lifestyle.  When folks ask me about what equipment is better than the other, I like to advise that you purchase equipment that you know you will use, and that's usually equipment that is practical and enjoyable for you.

To answer your questions:
***Which of these would burn more calories?
Depends on how long and how intensely you choose to workout.  Treadmill tends to be more impact on your body.  This is both good and not so good.  It's good if you like to walk/jog/run and you enjoy using a treadmill.  It's not so good if you have joint/biomechanical issues or have difficulty walking upright for a period of time.  Using an upright stationary bike is good if you like to ride a bicycle.  You can vary your pedal speed without impact to your body.  It's not so good if you don't like riding a bike for a long period of time and if you start to slump over using bad form/posture.  It bothers some people's knees.  Have you looked into elliptical motion machines?

***but would either also help with my abs/oblique area?
any cardiovascular exercise helps your body utilize stored fat, including abdominal fat.  Usually your ab/oblique muscles need specific exercises, such as crunches. see http://www.simplefitnesssolutions.com/articles/ab_muscles.htm

***how often should I use this equipment, for how long?
see these neat fitness calculators
http://www.exrx.net/Calculators.html
http://exercise.about.com/od/fitnesstoolscalculators/
http://www.active.com/calculators/
**I am not affiliated with these websites.  Use them at your own risk**

Hope this helps!!!  HANG IN THERE!!!!
Sincerely, Daphne