Elliptical Machine vs. Walking: Which Is Better for Seniors?

As seniors prioritize maintaining mobility and cardiovascular health, the debate between using an elliptical machine vs walking for exercise becomes increasingly relevant. Both activities are low-impact and accessible. Which should you choose? Is elliptical better than walking?  

In this article, we’ll compare the benefits and drawbacks of both walking and elliptical machines, explore key fitness considerations for seniors, and introduce the best under desk elliptical for elderly: Tousains Mini Elliptical Machine. Let’s dive in!

Key Considerations for Senior Fitness

When choosing the right type of exercise for seniors, there are many factors to consider that affect the health and safety of the elderly:

Joint Health

Joint health is especially crucial for seniors. The World Health Organization reports that about 528 million people worldwide were living with osteoarthritis in 2019 and about 73% of people living with osteoarthritis are older than 55 years. Exercises that place too much stress on the joints can worsen the health condition of the elderly. Low-impact exercises are generally recommended because they reduce joint stress while still improving strength and mobility.

Balance and Fall Risk

A study shows that older patients may be subject to most of the common balance disorders of younger patients. This is where daily physical exercise comes in. It helps improve core strength and balance, lowering the risk of falls. Seniors with balance issues should prioritize exercises that provide stability and support.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Heart health is a key focus for senior fitness. Regular aerobic exercise helps improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and build endurance. For seniors who want to enhance their cardiovascular health, they should choose exercise that elevates the heart rate without overexertion.

Ease of Use

Simplicity and convenience are important factors in senior exercise routines. Complicated workout machines make it challenging to get started, not to mention staying consistent. A suitable senior exercise equipment should be easy to perform and allow for gradual progression.

Elliptical Machine: Pros and Cons for Seniors

Pros:

Low-Impact on Joints

While using ellipticals, the feet of the elderly won’t leave the pedals, which places minimal impact on the joints. Furthermore, people with knee and hip arthritis can benefit from this low-impact fitness equipment, according to the Arthritis Foundation. 

Full-Body Workout

Unlike walking, an elliptical engages the upper and lower body, especially for those with moving handlebars. Regular use of this low-impact fitness equipment helps improve coordination and strengthen multiple muscle groups.

Adjustable Intensity

Many models are equipped with adjustable resistance. Older adults can start with low resistance and gradually increase it as endurance and strength build. 

Convenient for Home Fitness

Whether it is raining or snowing outside, the elderly can use this exercise equipment anytime they want. 

Cons:

Requires Equipment & Space

Unlike walking, an elliptical machine requires significant space and enough budget for investment. Tousains Mini Elliptical Machine for seniors, however, is portable and compact enough for home workouts. 

Learning Curve

Some seniors may find it difficult to get used to the motion and coordination required while using the ellipticals. It is essential to get started with a low resistance level. 

Less Weight-Bearing Benefit

While it strengthens muscles, an elliptical does not provide the same bone-strengthening benefits as walking.

Walking: Pros and Cons for Seniors

Pros:

Accessible & Free

As long as the weather is good, seniors can walk anytime and anywhere they want, whether it is indoors or outdoors. It requires no equipment.

Improves Bone Density

A study shows that healthy postmenopausal women who walk approximately 1 mile each day have higher whole-body bone density than women who walk shorter distances.

Boosts Mental Health

Going out for a walk can help seniors calm down, enjoy the moment, have peace of mind, and reduce stress. 

Encourages Socialization

Seniors can feel lonely when their loved ones are not around. Outdoor walks encourage them to socialize with others.

Cons:

Hard on Joints

Walking on hard surfaces can put a strain on the knees, ankles, and hips, worsening arthritis symptoms.

Weather Dependent

Rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can limit walking opportunities.

Higher Fall Risk

Uneven terrain, obstacles, and poor balance can increase the chance of falling.

Recommendations Based on Health Conditions

Choosing between an elliptical machine and walking depends on a senior’s specific health conditions. Here are some recommendations:

For Seniors with Arthritis or Joint Pain: Elliptical Machine

Using this piece of senior exercise equipment reduces stress on the joints while engaging full-body muscles. It avoids the impact of walking on hard surfaces. Tousains Mini Elliptical Machine, which is equipped with seven resistance levels, is tailored for seniors with joint pain.

For Seniors Concerned About Bone Health (Osteoporosis): Walking

According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, walking is effective in slowing the rate of bone loss from the legs. If possible, adding some light resistance exercises can further improve bone strength.

For Seniors with Balance Issues or Fall Risk: Elliptical Machine

Many elliptical machines are equipped with stable handrails and moving handlebars. Seniors can simply hold the stable handrails and start pedaling. Tousains Mini Elliptical Machine can be used while sitting and is perfect for seniors who worry about falling off a workout machine.

For Seniors with Cardiovascular Concerns: Elliptical Machine

Equipped with adjustable resistance levels, this equipment allows users to start from low resistance and gradually increase the resistance as they build endurance. 

Conclusion: Elliptical Machine vs Walking

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing between an elliptical machine and walking for seniors. Both have unique advantages:

• If joint health and fall prevention are priorities, the elliptical machine is a better option.
• If bone strength and outdoor activity are more important, walking is the superior choice.
• A combination of both can offer the best of both worlds—low-impact cardio with the elliptical and bone-strengthening benefits from walking.

Ultimately, the best exercise is the one that fits the health condition, mobility level, and personal preference of the elderly. Consistency is the key to seeing the health benefits of physical exercise. If you decide to invest in an elliptical machine, Tousains provides the best under desk elliptical for elderly. With the 2-year warranty and 30-day return policy, seniors can purchase with confidence.

No matter which one you choose, stay consistent, start small and you will make it!