Stationary Bike vs Treadmill: Which Better Fits Your Goals?

When it comes to home workouts, the stationary bike and treadmill are two of the most popular options. Both are great for cardiovascular health, weight loss, and overall fitness. Each has its distinct advantages and it is often difficult to choose between the two. But if you can only purchase one of them, the stationary bike vs treadmill, which would you choose? Let's take a closer look at their differences first. 

Weight Loss: Which Burns More Calories?

If your primary goal is weight loss, the treadmill is likely your best bet for faster results. Running on a treadmill can burn more calories in a shorter period of time compared to a stationary bike. According to Harvard Health, a 155-pound person running at the speed of 5 mph (12 min/mile) for 30 minutes can burn 288 calories, compared with 252 calories when cycling moderately. Moreover, the treadmill is often equipped with auto-incline features, allowing users to add the intensity to challenge themselves. 

The stationary bike can’t provide so much calorie burn though, it offers a low-impact exercise that is friendly to your joints. To increase calorie burn, increase the resistance levels gradually as your body adapts. 

In short, if you want quick results, the treadmill might be more efficient, but if you prefer a low-impact approach to weight loss, the stationary bike will be a great option. 

Low-Impact Exercise: Which Is Easier on Your Joints?

For individuals with joint issues, arthritis, or those recovering from injury, the impact on the joints is a major consideration when choosing the right home fitness equipment. In this regard, the stationary bike stands out as an excellent choice. Similar to the elliptical machine, cycling keeps your feet on the pedals throughout the entire workout. Unlike running on a treadmill, where your body absorbs the shock from the ground, cycling is much gentler on the knees.

On the other hand, the treadmill can be harder on your joints, especially if you’re running fast. But some treadmills are crafted with shock-absorbing surfaces, helping to reduce the impact on our joints. 

In a word, for those specifically concerned with joint health, the stationary bike can be a trusted fitness companion compared with stationary bikes.

Heart Rate Boost: Which Increases Heart Rate 

Both machines are beneficial for improving cardiovascular health. But when it comes to increasing your heart rate, the treadmill is generally more effective. Running on a treadmill, especially with an incline, can get your heart pumping quickly. The stationary bike typically doesn’t elevate your heart rate as quickly as a treadmill. If you want to increase your heart rate, you'd better increase resistance levels, try high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or incorporate other exercises. 

Space and Storage: Which Is More Compact?

When it comes to space requirements, both machines are right for you as long as you get the right mode. Just choose those compact modes, such as a foldable stationary bike or a foldable treadmill. Some foldable exercise bikes, such as Tousains foldable exercise bikes, are equipped with wheels on the bottom, allowing you to move them from one room to another with ease. The collapsible treadmill, on the other hand, can easily fit under your desk or sofa, enabling you to work out anywhere you want and store it conveniently.

Beginner-Friendly: Which Is Easier to Use?

For beginners, the stationary bike is often easier to get started. Cycling is a low-impact activity and doesn’t require you to learn many skills. Just adjust the seat height, sit on this machine, adjust the resistance levels, and start pedaling. 

The treadmill, however, requires users to take some time to learn how to use it as it is different from walking or running on the ground. Start with a short session at low speed first, and then gradually add the intensity as you build endurance and get familiar with running on the treadmill. Otherwise, it could lead to injuries. 

Muscle Building: Which Builds More Strength?

While both machines are great for cardiovascular health, the treadmill has an edge when it comes to overall muscle engagement. Running on a treadmill works not only your upper body but also engages your glutes, calves, and even your core. To enhance muscle development, add some weights or increase inclines.

The stationary bike primarily targets the lower body, particularly the quads, hamstrings, and glutes. You can increase resistance to build strength in these muscles, but it’s less of a full-body workout compared to the treadmill. 

Cost: Which Is More Affordable?

If you have a limited budget, stationary bike vs treadmill, which should you choose then? Generally speaking, stationary bikes tend to be more affordable. Treadmills, on the other hand, are often pricier, especially for high-quality models with motorized functions and advanced features. For a cost-effective option, the stationary bike will be a better option. 

Noise Levels: Which Operates Quieter?

For those living in a shared space or in environments where sound can easily travel through walls, noise levels should be a major factor to be considered. The stationary bike vs treadmill, which is noisier? In general, the sound of some treadmills' motors can be particularly disruptive, especially when running at high speeds or during intense workouts. But stationary bikes are generally much quieter, particularly for those with magnetic resistance, which operate almost silently. 

Conclusion: Stationary Bike vs Treadmill Which Should You Choose?

In the end, the choice between a stationary bike and a treadmill comes down to your personal fitness goals and preferences. If you want quick calorie burn and higher-intensity workouts, the treadmill will be better for you. On the other hand, if joint concerns or low-impact exercise is your priority, the stationary bike will be a more reliable fitness companion.

If you want to buy compact ones, Tousains is worth consideration. Tousains foldable exercise bike is equipped with 8 magnetic resistance levels and 6 seat height levels, allowing you to customize workouts to your needs. Tousains 2 in 1 incline treadmill, on the other hand, is crafted with 3 auto incline levels and a remote control, providing an effective and convenient workout at home. View our Tousains website and decide whether it is the best pick for you!