Nowadays, elliptical trainers are all the rage. Still, the old school treadmill continues to be very popular with people of all shapes and sizes. If you're thinking about getting an exercise machine to use in your home, you may be wondering which is best for you.

Treadmills and elliptical trainers are both great exercise tools that you can use in the privacy of your own home. Both are full of benefits for your body. But, in some cases one or the other might be better for you.

Let's look at which machines best benefit which kinds of exercisers.

If You Want More Variety To Spice Up Your Routine...

...go with an elliptical. This is one of the major reasons why ellipticals have been gaining in popularity over the last few years.

Treadmills now have heart rate monitors, incline control, and programming options as standard features. But, even with all the increasing features that treadmills offer, elliptical machines offer you much more.

Even the simples, lowest grade elliptical trainers have more features than most high end treadmills. If you are serious about designing your own workout, an elliptical is for you.

If You Want To Lose That Extra Weight Quickly...

...you might prefer a treadmill. Treadmills have generally been shown to burn off calories quickly and more efficiently than elliptical trainers.

Lately, new research has challenged this. New studies have been saying that ellipticals can burn off just as many calories as treadmills with much less effort. But, the jury is still out on that.

If You Are Elderly And Looking For A Way To Keep In Shape...

...an elliptical is much better for you. Ellipticals offer a smoother and less stressful workout. People say it's like walking in air. Treadmills cause undo stress to your bones, which can be especially hard on the elderly. Go with an elliptical.

If You Are A Serious Runner...

...get a treadmill. An elliptical won't help you train for a big run. Serious joggers and runners always prefer treadmills because they perfectly simulate the experience of running. Ellipticals offer a different kind of workout.

If You Are An Athlete Looking To Supplement Your Training Program...

...an elliptical would be a good choice. Ellipticals offer more of a full body workout. You might just need a little cardio to round out your workout routine. In this case, an elliptical trainer would be ideal.

Treadmills only work out certain parts of your body, like your legs and lower abdomen. Ellipticals give your whole body a workout.

If You Just Want To Burn Some Calories And Get Your Heart Pumping...

...either one would suit you. For most people, a treadmill or an elliptical would work. Both machines are good at burning off fat and getting your blood pumping. They both offer a great cardio-vascular workout that you can do easily in your own home. And, they both have features that you can use to get the workout you want.