Exercise machines

I'm pre-op and in the market to purchase my first exercise machine. I'm debating between an Elliptical or a Treadmill. Which one is better? Which one do you have? Pros/Cons? Thank you

(daughter wants the elliptical ..lol)

It is very personal - but if you decide on the eliptical - get one that you can work forward and backwards - trains different muscle group.

i prefer the elliptical over the treadmill and a bike over both. on the bike i feel more stable and can read, on the elliptical i'm less bored i guess with the arms moving and stuff, but the treadmill is like hell to me. 

I prefer the treadmill because I am very uncoordinated. I feel really unstable on an elliptical. I guess whatever you like best would be your best bet because unless it is something you will use it is pointless. I have lost almost 100 pounds in 6 months by walking an hour a day and doing 30 minutes of strength training every other day so I guess it works!

I understand!   I tried my friends elliptical  about five years ago and said I couldn't do, to hard to coordinate arms and legs!   I asked a lady I met at the club, she said just start slow.    I guess because I was getting conditioned to the treadmill I was able to do 20 min first time.  I do not know why, but it all clicked when I got on, and I'm almost 60.   

I used a treadmill for years (my husband and I both had our own Precors).   I started on a treadmill at my clubhouse after surgery and worked up to 2 miles.  I then switched to the elliptical which I like so much better.  I get a better workout, burn more calories in almost half the time and it is easier on my knees, hips and back.

Thank you all so much for your input. I didn't think about my back and knee pain, so yea, perhaps something low impact is best for me. I like the fact that I can burn more calories in less time on an Elliptical. My daughter will be very happy! Thanks again!

It would be to your advantage to try them out before buying.  I notice several people using the elliptical exclusively and others go for a long time on the treadmill.  I split it up with the bike and treadmill with the weight machines and can't handle the elliptical for more than a few minutes.  Everyone has individual preferences. 

Yes, it would help if you could try them out, but not trying for a period of time might not give you the right answer.   I see people at the club using the treadmill or elliptical exclusively.....because it is a matter of preference.  I always hated riding the bike.

any one bought a elliptical at walmart they have a cheap one wondered if anyone has tryed it