Trying to decide between the Bowflex Max Trainer vs. a treadmill? The Bowflex Max is a new type of elliptical-stair stepper that is extremely popular right now.

However, the treadmill is still the most popular type of gym overall - and also gives you some definite benefits.

So which is best for you? Here's a listing of 5 Important differences between the Bowflex Max Trainer and a treadmill to Assist You decide:

The Bowflex Max has the advantage here. In studies done from the Bowflex laboratory, the Max coach burnt around 2.5 times more calories compared to a treadmill (or routine elliptical or stair stepper).

Compare that to approximately 100 - 200 calories in 30 minutes which you burn onto a treadmill (depending on incline, speed, etc.), and it's a significant difference.

Again, the Max coach wins here are nicely. Treadmills (especially when used for conducting) are extremely significant effects. The force of your joints coming back on the belt can breed your buttocks, knees, back and ankles.

The Max trainer however has almost no impact as your feet don't leave the transferring pedals. Actually, as stated by the maker, running on a treadmill generates around 200 percent more impact than workout out around the Max.

So if you are more vulnerable to injury or shin splints the Max is a great alternative.

#3 Entertainment/Tracking Options

This is a tie - perhaps with a treadmill (based on the version) having the slight edge.

While the Bowflex Max trainer does come with several built-in workouts (including the main 14 minute high intensity training interval), a treadmill in general tends to provide you longer workouts and entertainment options.

For instance, you can find treadmills with built-in iPod docks, TVs as well as web browser at the console.

However, on the other side, the Max Trainer M5 version does come with Bluetooth and you can sync and track your results along with their program to determine just how far you've come. So there is some good tracking capability using the M5.

#4 Ease of Use

The treadmill has the slight advantage here. Walking on a treadmill is so simple that almost anyone can do it, irrespective of age, weight or coordination degree.

Even in the event that you've never exercised before and you're just beginning, you can use a treadmill. Start slow and move up gradually as you fitness level increases.

The Max trainer may be used gradually as well - however it's a little more extreme than a simple walking exercise. Plus, the movement may take a bit of getting used to for novices.

Number5 Upper Body

The Max coach wins here - hands down. Having a treadmill, there is in factn't a means to work your upper body - unless you buy handweights and use these while you walk.

The Max trainer has moving arm bars (like elliptical arm bars) what help you work you arms. Testing in the Bowflex laboratory showed that the Max arms engaged up to 80 percent more upper body muscles compared to even a classic elliptical.

So what's the bottom line about the Bowflex Max Trainer vs a Treadmill?

Well, it basically comes down to you and what you're looking for. A treadmill can offer you a simple workout with a great deal of fun amusement and monitoring options. It is a wonderful choice for folks that have never exercised before who are just getting started.

However, the Max coach is much lower impact than a treadmill and may burn a whole lot more calories in less time. So you are going to notice weight loss results quicker on the Max than on a treadmill.

Thus again, it depends upon your targets and preferences. Whatever you opt to do, please make certain that you take your time, proceed at your own pace and seek advice from your health care provider prior to beginning any exercise plan. Fantastic luck!