Treadmill or Elliptical?

[Disneefun]

My old faithful TM has finally bitten the dust and will cost more to repair than to buy something new. Initially I thought I'd just get a new TM, but then I started thinking maybe an elliptical? (I only have space and money for one, so I have to choose.)

I live in an area where I can get outside most months of the year, so I don't need a TM for hard core indoor training. We don't have tons of snow or bitter cold or anything. I'm also getting older and am forced to acknowledge that the impact of running, even if on a TM, may not be the best thing for my knees. So I'm thinking maybe the elliptical might be the better choice, as it would give my knees a break, while still allowing me to get in my cardio. I can still go out to run, but on those days when I just can't or don't want to, the elliptical would give me an in house option.

For those that have/use an elliptical, do you find that it helps or hurts your running? Other pros and cons I should consider? Thanks for any input.

 

[SkinsFan76]

My friend using an elliptical all week for his conditioning and then does one long run on the weekend. He isn't training for PR's anymore, just to complete 10-15 marathons a year. I know he has gained about 20 minutes in his marathon, but enjoys the elliptical in his apartment.

 

[MJonesMBA2001]

My friend using an elliptical all week for his conditioning and then does one long run on the weekend. He isn't training for PR's anymore, just to complete 10-15 marathons a year. I know he has gained about 20 minutes in his marathon, but enjoys the elliptical in his apartment.

just to complete 10-15 marathon a year? WOW!!