Electronic Calorie Counters on Cardio Machines
Do you believe an electronic calorie counter on cardio machines?
You may want to think twice before diving into a big pasta dinner just because the electronic calorie counter on your treadmill said you burned 600 calories. That number may be inflated, sometimes significantly.
“Some cardio machines overestimate the calorie burn by as much as 25 percent,” says Cedric Bryant, Ph.D., chief exercise physiologist for the American Council on Exercise.
Why would an electronic calories counter be inaccurate? There are a number of reasons, but mainly because the machines are based on standard formulas that don’t take into account variables like height and lean muscle mass. They can be especially unreliable if you use the quick-start option, which fails to factor in body weight.
The solution? You can still use the electronic calorie counter on your treadmill, but keep in mind that it is only an estimate, do not fixate on the number it gives you. It is much more productive to focus on your exercise intensity and the length of your workout. [source: Fitness]
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