Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our Thats Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Fitz. My husband and I are ready to purchase a cardio machine for our home, but can't decide which to buy. He wants to get an elliptical machine, but I want a stepper so I can burn more calories. Which machine should we get to help us lose weight the fastest? Angie

A. Hello, Miss Angie. What an exciting purchase to make! I'm thrilled that you two are investing in your health, which is vital for ensuring a long and happy life together. Cardiovascular training is beneficial for your heart, lungs and weight-loss efforts. I'm happy to help you choose the machine that is right for you.

As far as the ability to burn calories, they all offer about the same potential. Forget what those little digital displays on the equipment at your gym tell you. They're nothing more than estimates, and sometimes those estimates are ridiculously inaccurate. What matters most on each machine is the level at which you decide to work. Running at a steep incline on a treadmill is equivalent to climbing quickly at the highest level resistance on the stepper. Both will have you huffing, puffing, sweating and struggling. Same goes for the stationary bike and elliptical trainer; crank up the resistance, strive for speed and you'll burn an enormous amount of calories.

Calories will burn based on your pace and resistance level, so don't choose your machine thinking one will do more than the other in that regard. Let's look at some factors that might help you make your decision.

Treadmill: Great for anyone who knows how to, at minimum, walk. Walk, run, sprint or climb at a variety of speeds to vary your training. Unlike other cardio machines, you'll reap the bone building benefits of a moderate to high-impact workout. Treadmills are awesome for runners who need to train indoors due to the weather or family issues.

Stepper and Elliptical Trainer: Both offer an impact-free workout which is ideal for those with joint paint. While the stepper offers a limited range of motion (up, down, up, down), the elliptical rider allows the user to vary the incline of the pedals, changing which lower body muscles are challenged.

Stationary Bike: Another impact-free training device, which can be used by virtually everyone. Bikes are really popular for rehabbing a variety of injuries, but don't poo-poo the potential for an elite training experience. You just have to look at Lance Armstrong to know what type of effect a bike can have!

Rowing or Kayaking Machine: These cardiovascular training devices also offer a big caloric burn but require and create more upper body strength and endurance. If you are looking to develop your back and arms, these two machines are great choices.

Angie, at the end of the day, you're going to have to choose which half of your body you'd rather train (upper or lower) and which machine you'd simply prefer. If you're using a machine for weight loss, use it often and work hard while you're on it. If you can chit-chat on the phone while exercising, you're not working hard enough. My other recommendation is to get a good machine. Make sure the machine does not rattle, shake or make loud noises when you or your husband are on it. Cheap machines become annoying to use and end up as coat racks. Invest a little more and you'll be more likely to use it for a long time. Now get to work!

Punches & Kicks,

Fitz

Fitzness.com

Note: The content presented in this Q. & A section is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as medical advice or substitute for professional medical care.