Ellipticals are a great way to get a full-body workout in a fitness studio or at home.
That’s right — you can now achieve your physical fitness goals with a low-impact workout in your own home!
An elliptical machine is one such piece of fitness equipment for your home gym for a more relaxed cardio workout.
Now, you might be wondering where you can start with ellipticals.
Well, I’ve gathered the best elliptical machines in the market to help you look for the one that will fit your goals and lifestyle.
The 9 Best Elliptical Machines
With the rising popularity of ellipticals, you’ll find many amazing brands with various features in the market.
I’ve listed the best ellipticals available and their features, especially those that stand out the most. Hopefully, this can help you find the best elliptical for your home gym.
1: NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical – Overall Best Elliptical Machine
Main Features
- Dimensions: 67 L x 29 W x 69 H inches
- Item weight: 210 lbs
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Stride length: 19 inches
- Price: $1,499
Pros
- Wide incline range
- Heavy flywheel
- Wide range of resistance
Cons
- Expensive
- No storage options
This elliptical is one of NordicTrack’s most well-rounded machines so far. This is thanks to the numerous features that make it the top pick for ellipticals.
It has a 32-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel with silent magnetic resistance — which is one of the heaviest on the market. It ensures you’ll get a smooth and bump-free ride whenever you work out on this elliptical.
It also features a power incline from 0% to 20%. You can easily customize this along with the 26 digital resistance levels it has to offer.
Thanks to its adjustable stride length and oversized pedals, anyone can use this elliptical. It’s great for multi-user households because you can customize it according to the user’s height.
It also has an iFit subscription trial to help you get those on-demand workouts. It can cater to any level of fitness and provide great workout classes for anyone.
This elliptical is your best pick if you’re looking for the best elliptical machine to cater to everyone. I guarantee that you’ll get a great workout with this exercise machine.
2: Bowflex Max Trainer M9 – Best Full-Body Workout
Main Features
- Dimensions: 49.2 L x 30.5 W x 65.1 H inches
- Item weight: 148.8 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Stride length: N/A
- Price: $1,999
Pros
- Free workout mat
- Smaller footprint
- Many resistance levels
Cons
- Can be loud
This elliptical is well-known for combining the feel of an elliptical and a stair stepper, making it possible to create a more intense workout program for you to work with.
It also has 20 levels of resistance to give variation to your routine. Enjoy a nice low-impact exercise or an intense workout to burn calories, all with the push of a button.
This elliptical also features a 10-inch colored HD touchscreen, which shows your progress and vitals. You can stay updated with your progress and get personalized exercises too!
Bowflex ellipticals come with a 2-month trial subscription for the JRNY mobile app. You can share this subscription with up to three people and individually track your progress and classes.
I promise you’ll get a full-body workout with all these features, exercising even the muscles in your upper body.
The elliptical also comes with a workout mat that helps protect your floors when working out. I also noticed how it adds stability to routines.
3: NordicTrack FS10i – Most Compact Elliptical
Main Features
- Dimensions: 58.5 L x 29.5 W x 74 H inches
- Item weight: 284 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs.
- Stride length: 32 in
- Price: $1,999
Pros
- Folds up easily
- Good ergonomics
- Resistance variations
- Stable machine with no shaking
Cons
- Expensive
You don’t have to sacrifice your fitness goals if you’re living in a small space! This elliptical is one of the more compact options from NordicTrack.
It has over 24 resistance levels and a 10-degree adjustable incline which can add challenge to your workout.
I love how you can also comfortably work out thanks to its padded foot pedals. It adds to the low-impact workout experience without sacrificing the structure of your elliptical.
It features a 10-inch HD touchscreen where you can view your workout programs and other forms of entertainment.
You can also connect your iFit to it to access elite personal trainers and real-world locations. Doing so means your incline and resistance levels are automatically based on your route and routine.
Small spaces are not a fitness problem if you can feel like you’re working out around the world with this compact elliptical!
4: Bowflex Max Trainer M6 – Most Beginner-Friendly
Main Features
- Dimensions: 46 L x 26 W x 64.2 H inches
- Item weight: 148 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride length: 16 inches
- Price: $1,399
Pros
- Compact
- In-home assembly (with additional fee)
- Full-body cardio workouts
- Designed for comfort
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- No speakers
- Difficult assembly
- Shorter warranty
What makes an elliptical intimidating may be its unusual structure. After all, it can put you in a bit of an awkward situation, especially if you’re a beginner.
However, I assure you that this is one of the Bowflex Max Trainer ellipticals that provide elite comfort during workouts. It helps you learn how to use the elliptical with ease.
Enjoy its large cushioned foot pedals and padded grips to help keep you stable during your workouts. It also helps keep your grip and footing comfortable while you adjust.
It also includes a water bottle holder, an adjustable media rack, and a USB charging port to add comfort while working out.
Besides the comfort it provides, its programs are also great for beginners.
It includes five programs built into the system and infinite workout programs from the JRNY app. However, you would need a subscription to access the other workout modes.
The machine has 16 resistance levels, which is more than your basic elliptical, allowing you to have room for growth.
5: Proform Carbon EL – The Most Budget-Friendly
Main Features
- Dimensions: 25 W x 68.5 D x 67.75 H inches
- Item weight: 200 lbs
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs
- Stride length: 19 in
- Price: $799
Pros
- Affordable
- Quiet performance
- iFit trial
Cons
- Low weight capacity
- Need iFit for workout programs
- Doesn’t measure heart rate
This Proform elliptical trainer is one of the more affordable choices on this list. Despite that, I assure you that it shares almost all of the great features of more expensive Proform ellipticals.
It includes 18 resistance levels which you can customize according to the desired intensity of your workout.
Thanks to its inertia-enhanced flywheel, you’re guaranteed a quiet and smooth ride. It comes with silent magnetic resistance to improve the overall performance of your machine.
It also includes the luxurious features of expensive Proform ellipticals. That means you can expect large foot pedals, a tablet computer and water bottle holder, dual 2-inch speakers, and more!It even has wheels to help you roll it off to storage when not in use. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also compact, making it great for small spaces.
6: Proform Pro HIIT H14 – Best Elliptical for HIIT Workouts
Main Features
- Dimensions: 29 W x 52 D x 66 H inches
- Item weight: 224 lbs
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs
- Stride length: 5 inches horizontally and 10 inches vertically
- Price: $1,799
Pros
- Designed for high-intensity workouts
- Cushioned pedals and dual Bluetooth speakers
- Many pre-set workout programs
- Compact
Cons
- Expensive
- Difficult to assemble
If you’re looking for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts, this Proform elliptical trainer is for you!
This hybrid trainer features a stair-stepper-like path that combines well with upper-body punching movements. It allows different muscle groups to work for a holistic workout.
I promise that this machine will help you quickly and effectively build strength while getting those calories burned.
The iFit feature allows you to take on-demand classes with many cardio workout options, ensuring a great calorie burn throughout your workout. It also has 40 pre-set workouts to help you even without the subscription.
Despite the intensity, you’re still guaranteed a comfortable ride thanks to the oversized cushioned pedals and multifunctional handlebars.
This is the machine for you if you’re looking for an intense way to lose weight with ellipticals.
7: NordicTrack FS14i – Most High-End
Main Features
- Dimensions: 58.5 L x 29.5 W x 74 H inches
- Item weight: 287 lbs
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs
- Stride length: 32 inches
- Price: $2,499
Pros
- Free one year of iFit
- Heavy flywheel
- Many resistance levels
- Ergonomic
Cons
- Complicated assembly
- Heavy machine
- Expensive
This NordicTrack is the most luxurious out of all the ellipticals on this list, given its features and comfort. But I’m telling you that it’s all worth it, especially with how this works the upper and lower body muscles.
This elliptical includes over 26 resistance levels which you can easily adjust according to the desired intensity of your workout.
It also features a heavy flywheel with silent magnetic resistance. You’ll get a quiet and smooth machine regardless of your workout’s speed, incline, or intensity.
You can go exploring around the world using your iFit subscription! Its highly interactive system allows you to customize your program and provide a more immersive workout easily.
Enjoy on-demand, and live classes to guide you when working out. While luxurious, they will surely help you achieve your goals in fitness and health.
8: Bowflex Max Total 16 – Best Elliptical for Streaming
Main Features
- Dimensions: 49.3 L x 30.8 W x 65.7 H inches
- Item weight: 155.4 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride length: N/A
- Price: $2,499
Pros
- Full-color touchscreen with apps
- Preloaded programs
- Compact
- Varying resistance levels
Cons
- Expensive
- JRNY app requires a subscription
- Can be noisy
Who says you can’t be entertained while working out? While it may be an expensive idea, it is possible and worth it.
The most notable feature of this Bowflex elliptical is its full-color 16-inch HD touchscreen display (hence the price). It comes with eight pre-programmed workouts and a 2-month free trial on JRNY.
However, it’s become iconic because it doesn’t just give you the statistics of your workouts. It also provides you with entertainment!
You can connect it to the internet to access streaming media sites. Watch your favorite movies or series on Hulu and Netflix while working out with a tap on your screen!
It also has 20 resistance levels which you can adjust according to the intensity of your workout. Regardless of foot size, anyone can easily use this elliptical thanks to its extra-wide foot pedals.
It also has a storage area for your gadgets and a water bottle holder, making it like a cinema in the form of fitness equipment. Thanks to the included wheels, you can roll the elliptical into its storage place when not in use.It’s another luxurious elliptical on this list, but it will keep your mind stimulated while producing those endorphins. That’s double the happiness in my book.
9: Proform Hybrid Trainer XT – Best Hybrid Trainer
Main Features
- Dimensions: 24.5 W x 70.5 D x 60.5 H inches
- Item weight: 132 lbs
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Stride length: 15 inches
- Price: $599
Pros
- 14 pre-set workouts
- Affordable
- Simple assembly
- Adjustable to body sizes
Cons
- Basic console
- No media shelf
- Large machine
Physical therapists will encourage you to keep up with exercise to help with weak knees. However, some regular fitness routines can be dangerous or cause discomfort or further injury.
Luckily, this Proform hybrid trainer was designed to prevent ankle and knee stress. It includes an ergonomic seat and can be used in two ways, meaning you won’t have to do your workouts standing up!
This elliptical takes the best parts of the recumbent bike, making it more accessible for those with bad knees. Get that cardio workout and build your strength without stressing the joints.
It also includes seven elliptical and seven bike pre-set workouts, making the machine easy to use even without the iFit subscription.This elliptical is a simple machine with no extra or luxurious features. However, it’s affordable and will help you get the workout you need without putting your joints at risk.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Elliptical Machine
Finding the best elliptical can be overwhelming, especially with the many features and variations. However, these features can easily affect the safety and effectiveness of your workout.
Here are the factors I’ve looked into while searching for the best ellipticals in the market:
1: Comfort
When you’re working out using a machine, it always helps if it puts you a bit out of your comfort zone. After all, it gives you challenges and pushes your body to adapt to different stretches and exercises.
However, it would be best if you were also comfortable enough to keep your body in natural positions. It shouldn’t cause additional pain, especially given the low-impact nature of an elliptical workout.
For additional features regarding comfort, you can look into the following parts of the ellipticals:
- Size of foot pedals
- Cushions and paddings
- Type of handlebars
- Readability of LCD (if applicable)
Comfort may also depend on your body type. Some ellipticals may have oversized foot pedals or allow longer strides for taller people.
2: Functionality
The best ellipticals tend to come with multiple functions. These features help create the best workout programs for different people, no matter their fitness level.
Your elliptical’s system or applications can easily track your fitness journey, providing numbers and statistics of your progress.
Flywheel
The flywheel is a heavy rotating wheel inside the elliptical, providing stability and momentum to your workouts. It also offers magnetic resistance for your machine while you work out.
Besides providing a smooth ride, it can also increase the intensity of your routine.
Magnetic resistance means the closer the magnet is to your flywheel, the more resistant it is to your movements, making it more challenging.
Resistance Levels
As stated in the list, ellipticals can come with different levels of resistance. The more high-tech ellipticals tend to have more variation.
On the other hand, simpler ellipticals may have limited levels to fit beginners and people who still need to adjust to simpler workout types.
When looking into ellipticals, it’s essential to look into what their resistance levels have to offer.
Incline
The ellipticals’ incline also adds variation to workouts. Adjusting the slope can make your workout easier or harder, depending on how you set it.
It helps activate the different muscle groups and change the intensity of your workout. All these can be done without adjusting your resistance and speed levels.
You can also mix it up with the other features of your elliptical, making a program that specifically fits your preferences and limits.
3: Features
Most ellipticals have many features designed to help you navigate a healthier and fitter lifestyle. Some may offer more than others, but they’re all there for a reason.
The levels of resistance usually help the lower body muscles. However, most resistance levels also affect how you work the different upper body muscles too.
The more variety you have, the more you can challenge yourself with the intensities of your workout. It also includes features like adjustable incline and more.
For the more luxurious ellipticals, expect to see high-tech screens which you can connect to your WiFi, Bluetooth, sensors, and more. Water bottle holders are also there to keep you hydrated while you work out.
These will help you track your progress, calories burned, vitals, and more. They’re also compatible with subscriptions that can provide a personal trainer or apps like Hulu and Netflix.
These features can affect the price of your exercise equipment in general, not just ellipticals. Ensure you consider these when buying an elliptical since it’s important to have the features you need to help you with your workout.
4: Weight Capacity
Elliptical machines were built to accommodate all body types and fitness levels. It’s essential to look into the user weight capacity of the elliptical to see if it’s safe for you.
Some machines may have a smaller capacity, limiting their users. It also affects the elliptical’s size, weight, and other capabilities.
Other features may also be affected by the adjustment of weight capacities. Those with higher capacities may have bigger or oversized pedals to accommodate heavier weights.
Knowing the weight capacity of your elliptical will also ensure your safety during a workout session.
5: Durability
It’s important to consider the construction of any equipment, especially exercise machines. Look into the durability of the materials used and their assembly before purchasing.
It also helps to check reviews regarding durability. It gives insight into the product’s reliability from a different user’s perspective.
Check if there are any loose or damaged materials as soon as you receive them. You’ll also have to ensure that your assembled elliptical isn’t wobbly because that can be dangerous.
The durability of the flywheel is essential because it affects the balance of your machine as a whole. Try to find an elliptical with a heavy flywheel.
If you receive any damaged equipment, DON’T USE THEM. Instead, immediately get in touch with customer service and ask for assistance to replace it.
6: Stride Length
The ellipticals’ stride length determines the reach of your steps while working out.
Shorter people may be more comfortable with a compact stride length, which can also result in a more compact machine. However, it may not be comfortably usable for taller people.
You can easily compute the best stride length for your height. Pedometers and activity trackers generally calculate for them using the following equations:
- For women: height in inches x 0.413 = stride length
- For men: height in inches x 0.415 = stride length
These can be further personalized depending on your body type, flexibility, goals, and preferences.
7: Price
It’s no secret that ellipticals can be expensive, especially the more high-tech ones.
When purchasing an elliptical, it’s important to consider the price and your budget. Remember that certain features may make your machine more expensive.
Some machines may also require monthly subscriptions for you to use their features.
These can be tracking applications or workout programs built into the elliptical. They can also be connected to entertainment applications like Netflix or Hulu.
When you’re factoring in your budget, ensure that the essential features stay.
Some subscriptions and features can be considered luxuries. Focus more on features that help you progress with your fitness journey.
8: Space and Assembly
It’s important to consider the space where you’re going to put your elliptical. After all, the machines can come in various sizes with additional accessories.
If you have a small space, I recommend going for the more compact or foldable ellipticals. Some ellipticals can also be folded or rolled away when not in use.
Ellipticals are usually delivered in parts and must be assembled in your home. You can also look into reviews regarding assembly to know what you could deal with.Some manufacturers might offer additional assembly fees if you want them to do it for you.
What Are Elliptical Machines?
Ellipticals are one of the most famous exercise equipment for those who like following a cardio workout. They’re also a favorite choice for the home gym.
These machines are designed to combine the natural motions of walking along with the movements of stair climbing.
I can compare it to a standing bike.
You’d need to move the pedals to work your lower body while exercising your upper body with its handlebars. It also has various levels of resistance and inclines to give you challenges.
However, unlike other cardio workouts and equipment, this focuses on low-intensity workouts. It makes those hardcore-looking workouts accessible to all kinds of people.
Benefits of an Elliptical Trainer
Elliptical trainers come with plenty of workout benefits, making them one of the most sought-after exercise machines in gyms and for the home.
The main benefit of an elliptical is that it allows anyone to experience cardio without putting a lot of strain on the body.
Whether at home or in a gym, this machine will help you work on your whole body, regardless of your fitness background.
Is This the Machine for Me?
Ellipticals are recommended for those who want to stay active without stressing the joints. You can enjoy the same aerobic exercise benefits as treadmills without straining your body.
You can pair it with other cardio workouts and a balanced diet to achieve a healthier and fitter body.
It’s important to remember that you must also consider factors like budget and features when looking for the best elliptical machine for your home gym.
If an elliptical workout isn’t enough, you can always balance it with other lightweight exercises. It also helps to add variation to your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You may have more questions about elliptical machines.
So, I’ve gathered and answered some elliptical machine FAQs to further help you with your research.
What Is the Average Cost of an Elliptical Machine?
An elliptical machine would usually range from $500 to $2000.
However, the price may vary depending on the elliptical’s features and construction.
Can the Elliptical Machine Be Used for a Full-Body Workout?
Yes, you can use an elliptical for a full-body workout. Despite being a low-impact workout, it targets the upper and lower body.
Compared to the treadmill, exercise bike, and other stationary fitness equipment, ellipticals are better at exercising the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves.
You can also balance it with a workout for the arms and core. Thanks to its machine arms which help with the routine, your whole body will move the entire time.
How Many Calories Can You Burn on an Elliptical?
The calories burned during an elliptical workout would depend on the user’s weight, the intensity of their workout, and the duration.
According to Harvard, a 2021 study showed that a 30-minute elliptical workout could generally burn up to:
- 270 calories for a person at 125 lbs.
- 324 calories for a person at 155 lbs.
- 399 calories for a person at 185 lbs.
Remember to balance calorie loss with proper diet and hydration so your body can properly recuperate after a great workout.
Are Elliptical Machines Safe?
Yes, they are safe, provided that you follow the safety guidelines of the machine.
Generally, ellipticals are safe, even for those who may be going through treatments. However, like any machine, it still comes with its risks.
It’s important to follow its safety guidelines and practice proper form to lessen these risks and have an efficient workout.
Fortunately, ellipticals can also come with safety features. Try to look for accessories, like a chest strap, which provides support if you fall off.
If you’re using an elliptical in the gym for the first time, you should ask a personal trainer for help. They would usually demonstrate how to use the elliptical safely.
You should also know when it’s time to stop working out.
Keep yourself hydrated and take breaks as needed. After all, it’s also essential to balance the calories burned with a balanced diet.
A Recap of the Top Picks
I’ve discussed ellipticals, how they work, and how you can choose the best elliptical for yourself.
While different ellipticals are available for different people, I’ve found the top three that can accommodate most people.
Here’s a recap of the best ellipticals on the market and why they’re loved by many:
NordicTrack FS10i – Most Compact Elliptical
Main Features
- Dimensions: 58.5 L x 29.5 W x 74 H inches
- Item weight: 284 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs.
- Stride length: 32 in
- Price: $1,999
This elliptical is the best for people living in small spaces.
While it’s NordicTrack’s most compact option, it doesn’t sacrifice features. Enjoy this elliptical’s excellent stride length and high weight capacity without taking up much space at home.
Not only is it compact, but it also offers excellent training programs. You’ll be guaranteed to work your whole body and its muscles with this elliptical’s different functions.
Bowflex Max Trainer M9 – Best Workout
Main Features
- Dimensions: 46 L x 26 W x 64.2 H inches
- Item weight: 148 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride length: 16 inches
- Price: $1,399
The main goal of an elliptical is to work the lower and upper body in a low-intensity fashion. The Bowflex M9 was able to promote that flawlessly.
Its unique motions can provide many benefits, especially with how it pushes your upper body. It helps you burn more calories in less time, making it one of the most efficient machines.
Work your whole body using one exercise machine with the Bowflex M9.
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 – Best Overall
Main Features
- Dimensions: 67 L x 29 W x 69 H inches
- Item weight: 210 lbs
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Stride length: 19 inches
- Price: $1,499
The well-rounded nature of this NordicTrack model makes it the best elliptical. It’s great, whether it’s just for you or if you’re sharing it with your family.
Get the best features of an elliptical with how flexible and adjustable this machine is.
With this elliptical, you’re guaranteed a comfortable and luxurious full-body workout experience.
Conclusion
An elliptical cross trainer is great for improving calorie burn and strength. It’s compatible with almost any body type and fitness level, making it accessible.If you’re looking for a great low-impact cardio workout that won’t cause stress to your body, try out one of the ellipticals on this list!
