Best Elliptical - Get Your Workout at Home
Our Picks For Best Ellipticals: Nautilus E618 Elliptical; Horizon EX-59 Elliptical; Bowflex Max Trainer M9; NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Elliptical and Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
Looking for a way to get in shape without leaving your home?
Elliptical machines are one of the most popular pieces of exercise equipment because they offer a low-impact workout that is gentle on your joints. And now you can buy an elliptical machine for your home that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a large or small elliptical machine, we have something perfect for you. All of our machines come with beginner-friendly features, so you don’t have to be an expert to use them. Plus, our elliptical machines come with a big touchscreen display so you can watch your favorite shows or listen to music while you work out.
Buyers Guide To Find The Best Elliptical
Choosing the best elliptical for your home gym can significantly enhance your workout routine, offering a low-impact yet effective way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect elliptical for your needs.
1. Determine Your Budget
Ellipticals come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Establishing a budget helps narrow down your options:
- Entry-Level ($200 - $500): Basic features, suitable for light use.
- Mid-Range ($500 - $1,500): Better build quality, more features, suitable for regular use.
- High-End ($1,500 and above): Advanced features, robust build, suitable for intense use.
2. Consider Your Space
Measure the area where you plan to place the elliptical. Ensure there is enough room not only for the machine itself but also for safe and comfortable use. Consider foldable models if space is limited.
3. Stride Length
The stride length is crucial for comfort and effectiveness:
- Shorter Stride (16-18 inches): Suitable for shorter individuals.
- Longer Stride (20-22 inches): Ideal for taller users and a more natural running motion.
4. Resistance and Incline
Resistance levels and incline features add variety to your workouts:
- Magnetic Resistance: Offers smooth and quiet operation.
- Adjustable Incline: Allows for targeting different muscle groups and increasing workout intensity.
5. Flywheel Weight
The flywheel affects the smoothness and stability of the elliptical:
- Light Flywheel (10-15 lbs): Suitable for beginners.
- Heavy Flywheel (20+ lbs): Provides a smoother, more stable experience, suitable for more intense workouts.
6. Console Features
Modern ellipticals come with various console features to enhance your workout:
- Display: Look for a clear, easy-to-read display showing key metrics (time, speed, distance, calories, heart rate).
- Programs: Pre-set workout programs can add variety and keep you motivated.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB ports, and app compatibility can offer additional benefits such as tracking progress and streaming workouts.
7. Build Quality and Durability
Check the construction and materials used. A sturdy frame and high-quality parts ensure longevity and safety. Look for ellipticals with a high user weight capacity to gauge their durability.
8. Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort features make your workouts more enjoyable:
- Padded Handles: For a comfortable grip.
- Adjustable Pedals: To fit your stride and reduce strain.
- Quiet Operation: Especially important if you have a shared living space.
9. Safety Features
Ensure the elliptical has safety features, especially if you have children:
- Non-Slip Pedals: To prevent slipping during workouts.
- Emergency Stop: To quickly stop the machine if needed.
10. Warranty and Customer Support
A good warranty and reliable customer support are signs of a reputable manufacturer:
- Frame Warranty: Should be the longest, often lifetime.
- Parts and Labor Warranty: Typically ranges from 1 to 3 years.
Choosing the best elliptical involves balancing your budget with desired features, considering space constraints, and focusing on build quality and comfort. By taking the time to research and test different models, you can find an elliptical that fits your fitness goals and lifestyle, ensuring a worthwhile investment in your health and well-being.
Top Picks
Nautilus E618 Elliptical
Specifications
- Dimensions: 73"D x 27"W x 67"H
- Item Weight: 210 Pounds
- Resistance Mechanism: Friction
- Max Weight: 300 Pounds
- Package Weight: 104.78 Kilograms
Why We Love It
Looking for an elliptical machine that's rugged, versatile, and features great ergonomics? Look no further than the Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer! This tough machine features 25 levels of resistance, a 10-degree motorized incline, and a generous 22-inch stride. Plus, the padded foot pedals are adjustable so you can set it up to perfectly fit your natural movement.
And the best part? The system tracks metrics like time, distance, and calories on the LCD - so you can always see your progress. Granted, the LCD is nothing to write home about. But if you're mainly looking to keep track of your workouts, it'll get the job done.
The E618 works best in conjunction with Nautilus's Explore the World app, which lets you cycle through beautiful courses around the world (you'll need to pay a subscription for certain features). So if you want to follow along as you work out, you can! Get ready to push yourself like never before with the Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer.
What You Should Know
Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer is a great way to get fit and have fun at the same time. With dozens of workout programs and levels of resistance, the E618 gives you plenty of options to stay challenged.
Plus, the fully featured console, Bluetooth connectivity, and app-based tracking tools make it easy to monitor your progress and reach your goals. So if you're looking for an innovative and effective way to get in shape, the Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer is a great choice.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Lots of resistance
- Comes with a large stride for a great workout
- Simple but effective LCD
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical
Specifications
- Dimensions: 74"D x 25"W x 64.5"H
- Material: Aluminum
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Max Weight: 300 Pounds
- Package Weight: 82.55 Kilograms
Why We Love It
Looking for a fitness machine that won't break the bank? The Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical is perfect for beginners! It's easy to assemble and use, with one-touch keys and 10 resistance levels. Plus, its affordable price point makes it a great choice for those just starting on their fitness journey.
And as your strength and endurance increase, the EX-59 has enough features to keep you challenged, with built-in Bluetooth speakers, a device deck, and a charging port. So come on in and give it a try - your perfect workout awaits!
What You Should Know
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Machine is our best-selling and most-awarded elliptical. It features a fast setup, simple controls, and reliable components. Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical is built on an ergonomic SixStar Frame to encourage ideal body position, with an 18-inch stride length for comfort.
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Machine has integrated Bluetooth speakers and a secure device holder to keep things simple and motivating. Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical is easy to assemble with assembly in 30 minutes or less.
Whether you like to sweat to music, movies, or on-demand classes, Horizon makes it easy to stay connected to the content that moves you. Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical goes beyond the workout with a quick and easy setup. This Horizon elliptical lets you add a personal twist to take your workout further than ever.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Low Price.
- Ideal For Beginners
- Not many bells and whistles.
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
Specifications
- Dimensions: 30.79"D x 47.83"W x 65.2"H
- Material: Metal
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Max Weight: 300 Pounds
- Package Weight: 75.75 Kilograms
Why We Love It
Looking for a workout machine that will give you a full-body, low-impact workout while also burning lots of calories? Look no further than the Bowflex Max Trainer M9! This unique machine combines the best of an elliptical with a stair stepper, giving you 20 levels of resistance to choose from.
The 10-inch color HD touchscreen keeps you informed about your progress and is compatible with the JRNY app, which offers personalized exercises. You also get a free two-month trial of this app with your purchase. Up to four users can use the machine, making it great for families or groups of friends who want to get in shape together. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to get a workout machine that does it all!
What You Should Know
Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is a top-of-the-line home gym that comes with 20 levels of resistance. This is an extensive range of difficulty that will outlast even the most advanced fitness enthusiast. In addition to the extreme levels of resistance, the Bowflex JRNY App adds another level of challenge in a motivating and fun way.
The App is built on an artificial intelligence platform, which means while you work out it will automatically assess your workouts and suggest the next level of difficulty on your way to your personal goals. The app is not included in the cost of the M8 – the subscription is $149 annually or $14.95 per month. With the Bowflex Max Trainer M9, you have everything you need to reach your fitness goals.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- A smaller footprint helps you place wherever you want
- Free workout mat comes in handy for any surface
- Can be loud at higher speeds
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Elliptical
Specifications
- Dimensions: 31.9"D x 78.7"W x 66.4"H
- Material: Steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Max Weight: 325 Pounds
- Package Weight: 98.88 Kilograms
Why We Love It
The NordicTrack SE9i SpaceSaver is the perfect elliptical for people who want a great workout without taking up a lot of space. This innovative machine folds up vertically, so it can easily be stored in a corner or closet. But don't let its small size fool you - the SE9i has all the features you need for an amazing workout.
With 24 resistance levels and 10 degrees of adjustable incline, this elliptical is sure to give you a challenge. Plus, the integrated fan and padded foot pedals make your workout more comfortable. The 7-inch HD touchscreen is also compatible with iFit software, so you can take your workouts to the next level with real-world locations and trainers. Don't miss out on this incredible elliptical - get the NordicTrack SE9i SpaceSaver today!
What You Should Know
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Elliptical is the top elliptical trainer in the NordicTrack SpaceSaver Series. It shares many performance specs with the SE7i, but it has advanced electronics and carries a much longer warranty. The new SE9i is distinguished by its 14″ touchscreen, which is high definition and ready for browsing the web while exercise stats are collected in the background.
Price-wise though, the SE7i now comes effectively free with a four-year commitment to the iFit app. This translates into a price of $1,872, but that’s a machine plus app.
Meanwhile, the SE9i brings onboard entertainment including a tablet computer shelf and a set of 2-inch digitally amplified speakers and Bluetooth audio. Other key specs are wireless heart rate monitoring, an 18″ auto-adjustable stride, an 18-pound flywheel, Intelli-Guard safety sensors that pause the belt when you step off mid-workout, and 25 resistance levels. There are also 29 built-in workout apps created by certified personal trainers.
Transport wheels make it easy to move around too. It has a maximum user weight capacity of 375 pounds and carries NordicTrack’s best warranty–a lifetime frame warranty and five years on parts and labor. All things considered, it’s hard to beat the NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Elliptical.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Folds up easily with great ergonomics
- Stride too short for some users
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
Specifications
- Dimensions: 55"D x 23"W x 64.5"H
- Material: Steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Max Weight: 330 Pounds
- Package Weight: 53.07 Kilograms
Why We Love It
Looking for a quality elliptical trainer that won't break the bank? Look no further than Sunny Health & Fitness! The Magnetic Elliptical Trainer offers 16 levels of motorized magnetic resistance, making it perfect for people with a short strides.
The onboard LCD lets you track your speed, time, distance, calories, and other metrics, while the 24 workout modes keep you challenged and motivated. Plus, you can easily mount your tablet or phone above the display for a seamless streaming workout experience. Get fit and have fun with Sunny Health & Fitness!
What You Should Know
Sunny Health & Fitness is a company that is known for its quality Exercise equipment, and the Sunny SF-905 elliptical is no exception. If you are looking for an affordable way to get a low-impact cardio workout in from the comfort of your own home, then this elliptical would be an excellent choice for you.
This elliptical is designed to fit into a smaller space, but it is not short on quality. The Sunny Elliptical SF-905 uses revolutionary magnetic resistance to provide a smooth flowing workout for your upper and lower body. The hand pulse monitoring system built into the stationary bars helps you to monitor and maintain your target heart rate.
With 8 levels of resistance to choose from, you can design a custom workout aimed at helping you meet your fitness goals. So if you are looking for an affordable and effective way to get in shape, then the Sunny SF-905 elliptical trainer should be at the top of your list.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Good price for the quality and features
- 24 workout modes
- Shorter stride
Best Elliptical FAQs
Our comprehensive buyer's guide with frequently asked questions helps you choose the best bike with buyers guide help you decide the perfect option for you.
Here are some of the common frequently asked questions.
Q: Are ellipticals effective?
Answer: Yes, ellipticals are effective. They are a great way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. However, it's important to note that they are not as effective as other forms of aerobic exercise such as running or cycling.
Q: Are ellipticals good for the knees?
Studies show low-impact cardio workouts, like on elliptical machines, or, can increase blood flow to knee cartilage and strengthen the muscles around the knee. This helps keep your knee joints healthy, particularly if you suffer from arthritic knees.
Q: Is an elliptical better for you than a treadmill?
Answer: A treadmill can help you build strength in your leg muscles but it doesn't target the same muscle groups as an elliptical. So it is good to use the elliptical, you can work the muscles in your arms, shoulders, back, chest, and lower body.
Q: Can elliptical burn belly fat?
Answer: Elliptical trainers can help burn calories, and reduce belly fat when used appropriately with the right exercises. When used properly, an elliptical trainer works the entire body including the quadriceps, glutes muscles, hamstrings, chest, back, triceps, and biceps.
Q: Are 30 minutes on the elliptical enough?
Answer: That depends on what your goals are. If your goal is to burn calories, then 30 minutes on the elliptical should be enough. But if you're looking to improve your cardiovascular health, you might want to aim for a little bit more. Try incorporating some high-intensity interval training into your workout routine to see results.
Q: Are 20 minutes of elliptical enough?
Answer: An elliptical trainer is a fantastic form of cardiovascular exercise if used with the right intensity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity or 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity per day for great health benefits.
Q: Which is better for losing belly fat treadmill or the elliptical?
Answer: It depends on what you mean by "better." The treadmill might be better for overall weight loss because it burns more calories, but the elliptical may be better for targeting belly fat specifically.
Both machines have their pros and cons, so it comes down to what you prefer and what works best for you. If you're looking to lose weight, try alternating between the two machines to see which one burns more calories for you. And if your main goal is to target belly fat specifically, then make sure to incorporate lots of high-intensity intervals into your workouts on the elliptical machine.
Q: Is elliptical better than cycling?
Answer: It depends on how you intend to use it but when used at high intensity, a stationary bike burns slightly more calories than the elliptical, potentially making it a better choice for those trying to lose weight. The elliptical, however, helps strengthen both your upper and lower body.
Q: Why do my legs get so tired on the elliptical?
Answer: The elliptical is a great cardio workout, but it can also be tough on your legs if you're not used to it. The motion of the elliptical works your quads, hamstrings and glutes, so if you're not used to it, you may get tired quickly.
You can make the elliptical easier on your legs by adjusting the resistance level. If you find that your legs are getting tired quickly, try increasing the resistance level so that you're working harder on the machine. You can also try taking brief breaks during your workout to give your legs a break.
Q: Will elliptical tone legs?
Answer: Whether you are new to working out or you have been working out for some time, using an elliptical trainer can be a great tool for helping to tone your body. Since an elliptical can be used to target the lower body, upper body, and core muscles, it is an excellent all-around option for toning the body.
Key Takeaways
So if you’re looking for a cardio workout that will have you burning calories and building muscle, an exercise bike is the way to go. And whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned pro, we can help you find the best stationary bike for your needs. Decide which one suits your need from our top picks for the best stationary bikes and happy cycling!