Have you been eying the elliptical machine at your gym, wishing that you could work out on it but a little too cautious to try? Maybe you want to buy one for your home or even a gym. Regardless of why elliptical machines have caught your interest, you are in luck. Today we tackle everything about these machines. For starters, we will be discussing why you ought to start working out with this magnificent equipment. Want to buy one? Stick around and find out how to choose the best one for you whether it’s for your home or gym. To top it off, below is an in-depth review of the best elliptical machines in the market. Ready? Here we go.
Best Elliptical Machine 2020 – Comparison Table!
[content-egg module=Amazon template=list]Best Elliptical Machine 2020 – Comparison Table!
#1 ProForm Hybrid Trainer
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]Without the impact on your joints, this elliptical machine, just like all other machines, mimics the motion of running and is especially beneficial to people who want to exercise at home and have an intense and full-body workout. This is a versatile and cheap equipment that can be easily transformed into a recumbent bike with some steps. It is very convenient since it is cheaper, reasonable, durable and relatively quiet machine. The 2017 model is slightly heavier and has an incredibly beautiful and more functional console area. With an overall more modern and sleek look, it also has a ventilated seat back. This budget friendly machine is vital if you want a long-term commitment to work out because it comes with 15 level of resistance and 14 workout apps that help you monitor and modify the intensity of your work-out.
The best part about this is that it is two in one, it is iPod compatible, and it has both the LCD and watts power meter which enable you to always know your pace and adjust it accordingly. Lastly, it has adjustable and oversized pedals that ensure that you are comfortable.
#2 Horizon Fitness EX-57 Elliptical Trainer
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]Quite easy to build and assemble, this is one of the best entry level machines in the market. It is especially best for one who is on a tight budget yet wants a high quality and durable machine to use for a long period. The manufacturers are extremely confident in the top notch quality that they have given the machine a lifetime warranty on the frame and a twenty-year warranty on brakes. It has a well-balanced, strong steel frame and a front mounted flywheel designed purposely to ensure a smooth elliptical motion.
With just a touch of a button, the 8 level of resistance that it has, enables you to change the intensity to something suitable for you at any given time. One unique feature is that it has a water bottle holder because the manufacturers understand that water is vital for any workout and you will need it now and then to stay hydrated.
You can count on this machine to give you a great experience because it has nine work-out programs, a non-backlit screen, and very comfortable pedals.
#3 Exerpeutic 5000 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]Packed with many features, this machine employs advanced technology to ensure the customer reaps all the benefits from that. It stands out mainly because it is Bluetooth enabled and is compatible with most android and apple products which enable you to track your workouts. It has an extremely impressive body build made from high quality and sturdy steel that can hold 275 pounds. It also comes with wheels for convenience during movement. It highly utilizes magnets to increase the intensity and difficulty and also to ensure consistent resistance throughout your workout.
Just like other machines, it has a variety of pre-programmed workouts you can choose from and also has incline adjustment whereby you can adjust when you want for a more rigorous exercise. It is important to also not that it has an eighteen-inch stride meaning that people under six feet can comfortably use it. Although it is a notable strong 3-piece cranking system, its warranty is only limited to one year which is very unfortunate especially for its price range. Many people have highly praised it, however, for being a good elliptical machine which works your upper and lower body while preventing pain in the ankles and knees.
#4 Body Rider BRD2000 Elliptical Trainer
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]This distinctive fitness equipment is very common and highly recommended because it is a two in one, expanding your potential because it has settings for an exercise bike and an elliptical trainer. With a monitor which shows and tracks time, calories burned and distance among many other, this machine is perfect for full body workout more especially the upper and lower body. It also has an intuitive and adjustable resistance system to help you further with your exercise. For upright elliptical use, this machine has foot pedals and elliptical arms to help with that.
Additionally, it has a chain driven fan wheel whose main function is to give you breeze during your work-out. This trainer is very easy to design and good for someone who is on a strict budget. Finally, it can fit users of different heights and weights because it has seats that can be adjusted horizontally and vertically to accommodate the users.
#5 Sunny Health and Fitness Pink Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]This is an elliptical trainer that is ideal for slowly paced people and relatively new exercisers because it has very basic features, is reliable and is very affordable. It is very sturdy and durable and is made of steel. The machine is very compact and lightweight which makes it very convenient during relocation added to the fact that it doesn’t occupy much space.
This is a machine that is rampant in most homes because of the benefits that are associated with it. It has very advanced features that are customized for specific clients, and it is used to mainly stimulate some exercises such as running.
It has the display console which shows total distance and calories burnt and oversized pedals for secure footing. Also, it has 8-level tension controller and weighs 220lbs.
#6 Sole Fitness E95 Elliptical Machine
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]Constantly referred to as the best choice and the best front drive trailer, this is a great machine that will definitely give you a challenging workout and help you get you in shape. This machine has been upgraded recently and now incorporates great features which are highly customized. This pricey elliptical machine looks professional and sleek and has a very effective resistance. It comes with a 34-pound flywheel which ensures that the arm handles and pedals are moving smoothly.
No matter what your fitness goals are, this machine has the best onboard programs such as interval programs and weight which is specifically designed to assist you. Also, it has a console screen and Bluetooth connection which allows the user to use his device such as a smartphone to monitor the program. The manufacturers have gone an extra mile with features such as a cooling fan and a water bottle holder to further motivate you during work-out. The frame has a lifetime warranty and electronics, and other essential parts have a five-year warranty which is quite impressive.
#7 Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
[content-egg module=Amazon template=item disable_features=1 next=1 hide=title]This is an entry level machine that has great features at a discount price. This machine is ideal for home use and is perfect for people of any skill level that require low impact work out. It is very effective especially when it comes to the upper and lower body workout while at the same time it is very easy on the joints. Some of its best features include 20 inches stride length, 22 programs and 20 level of resistance.
Also, for the workout challenge, it has six position manual ramps. It is also very popular because its ride is friction free which gives it a low maintenance cost and also has a flywheel for a smooth ride. It has transport wheel which makes it easy to move it from one place to another and has the additional features such as the fans and the water bottle holder.
Features Of A Great Elliptical Machine
#1 Inclination.
Not all elliptical machines incline and the once that do, usually come at a higher price. However, this feature is quite important as it helps challenge your workout. With inclination that can adjust, you can target different muscle groups which not only varies your workouts but also give you a total body workout.
#2 Both forward and reverse motion.
This is another feature that adds variation to your workout. But that’s not all it does. Being able to switch between forward and back motion allows you to fully work your muscles. Reverse motion is especially great for working your calves. It also reduces the chances of overworking one muscle group which usually results in injury.
While still on the topic of motion, go for a machine that allows upper body motion too. This will help give you a complete body workout in one session. With both the pedals and handles moving, it can be really difficult to get balance. So, be extra careful and take baby steps (literally) until you master the motions.
Also, look for a machine that provides smooth motion. You should not be feeling or hearing any rattles, bouncing, cracks or kicks despite the direction you are pedaling in.
#3 Resistance should adjust.
Yes, elliptical machines also come with different resistance. This will help challenge your workout giving your muscles endurance and growth. You can change resistance in a couple of ways from your console such as increasing the difficulty in paddling. Look for a machine with such options to increase your workout variation among other things.
#4 Quiet operation.
This is pretty much self-explanatory and straightforward. Go for a machine that does not whistle or rattle when in use. This will ensure you not only avoid bugging your neighbors but also have a peaceful workout.
#5 Safety, maintenance and storage features.
Safe machines are usually lockable to ensure that the parts are not moving especially when not in use. This will ensure that you do not fall off when getting on. Also, consider the ease in maintaining your machine. If it brings extra work other than the usual wipe down and occasional greasing of parts, avoid it. Some machines come being compact and quite easy to fold hence saving on storage space. Try these if you are short on space.
#6 Warranty.
Warranty plays a huge role in determining the durability of your machine. I suggest you pay close attention to this. Go for a product that has a generous warranty, enough to allow servicing of the parts with time. Also, focus on the warranty on specific parts such as the console. For such major parts, you will be given a lifetime warranty. It varies between companies. But don’t settle for anything without a warranty. It is probably a fake.
#7 Great console.
Your machine’s console is another thing that you do not want to overlook. The first thing it should be is easy to use. You do not need a bunch of buttons and commands to simply launch a program. With two to three entries, you should be able to navigate the important parts of the console.
Secondly, it should have the normal features that allow you to track your progress. Such include the incline level, speed, resistance, time and calories burned. Great consoles also have a heart rate monitor. This is quite efficient as it allows you to workout at just the right pace. Too fast will result in overworking your body and injuries while too slow is not enough to give you progressive workout. Other than just monitoring your heart rate, you can key it into the machine and let it lead you to a progressive workout.
#8 Programs.
This is one controversy that never seems to end. Should you use the programs on your machine, or just focus on what you know. Well, my answer to this is to enjoy both. If you are a newbie, the programs will really help in setting you up with a workout routine. You can later tweak it to your preferences as you advance to increase your gains.
For those who already have set workout routines, programs wouldn’t be of much use. But a look at them can really help improve your routine especially because most are crafted by fitness professionals.
Want The Best Machine For Your Needs?
Choosing an elliptical machine is not easy, especially because different individuals come with different needs. This means that the machine that will work for me will not be as effective to another user. So, when buying an elliptical machine, especially if it is your first time, considering the factors below will really help you chose the best one.
Think of the users.
Buying a machine for a gym and for home use are entirely two different things. Obviously, a gym machine will be accessed by many individuals. This means that you have to make it as accommodative as possible. For one, make sure it is easily and fully adjustable so as to accommodate different people’s needs. This means that other than the handles and foot pedals being adjustable, it should have both forward and reverse motion. The weight capacity is something else you don’t want to ignore when buying any gym equipment, an elliptical machine included. Go as high as your money can allow. This means, a weight limit of 250 pounds and above is highly advised.
On the other hand, a personal machine doesn’t need so much consideration in terms of weight. Simply pick one that is slightly above your weight. If it is for use by the whole family, consider everyone’s needs and weights.
What are your goals?
This is perhaps the most important thing you ought to think about when buying an elliptical machine. Most people use this machine for cross training due to its ability to give a low impact workout. This means that you will not be needing the extra features such as multiple programs since you will not be using this equipment that much.
For a full body workout, consider a machine with both forward and reverse motion.
Check your pockets.
Unfortunately, these machines don’t come cheap. Fine, they are way cheaper than most equipment like treadmills but, nonetheless, it is something you need to financially plan for before going all in. luckily, there are elliptical machines ranging from crazy expensive to affordable. Using a little online research, you can decide what machine to go with. Keep in mind that the more features it has, the more expensive is going to be so, be ready to compromise on some features for a lower price.
Shop from a good dealer.
After a thorough online research for great products, the next step is to pull out your wallet and start shopping. This can work two ways, you can go online and shop for your product or go directly to the store and scoop it up. Whichever way you decide to go, look for a dealer who will not only have a good price but also bring enticing offers to the table. For instance, a good seller will definitely show you how the machine works and for online shops, give you a user manual. Or e-book. Think of the after sale services too, a good seller should be able to deliver to your doorstep and assemble where need be.
Take it for a test run first.
You would be surprised at how often guys buy machines without testing them out first. This usually ends up creating a whole lot of issues. Before buying, hop on the machine and see whether you like its feel. Does it move smoothly and effortlessly?
If you are shopping online, testing may not be an option until the product arrives. However, you can test on products brought by other users. Go to a gym with a similar product and try it out to see if it is good enough. It will be worth it in the end.
How much space do you have?
Having a machine that is so huge that it takes up all the room in your apartment can be quite frustrating. This is why you need to consider the space in your home before buying. If you are short on space, consider a machine which is smaller. There are quite a variety when it comes to size. You can also go for the foldable type such that you will easily store it away after use.
Final Word.
No doubt, elliptical machines are taking over the workout scene. This is due to their ability to deliver a quality workout without compromising your comfort. That said, you ought to pick the right machine in order to get the desired workout. I hope you now have an idea of the right machine for you thanks to our in-depth review. It has been my pleasure, just make sure you keep your workouts energized and fun!
