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While all of us would love to make time for the gym and healthy lifestyles, it can be difficult to carve that much time out of your week.
If you’re looking for a way to exercise at home, an elliptical machine is a great option.
They can be used by people of all ages and fitness levels, and they are a great way to recover after an injury as well due to their low-impact method of operation.
Most elliptical machines will offer some sort of connectivity, multiple resistance and/or incline levels, and adjustable stride lengths, so everyone can achieve a great workout.
Elliptical machines are a great way to workout for pretty much everybody, but there is a lot of variation between products that will affect how well-suited they are to each individual.
Things like price, resistance and incline levels, connectivity, and overall size will all impact how well a machine will fit into your home and workout lifestyle.
To help the right decision come easier to you, we have analyzed 26 products over 37 hours and considered 724 consumer reviews.
Following our last update, we recommend the Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 elliptical machine for its convenient features, connectivity, and quality build.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Horizon Fitness!
Elliptical Machine Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine
|
|
9.4/10 | See price on Horizon Fitness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine
|
|
9.8/10 | See price on Best Buy |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer
|
|
8.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Elliptical Machine
Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine Review
The Best Overall
Horizon Fitness
If you’re looking for an elliptical machine that is loaded with all of the convenient features you need and will be reliable for years to come, the Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 elliptical machine is the right choice. With a reasonable price and great warranty coverage, it’s really a no brainer.
Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine
In general, the things we look for in a top pick include general affordability, high quality materials used and a thoughtful design, and longevity. This Horizon Fitness elliptical has all of those things covered and more. With a lifetime warranty on the frame and 1-year coverage for every other component, you can be confident in the durability and reliability of this machine as a whole.
Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect your smart devices in order to play music while you workout, and the device holder ensures you always have somewhere to leave your phone. There is a rapid-charge USB port built in to ensure your device’s never run out of battery during a longer workout. There are 10 resistance levels to choose from, and the 300 lb weight capacity is quite inclusive.
As elliptical machines go, I think this one is pretty great. I can connect my phone via Bluetooth to play my music, and it’s got enough resistance levels to give me room to advance. The workout programs are very effective and great for my mid-level fitness. I recommend this model for everyone looking for a great workout at home, it can suit any fitness level and its price is fair.
kelly-ann j.
This 145 lb model doesn’t offer any incline, which is essentially its only limitation. It keeps track of your calories, distance, heart rate, time, and speed throughout the workout to give you a detailed account of your progress. The one-touch keys and preloaded workout programs ensure you can change it up whenever the mood strikes, and the smaller space between the pedals ensures you have a limited risk of hip and back strain.
Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 74″ x 25″ x 64.5″
- Weight: 145 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 10
- Ramp Angles: None
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Warranty: Lifetime frame warranty, 1-year warranty on everything else
Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Smaller space between pedals to reduce hip and back strain and two sets of handlebars
- Has a device holder and rapid-charge USB port
- One-touch keys and preloaded workout programs
- Can track calories, distance, heart rate, time, and speed
Cons
- No incline
Our Final Opinion about the Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Horizon Fitness HEP0578-01 EX-59 elliptical machine is a well-rounded choice for just about anybody. It has a great weight capacity and all the features needed for an enjoyable user experience. No matter your current fitness level or goals, this machine can help you improve.
Our Upgrade Pick for an Elliptical Machine
NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine Review
The High Performance Pick
NordicTrack
While all elliptical machines can give you a great workout, there are some models that take the experience to the next level. The NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i elliptical machine is one of those product. Although incredibly expensive, it’s got the best feature list out there.
NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of The NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine
At 269 lbs, this NordicTrack elliptical is one of the heaviest models you’ll encounter. However, this hefty design allows the machine to support up to 375 lbs, so no one capable of exercising on a machine of this kind needs to be left out. The resistance isn’t adjustable, but there is a 0-10 degree incline for you to increase the intensity of your workout. The free one-year subscription to iFit will help with your program as well.
With the benefits of a stepper, elliptical, and treadmill all rolled into this one machine, your workouts can be essentially zero impact. This is ideal for people with joint issues or those recovering from an injury, or those simply keen on avoiding injury and strain. The Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity ensures you can access whatever media you like to keep you entertained and motivated while exercising.
I am very impressed by this Nordictrack elliptical. I’ve used some other workout equipment made by this company and I haven’t always been happy with the performance, but this machine was a good buy. I’ve been working on completing a home gym for a few years now, and this was one of the final pieces. It was very expensive, but with the incline and great connectivity, it was everything I wanted.
george e.
The 35 presets built into this machine allow to choose workout programs that target calorie burning, intensity changes, or overall performance. With a water bottle holder and workout fan that automatically adjusts to your intensity, you can stay cool and hydrated quite easily. The one touch controls make it easy for you to modify the workout, and the wireless chest strap ensures you get accurate readings of your heart rate at all times.
NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 29.9” x 74” x 59.1”
- Weight: 269 lbs
- Resistance Levels: None
- Ramp Angles: 0 to 10 degrees
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and WiFi
- Warranty: 2 years on parts
NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Includes a one-year subscription to the iFit coach membership
- Combines the benefits of a stepper, elliptical, and treadmill to be essentially zero impact
- Has a water bottle holder, wireless chest strap for heart rate readings, automatic workout fan that adjusts to your intensity, and one touch controls
- Has 35 presets to choose workout programs for calorie burning, intensity, or performance
Cons
Cons
- Incredibly expensive
- Resistance is not adjustable
Our Final Opinion About the NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 1.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the NordicTrack NTEL71318 FreeStride FS7i elliptical machine is the best choice for people with a high budget looking for the best in luxury features and longevity. You’ll need some help getting it setup, but it has the highest weight capacity and the best performance you can find.
Our Budget Pick for an Elliptical Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer Review
The Budget Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a good workout at home. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 elliptical air walk trainer is the most affordable machine available, and it has the necessary features you need to feel safe and work up a sweat.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer
This Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical is one of the simplest products on the market, but that is also the reason it costs less than a fifth of the next most affordable ellipticals. It weighs only 35 lbs, so is easy for every individual to move around, and it has a fairly adequate weight capacity of 220 lbs. Of course, larger individuals won’t be able to purchase this model due to the safety risk, but many people can still enjoy it.
There is no incline adjustability, and there aren’t any variable resistance levels either. While this doesn’t offer much customizability of the workout, it does keep the process very simple and easy to work with. There isn’t any connectivity built into this machine, but it does have an LCD display that tracks time, count, total distance, and calories burned.
This is the lightest and cheapest elliptical machine I’ve ever seen. I enjoy using them in the gym but I wanted one for at home as well so I don’t always have to go out in bad weather. It doesn’t have a lot of features or anything, but for a low intensity cardio workout, this machine is perfect. It is affordable even for my tiny student budget, so I’m sure everyone else can afford it too.
bryan d.
One of the best things about this elliptical is that it can be folded to half its length when it is not actively in use. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large home, this space saving feature can still be very useful. The non-slip pedals and supportive abdominal help provide a feeling of security and stability while working out, so people of all ages and fitness levels can be comfortable and safe.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer Specifications
- Dimensions: 25” x 19” x 57”
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Resistance Levels: None
- Ramp Angles: None
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: None in Canada
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- LCD display tracks time, count, total distance, and calories
- Can be folded to half its length to save space when not in use
- Ideal for low intensity workouts
- Non-slip pedals and supportive abdominal pad help you feel secure
Cons
- No warranty in Canada
- No resistance or incline levels
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Air Walk Trainer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 elliptical air walk trainer is the best elliptical option for those shopping on a low budget or with very simple needs of a machine. Its space saving design is incredibly convenient for smaller spaces, too.
Alternative Products to Consider
Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine Review
The Stimulating Pick
Schwinn
If you’re looking for an elliptical machine that will help you stay engaged in every second of your workout, then the Schwinn 100517 470 elliptical machine is right for you. It has multiple displays, great connectivity, and all the built in features for engaging with your own media devices.
Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of the Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine
This Schwinn elliptical machine has the ability to sync to your fitness apps, including an app called Run Social. This lets you run through 19 locations with 27 different routes to choose from. Plus, you can connect with everyone else using the app. If you struggle to stay motivated during workouts, this is the perfect way to create some engagement with what you’re doing.
This machine weighs 186 lbs and can support up to 300 lbs, so most people eager to work out on an elliptical will be able to take advantage of all the benefits this model has to offer. There are 25 resistance levels to choose from and a 0 to 10 degree incline you can make use of as well, so you have the freedom to tailor each workout to your fitness level and suit anyone in your family as well.
I’ve never used a connected elliptical machine or treadmill or anything before. My boyfriend thought that it would be a great feature to have, so we went ahead and bought this model. I love that I can sync all my workouts on the elliptical to my fitness app, and I downloaded Run Social just because of this machine. It makes the workouts so much more enjoyable; I don’t even really notice the time pass anymore.
sherri d.
There are 29 unique workout programs loaded into this machine in order to target different areas of your body and improve various fitness outcomes. There are multiple LCD displays to track your progress, a media shelf for holding your devices, a USB media charging port, an adjustable fan, and in-console speakers with MP3 input ports. No matter what you need for your workouts, this machine can offer it.
Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 28.2” x 63.2” x 70.1”
- Weight: 186 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 25
- Ramp Angles: 0 to 10 degrees
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Warranty: 1 year on electronics, 2 years on parts, 10 years on frame
Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Has 29 preloaded workout programs
- Has LCD displays, a media shelf, in-console speakers with MP3 input port, USB media charging and adjustable fan
- Can sync to fitness apps
- Can connect to Run Social app to run through 19 locations with 27 routes
Cons
- Hard to assemble solo
- Not great for tall people
Our Final Opinion About the Schwinn 100517 470 Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Schwinn 100517 470 elliptical machine is the best choice for people who need help staying motivated and engaged in their workout. It is priced quite reasonably and has great programs, but if you’re a taller individual, you’ll want to set it up in a room with high ceilings.
NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer Review
The Space-Saving Pick
NordicTrack
If you live in a small home or simply don’t have a ton of extra floor space for workout equipment, this foldable NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i elliptical trainer is the perfect solution. It has all of the other features you’ll rely on for a great workout and safe experience with every use.
NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer Video Review
What We Think of The NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer
Aside from the busy display, there aren’t many features that fall below expectations. At 215 lbs, this machine won’t be easy to move around solo, but its sturdy, well constructed design allows this machine to support 325 lbs. The 10-year warranty on the frame and the 2-year warranty on all parts gives us a lot of confidence in the longevity of this machine.
The 1-month iFit subscription included with your purchase increases its value and gives you a new way to workout. With free access to all kinds of courses and programs, you can make great progress towards achieving your fitness goals. The 22 resistance levels and adjustable incline also guarantee that you’ll get the most out of each workout and can adapt the training to your individual progress.
I absolutely love that this elliptical can fold. If you live in a small one-bedroom apartment like me, you may think you can’t ever have any workout equipment of your own. I keep this elliptical in my bedroom and only fold it down while I actually need to use it. I am not a fan of gyms, and now I can improve my fitness and muscle tone at home whenever I want to. Highly recommend.
jim p.
With both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, you have unlimited access to all types of media sources such as music, YouTube videos, TV shows and movies, and more. This will help you stay engaged and motivated. The workout fan, water bottle holder, and grippy pedals ensure you stay safe and comfortable while using the machine. The vertical fold ability saves floor space and makes cleaning easier too.
NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer Specifications
- Dimensions: 67” x 32” x 80”
- Weight: 215 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 22
- Ramp Angles: Adjustable
- Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and WiFi
- Warranty: 2 years on parts, 10 years on frame
NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with a 1-month iFit membership
- Has a workout fan and water bottle holder
- Pedals are grippy and have a raised edge to keep you safe
- Can fold vertically to save space when not in use
Cons
- Display is busy and not very intuitive
Our Final Opinion About the NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the NordicTrack NTEL99416 Spacesaver SE7i elliptical trainer is a great fit for anyone eager to save some floor space. It is a bit pricey, so won’t be accessible to everyone, but the quality build and effective workout you’ll be getting with each use make it worth it for most.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine Review
The User-Friendly Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
If you’re in the market for an elliptical machine that is easy to use and has some great info tracking, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 advanced programmed elliptical machine is the ideal choice. It is highly affordable and is sturdy enough to support nearly everyone with the inclination to use it.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine
This Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical has all of the makings of a user-friendly machine. Although it is missing the connectivity that is quite common in most elliptical machines, it does dramatically simplify the display and makes setup much easier. Since the machine weighs just over a hundred pounds, most people should be able to move it around on their own.
The 330 lb weight capacity ensures that almost everyone can be comfortable and secure on the machine. The 16 resistance levels allow people of all fitness levels to start at a stage that is comfortable for them and still have room to grow. The device holder and water bottle holder ensure that all of the things you need handy are easily accessible at all times.
This is a great elliptical machine. It is fairly heavy, I can’t move it around by myself, but my husband helped me get it set up in my workout room and I use it five days a week now. I love how many resistance levels there are, because both my husband and I can both get an intense workout on the same machine. I would love an option to connect my phone, but it is pretty great all around.
sally w.
We love that there are 24 unique workout modes to choose from; this guarantees that you won’t get bored of doing the same workouts all the time, and you can target different outcomes on different days. The display can keep track of your resistance level, rotations per minute, watt generations, speed, time, distance, and calories burned. Essentially, you have access to all the information you need about your workout right at your fingertips.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 64.5” x 23” x 55”
- Weight: 104.7 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 16
- Ramp Angles: None
- Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: None in Canada
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 24 unique workout modes to choose from
- Display can track speed, time, distance, calories burned, rotations per minute, watt generations, and resistance level
- Has a device holder and water bottle holder
Cons
Cons
- Warranty doesn’t apply in Canada
- No connectivity
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 advanced programmed elliptical machine is an ideal match for everyone who won’t mind the lack of connectivity. It has versatile workout programs preloaded into the machine and all the tracking capabilities you could ask for.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine Review
The Compact Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
While foldable elliptical machines can be a great solution for those who wish to save space, some people don’t have enough room for a full size elliptical at any time. If you fall into that category and you need a compact machine to work out on, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 elliptical cardio climber cross trainer machine is for you.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine
This cross trainer by Sunny Health & Fitness has one of the more unique designs for elliptical machines. Rather than the long design for a standard elliptical, this compact model functions more as a fluid climbing machine, combining the benefits of a stepper with the low-impact motion of an elliptical. Its compact design guarantees that it can fit into any household, no matter how limited in space it may be.
Weighing in at just under 70 lbs, this model is perfect for people who want to move it around. The lighter build design does lower the weight capacity to only 220 lbs, but this can still accommodate a significant percentage of the population. Eight resistance levels don’t offer a lot of versatility, so it will be better suited to lower-intensity, beginner-level workouts. The lack of incline is also a limitation to be aware of.
This machine caught my interest as soon as I first set eyes on it. It is unlike any other elliptical I’ve ever tried, and it is one of my favorite ways to exercise now. It has helped me build up my endurance the past couple of months, and my muscle tone has definitely improved as well. I would like it better if I could keep upping the resistance, but it’s a great beginner machine.
erica f.
The device holder and water bottle holder allow you to keep your needed items close by while working out, and the wheels make transportation even easier that you’d expect. The display can track all of your important workout stats: time, speed, distance, and calories burned. The lack of customizability and workout versatility may deter some shoppers from purchasing this model, but it will be an easy decision for anyone looking for a compact model.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 23” x 42” x 60.5”
- Weight: 69.3 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Ramp Angles: None
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: None in Canada
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Has a device holder and water bottle holder
- Fluid climbing motion is quite unique to this model
- Can track time, speed, distance, and calories burned
- Has wheels to easily move the unit around
Cons
Cons
- Not a lot of customizability
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 Elliptical Cardio Climber Cross Trainer Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911 elliptical cardio climber cross trainer machine is the best choice for people looking for a unique way to train cardio and tone up. It has a unique method of operation that is incredibly low impact, and doesn’t require much floor space.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying an Elliptical Machine
How Is an Elliptical Machine Better Than a Treadmill?
Elliptical machines are better than treadmills in a number of ways. First of all, the way they operate offers a lower-impact experience than walking or running on a moving belt. Instead, you place your feet in platforms so there is never any rhythmic jolting. This lessens the impact on your knees, ankles, and hips. Elliptical machines can also allow you to work your entire body simultaneously, unlike a treadmill that cannot work your upper body. Certain elliptical machines also offer more customizability than treadmills since you can adjust the resistance and incline to adapt to your evolving fitness level and physical goals.
What Are the Fitness Benefits of an Elliptical Machine?
One of the main fitness benefits of an elliptical machine is that you can work many muscle groups at once, and with different movements, you can target every major muscle group in your body. Working in a forward motion will target your quads, and moving in a backwards motion will target your hamstrings and calves. If you use the moving handlebars, you can work your upper body as well, and if you avoid using the handlebars, you can activate your core. Elliptical machines are also a great cardio exercise all year round. Elliptical machines are also a safe way to retrain after an injury.
Are Elliptical Machines Safe to Use?
Elliptical machines are very safe to use. As long as you adhere to the weight limit and follow the guidelines, you shouldn’t have any risk of injury. If you are new to exercising with a treadmill, it is best to start slowly and work your way up to harder resistance levels or a steeper incline in order to avoid straining your muscles.
How to Properly Choose Your Elliptical Machine
- Price.
Elliptical machines have an incredibly diverse price range. The most affordable model is as low as $90, and while machines in this price range will be fairly simple and will likely have lower weight capacities, they can still offer a great workout all year round. While most elliptical machines will fall somewhere between $500 and $1500, there are models that approach $2500. The most expensive models will almost always great incline and resistance levels, Bluetooth and/or WiFi connectivity, a great weight capacity, and full-service displays.
- Size.
Since not everyone will have a full gym in their home, the size of the elliptical machine will matter to most people. some elliptical machines are quite long and will require a lot of floor space, but others are quite compact and are better suited to smaller rooms. Some will even fold vertically when not in use to have a smaller profile, and many models have wheels on one side to allow you to move them around easily.
- Resistance Levels.
Resistance on an elliptical machine isn’t quite a given, but it is a very common feature. Some models can have as few as 8 resistance levels, others can have as many as 25. More levels will allow you to work gradually towards high resistance and really adapt to your fitness level. However, these models will typically be more expensive.
- Ramp Angles.
Not every elliptical machine will adjust at an incline, but many do. This allows you to experience a more intense workout and to target different muscle groups. Most elliptical machines that do offer the incline function have an angle range of 0 to 10 degrees. They should have quick ramp buttons to change the incline very easily mid workout, so you can focus on what you’re doing.
- Tracking Capabilities.
Nearly every single elliptical machine will track the same basic things: calories burned, distance travelled, and time. Different elliptical machines can have additional tracking capabilities, such as watts generated, revolutions per minute, fat burned, workout components like incline and resistance, and more. Whatever you’re looking to track during your workouts, there is an elliptical machine that offers it.
- Workout Programs.
Many elliptical machines will have some workout programs preloaded for you to make the most of each workout session. Some will only have a small selection of various programs, but others will have more than twenty for you to choose from. they can target certain muscle groups, focus on cardio, and vary by intensity and experience level. You won’t find these presets on every elliptical machine, but they are quite common.
- Connectivity.
Some elliptical machines offer you the option of connecting to a smart device using Bluetooth. These machines will have speakers that allow you to play your music or a video while you enjoy your workout. It is also possible that they will have a charging port to keep your devices powered during use. Some elliptical machines will offer WiFi connectivity as well, to let you access online materials or fitness subscriptions with the onboard display screen.
- Weight Capacity.
The weight capacity of an elliptical machine can vary between 220 lbs and over 300 lbs. While most people will be able to use any elliptical machine they choose to, it is important to be aware of this restriction and to adhere to it if you are over the weight capacity. It is important for your safety as well as the proper operation of the machine.
- Warranty.
Warranty coverage on elliptical machines can vary. Some models won’t have any warranty coverage in Canada, but others can have various coverage plans. The most common coverage is 10 years on the frame and 2 years for parts. There is often one year of labor included as well. Warranty coverage isn’t necessary of course, but for the price of some machines, it is certainly a benefit.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of elliptical machines allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
