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10 Best Elliptical Machines
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Buying Guide for the Best Elliptical Machines
When shopping for an elliptical machine, it’s important to look for one that matches your fitness goals, available space, and comfort preferences. Ellipticals come in various sizes and offer different workout features, so knowing what's important to you—like low-impact exercise, calorie burning, or training for endurance—will help you make the right choice. It's crucial to try out different machines if possible to test your comfort level and to consider the features that will keep you motivated.Stride LengthStride length is the distance your feet move front to back while using the elliptical. This is important because a stride that's too short can feel awkward, and a stride that's too long might be uncomfortable or even strain your muscles. Most ellipticals offer stride lengths from about 14 to over 20 inches. Shorter stride lengths (under 16 inches) suit people who are shorter or want a compact machine, but can feel choppy for taller users. Medium stride lengths (16-18 inches) fit average users, while longer strides (over 18 inches) are often better for taller people or those wanting a more natural feel. When choosing, think about your height and how natural the walking or running motion feels while you use the machine.
Resistance LevelsResistance controls how hard you have to push to move the pedals, which affects the intensity of your workout. Machines usually offer multiple levels, sometimes up to 20 or more. Low resistance is great for beginners or when you want a light workout. Medium levels are good for steady training, and high resistance is important for advanced users or those looking for intense workouts. If you plan to improve your fitness or share the machine, having a broad range of resistance gives you flexibility.
Flywheel WeightThe flywheel is the part of the machine that creates smooth motion. A heavier flywheel often means a quieter and smoother ride as well as greater stability. Lighter flywheels (under 15 lbs) may make for a jerky feel, more suited to casual or occasional users. Medium weights (15-20 lbs) offer a balance for most home users, while heavier flywheels (over 20 lbs) are ideal for frequent or vigorous exercise. If you want a gym-like experience or plan to use your elliptical often, look for a heavier flywheel.
Incline AdjustmentIncline adjustment lets you change the slope of your workout, making it feel more like walking uphill, which recruits different muscle groups. Some machines don’t have this feature, while others offer manual or automatic incline changes. Fixed incline machines are simpler but less versatile, while adjustable incline adds variety and can make workouts more challenging. If you want varied, full-body workouts or want to target more than just your legs, pick a machine with adjustable incline.
Console and Display FeaturesThe console is where you control your workout settings and check your stats. Basic consoles show time, speed, and calories burned, while advanced ones offer heart rate monitoring, workout programs, and even media displays. Consider what information keeps you motivated—if you like variety, look for built-in programs, and if you want entertainment, consider machines with Bluetooth, speakers, or tablet holders. If you just want the basics, a simple display will do.
Foot Pedal DesignFoot pedals can vary in size, cushioning, and adjustability. Larger, cushioned pedals provide more comfort—especially on longer sessions—and pedals that adjust for angle or position can accommodate different stride styles. If comfort is a big priority or you plan to use the machine for long workouts, pay attention to pedal features when you try out machines.
Machine Size and PortabilityEllipticals can be bulky, so check the dimensions and consider if you have enough space. Some models have wheels for easy movement, or fold up for storage. If you have a smaller home gym or need to store the machine when not in use, portability features are useful. Always measure your space before buying and don’t forget ceiling height, especially for machines with an incline function.