Different Types of Elliptical Trainers 2023
There are different types of ellipticals in today’s world, and knowing the right one for you will help you to make an accurate decision. An elliptical machine is essential for a home gym, especially if you are limited by space. Read on to discover what this machine has in stock for you as well as various options you can go for.
WHY USE AN ELLIPTICAL MACHINE?
A workout routine is not complete without cardiovascular workouts, but many people don’t like running. If you happen to fall into this category of people, you can get an elliptical machine. It offers a low-impact option for your joints, and you can build both your upper and lower body simultaneously.
TYPES OF ELLIPTICAL
Like many workout machines, elliptical machines come with various options to choose from. They have different sizes and features so that you will be able to get one that will meet your expectations. One significant deviation among different types of elliptical machines has to do with styles as well as the flywheel’s location.
Table of Contents
Top 8 Best Different Types of Elliptical Trainers
| Standard Elliptical | • Stride Length: 18" • Display: 5.5" LCD • Resistance Levels: 16 | Check Price |
| Elliptical Cross | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: NA • Stride length: 18 inches | Check Price |
| Elliptical Gliders | • Weight capacity: 250 lbs • Dimensions : 43 x 28 x 53.75 inches • workout: 5 function | Check Price |
| Recumbent Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 350 lbs • Resistance Levels: 16 • Stride length: 15 inches | Check Price |
| Compact Ellipticals | • Weight capacity: NA • Resistance levels: Adjustable • Stride length: 7 inches | Check Price |
| Front Drive | • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Stride length: 20"-22" • Flywheel Weight: 27 lbs | Check Price |
| Center Drive Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 514 lbs • Stride length: 36 inches • Resistance levels: 20 | Check Price |
| Rear Drive | • Weight capacity: 338 lbs • Display: LED • Resistance levels: 20 | Check Price |
Here are the Top 8 Best Different Types of Elliptical Trainers
1. Standard Elliptical Trainers
Design
One of the types of cross trainers that many people are familiar with is the standard elliptical trainer. It usually comes with foot pedals so that you stand conveniently, and there is a handlebar that you will hold.
Features
It features an immovable handlebar, meaning that you can only use it for lower body workouts. When you move the pedals in a circular motion, you will work out lower parts of your body like glutes, quads, as well as hamstrings.
Advantages
This type of trainer is good for lower body workouts. Also, it is not expensive when compared to other types of ellipticals.
Size
After installation, it usually measures 70.1 inches in length, 28.1 inches in width, and 63.1 inches in height. That is why it is ideal for homes with limited space.
Example
An example of a standard elliptical trainer is the Schwinn 411 Machine. It is compactly designed so that it won’t take up too much space in your home. It has a stride length of 18 inches, meaning that it can accommodate almost everyone in your family.
Besides, you won’t mind its streamlined console, which helps you to monitor distance covered, time spent, speed, calories burnt, and heart rate. Its movable and fixed handlebars are padded with heart rate contact grips so that you will be able to get the most suitable outcome.
Also, this machine comes with 16 resistance levels so that you can challenge yourself for better results. There is a built-in media rack, making it possible for you to have great fun while working out. You will have access to a water bottle holder to help you stay hydrated during sessions.
What’s more, this machine is made from steel of high quality, and that is why no one can dispute its lastingness. You will get access to the Explore the World app so that you will be able to access amazing virtual courses. You will take 3 courses for free, and get more when you subscribe.
2. Elliptical Cross Trainers
Design
This type of machine comes with a moveable handlebar so that you can get a full-body workout. Many brands and models have digital consoles so that you won’t have issues monitoring your progress.
Features
This type of machine usually features adjustable resistance, seatback, handle positioning, and seat height so that you can get the most satisfactory outcome. In some models, there are transport wheels that make transportation a piece of cake.
Advantages
The moveable handles of this type of machine set it apart. This means that you can work out both the upper and lower parts of your body.
Size
Typically, their size is around 43 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 25 inches high. There are slight variations from one model to another.
Example
An example of an elliptical cross trainer is the Teeter FreeStep machine. It boasts of a naturally-reclined seated position so that your body will not experience fatigue or joint pain, without compromising a full cardio workout. You will like its extraordinary striding motion, which does not make too much noise during operations.
Also, its magnetic resistance is a plus, and you can change resistance levels with just a simple dial. Its dual power motion helps in giving your body a total workout. You can modify your exercise through the isolation of your arms or legs to achieve extra intensity.
With its unique battery-powered digital console, you can track your progress so as to be fired up for more action. A device stand is in place for your smart devices so that you can stay connected during sessions. A water bottle holder is in place to make water available to you during sessions.
Also, this machine comes with transport wheels, and that is why you can move it from one place to another without any stress. Its patented stride technology helps in protecting your knees when working out. It has the capacity of burning up to 17.4% more calories for every exercise you engage in.
3. Elliptical Gliders
Design
An elliptical glider looks very much like the standard elliptical but there is a little difference. Its pedals do not rotate in a circular motion but move up and down in a backward motion.
Features
The majority of the machines in this category come with handlebars so that you can have full-body workouts. Also, they are usually foldable, hence, you can store them compactly.
Advantages
Since leg and hip extension movements are possible with this type of machine, you have the opportunity of working out your legs perfectly. Also, you can add resistance by moving the pedals forward.
Size
This varies from one manufacturer to another. However, you should be able to get something around 43 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 53.75 inches high.
Example
An example of an elliptical glider is the Gazelle Edge by Tony Little. It is ideal for all fitness levels, whether you are a newbie or a professional. It promotes low-impact exercise, which will not cause serious joint pain. With its six to ten exceptional exercises, you will get the same benefits as running, walking, cross-country skiing, stretching, and aerobic dancing, but with low impact on your joints.
It comes with a computer that is easy to use so that you can monitor your speed, time, distance, and calories burnt. You will like its patented double-action split suspension, which makes it possible for you to engage in different types of movement.
It is made from high-quality steel, and that is why it has a maximum user capacity of 250 pounds. The foot platforms are very wide and do not skid, hence, you can be sure of perfect stability. The handlebars come with foam covering of high density so that you can be more comfortable at all times.
Also, this machine is easily foldable, hence, you can store it without using too much space. You can go from a slow walk to full run without stopping suddenly. Its quiet operation is a plus, meaning that you won’t have to disturb anybody when exercising.
4. Recumbent Elliptical
Design
This type of elliptical comes with a seat so that you can sit down while working out. Its pedaling motion is longer, and that is why it offers low-impact exercises, especially when compared with a recumbent exercise bike.
Features
On each side of the machine, there is a handle that you can move forward and backward. There are lots of convenient and adjustment options, hence, it is ideal for those with restricted mobility.
Advantages
These sitting-down elliptical machines offer the convenience of sitting down while working out. Also, you can use them to get a full body workout because of their handles.
Size
After installation, a typical machine measures 70.5 inches in length, 24.5 inches in width, and 60.5 inches in height. There can be a slight variation from one manufacturer to another.
Example
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer is an example of a recumbent elliptical. It boasts of 16 resistance levels so that you can challenge yourself to get a good result. It accommodates all users not minding their fitness levels. There is a large LCD window display, which helps you to keep track of your stats in real-time.
Also, its magnetic resistance is an outstanding feature, and that is why you can be sure of noiseless operation always. With its upper-body grips, you can work out both the upper and lower part of your body. It has a stride length of 15 inches, meaning that you have enough space to engage the legs’ muscles.
There is an adjustable cushioned seat that makes you comfortable when working out. Its inertia-enhanced flywheel is a plus, and that is why you can experience a smooth ride all the time. There is a water bottle holder that makes it possible for you to keep your water closeby.
This machine has transport wheels, hence, you won’t have issues moving it from one place to another. It is compactly designed so that it won’t take up too much space. With its maximum user weight capacity standing at 350 pounds, you can be certain of getting value for your money.
5. Compact Ellipticals
Design
They are specially designed to be foldable so that you can store them perfectly. Like the standard ellipticals, they can have a center, rear, or front-drive.
Features
They usually come with various resistance options so that you will be able to get the best result. Depending on the model you go for, you can see features like a power incline, touchscreen display, heart rate monitor, and so on.
Advantages
When compared to typical home ellipticals, they don’t consume too much floor space, and moving them from one place to another is a piece of cake. Even though they are small, they don’t compromise on giving you the best workouts.
Size
A typical machine measures 23.15 inches in length, 17.56 in breadth, and 10 inches in height. You should check the size of the product you want to buy before making a purchase because there can be slight variance.
Example
The Cubii JR1 comes with all the plush features that will certainly enhance your workouts. Its compactness is a plus, meaning that you can use it at home or in the office. It does not take up too much floor space, and that is why it is one of the most sought-after products in the market right now.
Also, you will like its smooth gliding motion, which guarantees optimum performance at all times. It has 8 resistance levels, meaning that you can work out at your own pace. Its quiet operation is a plus, hence, you can have a peaceful home when exercising.
This machine comes with an LCD display, making it possible for you to monitor your progress. You can keep track of your speed, distance covered, calories burnt, and so on. It is convenient to use and easy to maintain.
It is foldable so that you won’t have issues storing it or moving from one place to another. You won’t mind its lightweight design, which makes manipulation a piece of cake. If you want a machine that will not disappoint you during sessions, this is the right product to get.
6. Front Drive
Design
In this type of machine, the flywheel is located in the front. It is specially designed close to the ground so that you can work out using different positions.
Features
Most models come with heart rate monitors so that you will be able to stay in the comfort zone. You will find adjustable stride length as well as incline in some products.
Advantages
It offers workouts similar to climbing the stairs. With its compactness, you can easily store it or move it from one place to another.
Size
The length of some products is 64 inches while the width is 34 inches. The height is usually around 24 inches.
Example
The SOLE E95 comes with all the plush features for a successful fitness program. It boasts of adjustable stride length between 20 and 22 inches, meaning that you can be sure of a comfortable pace. Its incline is adjustable in 10 positions so that you can get the best result.
Also, the pedals are cushioned, making it possible for you to enjoy a comfortable ride at all times. It has a maximum user weight capacity of 400 pounds, hence, every member of your family can use it. You won’t mind its 10 preset programs, which help in adding varieties to your program.
There is a heart rate monitor that ensures that you stay in a safe zone while exercising. A chest strap is included in the package, and there is a fan that helps in cooling down your body.
Also, the flywheel weighs 27 pounds, meaning that you can rely on its stability. There is a holder for your water bottle so that you can stay hydrated during sessions. It is produced from materials of high quality, and that is why it is one of the most sought-after products in the market.
7. Center Drive Elliptical Trainers
Design
The flywheel is located in the center of this type of machine. They usually come with moving handlebars, which make upper body workout possible, in addition to lower body workout.
Features
They usually come with adjustable resistance levels for optimum performance. Also, you will find heart rate sensors on the handlebars of most machines, which guarantee safe sessions.
Advantages
Exercising on this type of machine is similar to the experience you will have with the cross-trainer. It is compact, and you can use it for full-body workouts.
Size
Popular dimensions include 71 inches in length, 68 inches in width, and 32 inches in height. There can be a slight variation from one product to another.
Example
The Precor AMT 835 is an ideal machine for all exercisers no matter their levels. You can adjust stride length between 0 and 36 inches so that you can be more flexible to achieve the best result.
It boasts of the Open Stride technology, which makes it possible for you to change stride height from 6.8 inches to 10 inches. There is the Stride Dial feature that lets you see changes in stride length in real-time so that you will be able to target muscle groups.
With 20 resistance levels, you can challenge yourself for optimum effectiveness. There are heart rate sensors on the handlebar, and you can use the telemetry function that requires a chest strap. Its double action guarantees both upper and lower body exercises.
It has a maximum user weight capacity of 514 pounds, hence, many people in your household can use it. If you want a machine that is durable and solid, you need to try the Precor AMT 835.
8. Rear Drive
Design
The rear-drive elliptical is the oldest option around. It is designed with a flywheel situated at the back.
Features
A lot of brands and models feature adjustable resistance levels to make your exercise more challenging. They usually have movable handlebars so that it will be possible for you to engage in upper body workouts.
Advantages
Since the flywheel is situated at the back, you can experience a longer stride so as to get the most satisfactory outcome. Also, it is compact, meaning that it will not take up too much space on the floor.
Size
Popular dimensions are 80 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 68 inches in height. You should check the size of the product you want to buy because there can be slight variations.
Example
The Precor EFX 835 is designed with cutting-edge Cross-ramp technology so that you can target certain muscle groups in your body. With its patented low-impact EFX motion, you can be sure of natural and smooth motion for convenient sessions.
You will like its ergonomic moving handlebars, which make the full-body workout a reality. It has 20 resistance levels, and that is why it is easier for you to take up various challenges. There are integrated transport wheels for convenient movement from one place to another.
The pedal rotation is reversible, hence, you can target various muscle groups without much stress. There is a LED display that enables you to track your progress so that you will be able to put in the extra effort.
Choose The Right Elliptical For Your Home GYM
An elliptical type machine is very popular for cardiovascular exercises. Training on an elliptical is like climbing stairs, running, and skiing, but you won’t feel too much impact on your joints. It is a machine that everyone can use, whether you are a beginner or a professional.
Hunting for Your Elliptical: Before starting your search, you need to consider your fitness goals as well as those of other people in your home that may use the machine. It is possible that you are not the only one that will use it, hence, you need to factor in others.
Research Online: It is a good idea to research online so that you will be able to find a product you like. You can discover top-rated brands via product reviews, rating websites, just to mention a few.
You can visit the websites of manufacturers as well as their social media pages to know how people accept them. In most cases, the best brands are the ones that produce commercial equipment that health clubs and gyms use.
Find Out Where To Purchase: As soon as you discover a machine that you like, you should decide on where to purchase it. The majority of these products are available online through shopping sites or manufacturers’ websites. Also, you can buy from retail stores, especially specialty fitness retailers.
Consider the Level of Service: You will certainly get the highest level of service from a specialty fitness retailer. However, if you buy online, you will pay less but you will need to carry out enough research to discover the right product.
Test the Equipment: If you are considering buying online, you should find a way to test the machine you want to buy. You can test through a gym, friend, hotel, or spa. Testing for five minutes is okay, and you should be able to feel it within this time.
Features To Look Out For: Different types of elliptical cross trainers have various features that make them be unique. Here are some of the things you should look out for.
Adjustable Incline: This is a vital feature to look for on an elliptical. When you adjust the incline, you will vary the focus on muscle groups so as to enhance flexibility and efficiency. It boosts motivation, reduces boredom, and adds flavor to the routine.
Adjustable Resistance: A good machine will various resistance levels, which you can adjust electronically. You need a machine that makes it possible for you to change resistance levels with ease so that you will be able to incorporate interval training sessions.
Smooth Elliptical Motion: The elliptical motion is similar to running and walking but with a low impact. You wouldn’t want a machine that will be bouncing during sessions. Hence, you should look for a product with a real elliptical movement pattern supporting both forward and backward movements.
Forward and Reverse Motions: A machine with both forward and backward movement will make it possible for you to try different challenges. Also, it will reduce your exposure to injuries associated with repetitive use.
Electronic Features: Electronic features like a monitor will help you to monitor your progress. You can monitor the distance covered, calories burnt, speed, time spent, and so on.
Heart Rate Monitor: You need to monitor your heart rate as you work out so as to be a safer side. There is a limit for everyone, and if you go beyond this limit, you may injure yourself. On the other hand, if you go too low, you may not be able to accomplish your goals.
A good machine will have heart rate control systems that enable you to stay within safe limits. You only need to input the heart rate of your desire, and you can be sure that the machine will act in response accordingly during sessions.
Preset and Custom Programs: A lot of people quit fitness programs because of many reasons, including boredom. Hence, you should look for a product with various programs so as to keep the fire burning.
Also, if you can lay your hands on a machine that enables you to customize programs in accordance with your needs, it will be easier for you to get the best result. That is why these features are very important in any elliptical machine.
Ease of Use: A good elliptical should be easy to use. It shouldn’t come with so many confusing buttons, which may frustrate your plans. It should be easy to start, and changing operation modes should be a piece of cake.
Variety: You need to be consistent for a long time if you really want to succeed with your workout program. That is why you need a machine that will add variety to your sessions so that you will be more challenged to go on. Changing these variables from time to time will add new dimensions to your program.
Safety Features: You should not forget to look out for safety features in the machine you want to buy. For example, a locking feature will stop the pedals from moving when not in use.
Maintenance: You should get a product that is easy to maintain so that you won’t have issues getting value for your money. Proper maintenance will make it last longer.
Warranty: Check out the warranty terms of the machine you want to buy. You should know the number of years of coverage as well as the components covered. This will help you to get value for your money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the different types of elliptical machines?
The different types of elliptical trainers include standard, gliders, and recumbent. Others are rear-drive, center drive, and front-drive.
What is an elliptical exercise machine?
An elliptical exercise machine is a vital device for a home gym. You can use it for cardio workouts and it has a low impact on your joints.
What are elliptical machines good for?
Elliptical machines are good for both upper and lower body workout. This is made possible by the handles on them, which makes total body workout a reality.
How to choose an elliptical?
You should read online reviews on different kinds of elliptical machines so that you will be able to discover an ideal product. Also, you need to compare features and prices before deciding on the machine to buy.
What does an elliptical look like?
Ellipticals come in different designs and shapes. By reading online reviews, you will be able to see the various designs and shapes available in the market right now.
Is Stride Length that Important?
Stride length is important because it determines the suitability of the elliptical for you. You should go for a machine with a stride length that can accommodate your pace.
Is Regular Maintenance Necessary?
Regular maintenance is necessary because it will enhance the lastingness of the machine. You should consult the user manual of the product you want to purchase so as to get its maintenance tips.
How Can I Change the Resistance?
Most machines come with a simple lever that you can use to change resistance. You should check your user manual to get additional information on how to change resistance.
Will elliptical reduce belly fat?
Since elliptical exercise promotes both upper and lower body workouts, you won’t have issues using the machine for reducing belly fat. However, you should get a high-quality product so that you will be able to get the most satisfactory result.
Summary
You now know the different types of ellipticals available in the market. We hope you will be able to make use of this information to get a product that won’t disappoint you when it matters most. Adding cardio to your fitness program will help you to get the best result, and using an elliptical will make the process easier.
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