Top 20 popular models of elliptical exercise equipment

An elliptical trainer is one of the most popular home cardio exercise equipment. It combines the benefits of a treadmill, stationary bike and stepper. Training on the elliptical trainer simulates walking on skis, while training involves not only leg muscles but also upper body.

To do on the elliptical machine not only effective for weight loss and muscle strengthening, but also safe from the point of view of stress on the joints. Namely the training on the ellipsoid is shown working as rehabilitation after injuries. Your feet will not break away from the pedals, which makes the load’s low impact. Thus, the movement of the pedals is not a circle, and an ellipse trajectory a harmful impact on the joints is reduced significantly.

If you haven’t decided what cardio-training equipment to buy for training at home, be sure to read the article:

• All information about the bike
• All information about the elliptical trainer

How to choose an elliptical trainer

So you’ve decided to buy an elliptical trainer. What criteria should you consider when choosing a model? And that you need to pay attention to those who plans to buy a pear?

1. The kind of resistance

In the market of elliptical machines like elliptical trainers: magnetic and electromagnetic:

• Ellipsoids with magnetic resistance. Such simulators work due to the impact of the magnets on the flywheel, they are smooth running, quite comfortable and practical for training. Usually operate on batteries, because power is needed only for screen. Of the minuses – it is impossible to set up your own program, load regulation is carried out manually.
• Ellipsoids with electromagnetic resistance. Such simulators work by electronics, and this is their advantage. Electromagnetic ellipsoids is more modern and functional equipment with built-in training programs, excellent load regulation, a large number of settings. Such ellipsoids are working from the network and are more expensive (from 25.000 rubles).

If you have the financial ability, it is better to buy the electromagnetic ellipsoid. If you are not sure that your workout on the elliptical trainer will become a regular, you can buy a cheap magnetic trainer to the test.

2. Step length

Stride length is one of the most important settings that you should pay attention to when choosing an elliptical trainer. To measure the stride length necessary to plant the pedal to the maximum distance and measure the length from the beginning of one of the pedal until the beginning of the pedal. What is the length of step to choose?

Cheap trainers include stride length 30-35 cm And if you have a small height (up to 165 cm), the setting you will be quite comfortable to study. But if your height 170 cm and above to train on the elliptical trainer with a stride length of 30-35 cm will be uncomfortable and ineffective. In this case it is better to pay attention to a trainer with a stride length 40-45 cm

In some more expensive models of elliptical offers adjustable stride length. In our collection, for example, the model Proxima Veritas. This option is especially convenient if the trainer plan to engage several family members with different growth.

3. Rear or front-wheel drive

Depending on the location of the flywheel relative to the pedals are ellipsoids with the rear and front wheel drive. On the market exercise equipment, the most frequent rear-wheel drive models. They are cheaper, and the choice of models the most diverse. Design RWD ellipsoids are very convenient for exercise equipment skiing and running tilted forward corps.

Front-of ellipicity are later and improved design. Due to the close distance between the pedals your body will have an ergonomically correct position during class. Training on the ellipsoid with front-wheel drive is considered more safe for the joints. And for the tall people fit these models better. However, all else being equal , front-wheel drive models are more expensive rear-wheel drive ellipsoids.

4. The size of the flywheel

The flywheel is the main element of the simulator, through which there is continuous movement of the pedals of the ellipsoid. It is believed that the weight of the flywheel is one of the most important criteria when choosing an elliptical trainer. It is believed that the greater weight of the flywheel, the smoother and safer the stress on the joints. Lightweight flywheel creates a slight slowing at the upper point of movement, so you will need to exert extra effort that can be harmful to joints. Therefore, the recommended minimum weight of flywheel of 7 kg.

But to focus only on the size of the flywheel makes no sense, too biased criterion. To evaluate its functionality only in conjunction with General dynamics and all elements of the node movement that for the average user is unrealistic.

5. Pulse sensors

The presence of heart rate sensors is also a very important characteristic that people should pay attention when choosing the elliptical trainer. Usually the heart rate sensors are located on handles of a training apparatus. Holding onto the handles of the ellipsoid during training, you will know the size of the pulse, and thus be able to train in the area of weight loss. However, such data will not be perfectly accurate, and inexpensive models the error can be quite serious.

So a good alternative would be the presence of additional functions in the simulator: the ability to connect wireless cardiopathic. In this case, the sensor worn on the body, and the heart rate data will be displayed on the display of the simulator. Such pulse will be much more accurate and correct. In some models the transmitter even comes with a simulator (although it is very inexpensive and can be safely purchased separately).

On inexpensive models of ellipsoids sensor no pulse, and there is no way to connect a wireless cardiopathic. In this case, you can purchase a separate device: the chest heart rate monitor that will record heart rate and calorie consumption and send the value to a smartphone or wristwatch. It is useful not only during the sessions on the elliptical trainer, but also for any cardio workouts.

6. Built-in programs

Almost all electromagnetic simulators have built-in programs that will help you to do diversely and effectively. Workout according to a preset program greatly simplifies the life of the student. You will be asked ready options (by time, by distance, by level of exertion), which you should follow during the classes. In addition, most simulators offers the opportunity to keep some of their own programs (user programs), so you will be able to experiment with the load.

Different models offer different amounts of built-in programs. Very useful if the simulator is also configured heart rate programs. In this case, the equipment will conform to your individual heart rate and make your training as beneficial to fat burning and strengthening the heart muscle.

In practice, many prefer to train alone, even using the built-in programs simulators. However, it is very handy and useful features that will help you engage more effectively.

7. Display

Another option which is worth paying attention when choosing an elliptical trainer, it displays the readings on the display. Now, even in the most simple ellipsoid models there is a screen where shows current information about training. As a rule, the main parameters recorded distance traveled, calories burned, speed, pulse.

No less important parameter is intuitive. Most of the settings and menus available in English. With the obvious features will be easy to understand without knowledge of the language, but when setting up training programs can be difficult. Therefore, it is important that the display interface was intuitive. One of the added benefits of a specific model will be the color display.

8. Dimensions

Because you get the ellipsoid to practice at home, then the important parameters also include the dimensions of the simulator. First and foremost is the weight of the ellipsoid. On the one hand, if the equipment is not heavy (less than 35 kg), it will be easy to rearrange or move. But on the other hand, it can be sufficiently stable during the work or even shaky. Heavier equipment is impractical for transportation, but they appear to be more reliable and durable.

Be sure to consider where you will put in the room the elliptical machine. In the case of acquisition of electromagnetic ellipsoid should be close to the outlet. If necessary, measure the length and width of free space so new equipment fits in perfectly with your interior.

9. Maximum weight

Another important parameter that you should look for when choosing an elliptical trainer, is the maximum weight training. Usually the characteristics is a number in the range of 100-150 kg.

It is better not to buy the simulator “butt” on the maximum allowable weight. For example, if your weight is 110 kg, it is not necessary to buy the simulator, where in the specifications is a limit up to 110 kg. Leave a margin of at least 15-20 kg.

10. Additional features

What useful additional functions of the simulator you should pay attention:

• connectivity wireless cardiopathic
• a signal of excess load
• the change in the tilt angle of platforms
• the adjustment buttons on handles
• bottle holder
• stand for book or tablet
• plug mp3
• wheels for easy transport
• expansion joints in the floor
• the ability to fold the ellipsoid

Selection of magnetic ellipsoids

If you are willing to spend >25.000 rubles for the purchase of the ellipsoid, then stop your choice on machines with magnetic resistance. Among them are very high quality models at very affordable prices. Additional convenience-type magnetic ellipsoids is to work from batteries and not from the network.

We offer you a selection of the best magnetic ellipsoids, which are popular with students and have positive reviews.

1. Elliptical trainer Sport Elite SE-304

One of the highest quality elliptical machines in its price range. For your home, it is quite convenient, though does not involve ready-built programs. On the display of the ellipsoid displays all the necessary information: speed, distance, calories burned. There are 8 levels of load. The trainer is compact and light enough weight, but it reduces its stability. Also from minuses it is important to note that this is more a female version of the ellipsoid due to the small step length.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 30 cm
• flywheel 6 kg
• user weight up to 110 kg
• LxWxH: 156x65x108 cm, weight 27.6 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

2. Elliptical trainer Body Sculpture BE-1720

This model is elliptical, the characteristics are very similar to the previous one. Body Sculpture is also very compact and lightweight machine. The display shows speed, calories, distance, pulse. You can adjust the level of the load. For its price range has a fairly smooth and quiet operation. The cons are the same: due to the light weight is not very stable and has a small step length.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 30 cm
• the flywheel is 4 kg
• user weight up to 100 kg
• LxWxH: 97x61x158 cm, weight 26 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

3. Elliptical trainer Sport Elite SE-602

Excellent magnetic ellipsoid at a low price from Sport Elite (one of the most famous brands for the production of elliptical). This trainer will suit those looking for a high quality and a robust design. Buyers note reliability no moving parts and high-quality Assembly. The display shows the distance traveled, calorie consumption, current speed. Of the minuses again – the lack of built-in programs, and small stride length.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 31 cm
• the flywheel 7 kg
• user weight up to 100 kg
• LxWxH: 121x63x162 cm, weight 41 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

4. Elliptical trainer UnixFit SL 350

Another very popular model of the ellipsoid, for which mostly positive reviews. Buyers note convenient size, compact, with a maximum weight of 120 kg. involved in considering the low prices are rather stable, with build quality and silent pedals. This elliptical trainer is already the step length is bigger compared to previous models 35 see There’s a handy stand for the bottle. The trainer has 8 workout levels.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length of 35 cm
• flywheel 6 kg
• user weight up to 120 kg
• LxWxH: 123x62x160 cm weight 29.8 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

5. Elliptical trainer Oxygen Tornado II EL

Oxygen is one of the most trusted brands for the production of elliptical. The Tornado model is popular due to the quality material and excellent build. Trainer is lightweight and compact, it is quite stable, sturdy and not shaky. Customers also noted the quietness, classic design, reliability design. The display shows distance, pulse, calories and speed.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 34 cm
• the flywheel 7 kg
• user weight up to 120 kg
• LxWxH: 119x62x160 cm, weight 33 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement, a signal of excess load

6. Elliptical trainer Body Sculpture BE-6600HKG

This is another ellipsoid, the manufacturer Body Sculpture. In contrast to the more inexpensive models that we have mentioned above, there is increased stride length for a more comfortable loading (35 cm), and add cardio sensors on the handlebars that will allow to calculate the individual indicators of heart rate and calorie consumption. Buyers note the convenient size of the machine and good build quality. Some users complain of the creaking of the pedals during training.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length of 35 cm
• the flywheel 7 kg
• user weight up to 120 kg
• LxWxH: 118x54x146 cm, weight 34 kg
• without built-in programs
• features: heart rate measurement

7. Elliptical trainer Sport Elite SE-954D

This elliptical cross trainer – front wheel drive, which is an advantage. In addition, he has a good stride length – 41 cm Is one of the best models in its price range. Has a nice design, robust construction and high quality Assembly. Buyers cited lack of noise, smooth running and ease of control loads. There are cardiopatici on the steering wheel, which work relatively correctly. Weight trainer heavy, so quite stable. There stand for book or tablet.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 41 cm
• the flywheel 7 kg
• user weight up to 130 kg
• LxWxH: 157x66x157 cm, weight 53 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

8. Elliptical trainer Alabama Oxygen

Another popular model of the ellipsoid from Oxygen. Buyers note quality materials, very nice appearance, smooth running and quiet operation of the pedals. On the wheel there is cardiopatici. Withstand the weight of working in up to 140 kg. Of the cons model, a small step length, at the price offered you can buy equipment with bonLisa the step length from another manufacturer. There are 8 levels of resistance, but firmware no.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 33 cm
• user weight up to 140 kg
• LxWxH: 122x67x166 cm, weight 44 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

9. Elliptical trainer Hasttings FS300 Aero

The ellipsoid model at the same price is usedongreater step length – 39 see Also in this model it is possible to change the angle of the platforms that helps to adjust the exerciser to fit your settings. Also have cardiopathic on the steering wheel, 8 different loads. Users have reported non-slip pedals, solid and reliable design, the smoothness. There are several built-in programs including fitness test to determine the level of fitness. Also has a built-in mp3 for listening to music.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 39 cm
• the flywheel 22 kg
• user weight up to 125 kg
• LxWxH: 130x62x160 cm, weight 44.7 kg
• built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement, the change in the tilt angle of platforms

10. Elliptical trainer UnixFit SL 400X

Another trainer with a very cute design and good length of stride. Good value and quality. There are all standard functions, including display of all important data on the display, cardiopatici on the steering wheel and 8 load levels. The model provides a book holder or tablet stand for the bottle. Buyers say the strength of the design, and silent operation.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 41 cm
• the flywheel 10 kg
• user weight up to 140 kg
• LxWxH: 152x67x165 cm, weight 42.3 kg
• without built-in programs
• functionality: battery life, heart rate measurement

Electromagnetic ellipsoids

Electromagnetic ellipsoids are certainly more functional. You can choose a ready-made program from proposed (including heart rate) or try to set up your own program. Please note that this type of ellipsoids running on the network.

We offer you a selection of the best electromagnetic elliptical machines, which are popular with students and have positive reviews.

1. Elliptical trainer Fitness Carbon E304

This is one of the most popular models of electromagnetic ellipsoids in recent years – largely because of its affordable prices. In this model, the manufacturer’s Carbon Fitness offers 24 built-in programs, including time, distance, and program a constant heart rate. 8 load levels will help you to choose an optimal training intensity. The only negative is a small step length, but the simulator is very compact and lightweight. There are cardiopathic on the steering wheel. The display shows distance, calories burned, speed, speed.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 31 cm
• flywheel 6 kg
• user weight up to 130 kg
• LxWxH: 141x65x165 cm, weight 37 kg
• built-in programs: 13
• features: heart rate measurement, the change of step length

2. Elliptical trainer Body Sculpture BE-6790G

A very good elliptical machine for its price, has 21 built-in program: time, distance, heart rate programs, a fitness assessment. You can add your own program. Step length is very small – 36 cm, so the load may not be enough. The display shows calories burned, current speed, pulse. There stand for book or tablet. The trainer is quite light and compact in size. Overall feedback on the quality of construction is positive.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 36 cm
• the flywheel 8.2 kg
• user weight up to 120 kg
• LxWxH: 140x66x154 cm, weight 33 kg
• built-in programs: 21
• features: heart rate measurement

3. Elliptical trainer FAMILY VR40

This elliptical trainer also has a small step length is 36 cm, so for tall people to engage with him will be uncomfortable. But with an average weight this model of the ellipsoid will be quite a good purchase. Users report high-quality Assembly, reliable design, easy and intuitive interface, and compact size. On the wheel there is cardiopatici, 31 program built in, including 5 heart rate controlled programs.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 36 cm
• the flywheel of 18 kg
• user weight up to 130 kg
• LxWxH: 130x67x159 cm, weight 42.8 kg
• built-in programs: 31
• functionality: the pulse, changing the angle of the platforms

4. Elliptical trainer SVENSSON BODY LABS ComfortLine ESA

One of the most popular models of trainers on the market with good performance and positive feedback. At very affordable price offers a rugged build, smooth soft stroke and adequate step length – 42 cm colour Display, offers 21 ready program, including custom and heart rate. You can not call the trainer is completely silent, some users also complain of a squeak.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 42 cm
• user weight up to 130 kg
• LxWxH: 120x56x153 cm, weight 38 kg
• built-in programs: 21
• features: heart rate measurement, a signal of excess load

5. Elliptical trainer UnixFit MV 420E

Good electromagnetic simulator of an average price category. Users note quality, smooth running and compact size. Among the reviews for the model no complaints about creaking noise and vibration. Assumes 24 load levels and 24 workout programs (including 2 heart rate), so the intensity is adjustable. There is the possibility of programming their workouts. Holds up to 150 lbs. There is a stand for books or a tablet and stand for bottles.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• step length 43 cm
• the flywheel 13 kg
• user weight up to 150 kg
• LxWxH: 150x66x153 cm, weight 53 kg
• built-in programs: 24
• features: heart rate measurement

6. Elliptical trainer SPIRIT SE205

This front-drive elliptical has many positive reviews. Users report quiet, smooth running pedals, reliable Assembly. There is a possibility of changing the angle of the platforms under its parameters. Inferior to the previous model in the step length and the maximum weight of the user. Assumes 24 load levels and 23 workout programs (4 of which heart rate controlled programs), so the exercise intensity is adjustable. There are audio input and the ability to connect wireless cardiopathic.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 41 cm
• user weight up to 120 kg
• LxWxH: 135x50x160 cm, weight 47 kg
• built-in programs: 23
• features: heart rate measurement, a signal of excess load, the change in the tilt angle of platforms

7. An elliptical machine Fit Clear CrossPower CX 300

Front-wheel drive trainer with good length of step, so it will suit both high and low people. Buyers note smooth and quiet running, stable position, and the reliability of the design reviews are generally positive. More than 40 programs, including 5 heart rate controlled programs. It is possible to connect a wireless cardiopathic. Among the shortcomings: a rather cumbersome structure, and inaccurate calorie and pulse.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 45 cm
• user weight up to 135 kg
• LxWxH: 165x67x168 cm, weight 46 kg
• built-in programs: 40
• features: heart rate measurement

8. Elliptical trainer AMMITY Aero AE 401

This machine is praised for beautiful design, quality construction, quiet operation, a comfortable distance between the pedals. In addition, the ellipsoid 76 built-ready programs, including 5 heart rate controlled programs and 16 user. However, the step length for this price could do and more. It is possible to connect a wireless cardiopathic and stand for book or tablet. The simulator is quite heavy, but steady and reliable.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 40 cm
• the flywheel 9.2 kg
• user weight up to 150 kg
• LxWxH: 164x64x184 cm, weight 59 kg
• built-in programs: 76
• features: heart rate measurement

9. Elliptical trainer Oxygen EX-35

Front-drive elliptical machine, one of the most popular models on the market. Buyers note smooth and almost silent operation of the pedals, high-quality materials. Also in this model of ellipsoid you will enjoy 19 different programs (including 4 heart rate controlled programs), the intuitive display, the smooth transfer of loads. Of the minuses is worth noting the incorrect display of heart rate and calories burned, as well as the lack of clear instructions with a description of the programs. Some buyers complain of creaking structures during training

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 40 cm
• the flywheel 10 kg
• user weight up to 150 kg
• LxWxH: 169x64x165 cm, weight 55 kg
• built-in programs: 19
• features: heart rate measurement

10. Elliptical trainer Sport Elite SE-E970G

Front-wheel cross trainer with large stride length. Users report a smooth ride, quality build and good stability of the simulator. This model of elliptical trainer offers not such a large number of programs – 13, including 3 heart rate controlled programs and 4 custom. There are 16 levels of resistance. Cute design and good choice on the parameter price-quality. There is a bookend.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 51 cm
• the flywheel 11 kg
• user weight up to 150 kg
• LxWxH: 152x65x169 cm, weight 74 kg
• built-in programs: 13
• features: heart rate measurement

11. Elliptical trainer Proxima Veritas

One of the best simulators in its price range. Buyers note uniform load without jerks and smooth running, so this ellipsoid is safe for the joints and suitable for rehabilitation. The trainer is heavy and stable with no hint of vacillation. It is also worth noting the keys on the arms and cover the pedals, which allows you to not slip even during high-intensity workouts. Stride length is adjustable, which means this elliptical trainer will be easy to engage all members of the family. There are 12 training programs, the interface is intuitive. Of the downsides users noted that the ellipsoid incorrectly calculates the pulse data during class. There is a book holder or tablet stand for the bottle.

Features:

• magnetic system load
• stride length 40 to 51 cm
• the flywheel is 24 kg
• user weight up to 135 kg
• LxWxH: 155x72x167 cm, weight 66 kg
• built-in programs: 12
• features: heart rate measurement, a signal of excess load, the change of step length

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