Home Elliptical Trainer – More Than Just Cardio!

Turn your space into a fitness zone and see how an elliptical trainer can transform your health and fitness beyond just cardio workouts.

Why choose an elliptical trainer for home workouts?

Home elliptical trainer is one of the best pieces of fitness equipment for a full-body workout.
It provides low-impact cardio while strengthening muscles across your body without stressing your joints.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, an elliptical machine can help you reach your fitness goals while also enhancing balance and coordination.

Types of elliptical trainers

Choosing the right elliptical for your home starts with understanding the various types available on the market:

• Front-drive elliptical

Ideal for smooth motion, front-drive ellipticals often have incline settings that target lower body muscles, like glutes and hamstrings.
However, due to their fixed stride length, these may not be ideal for taller users.

• Center-drive elliptical

Center-drive ellipticals offer adjustable stride lengths, making them suitable for users of different heights and sizes.
The natural, centered movement is gentle on the joints while effectively engaging leg muscles.

• Rear-drive elliptical

If you’re looking for a machine that mimics running, rear-drive ellipticals create a “bouncing” motion that feels natural.
These typically feature adjustable stride lengths, making them versatile for most users.

Best home elliptical models

Here’s a selection of top-rated elliptical trainers for home use, designed to meet diverse needs and fitness levels:

1. NordicTrack FS10i (ad)

• Front-drive design with a smooth, quiet operation
• 30-day iFIT membership included for interactive, trainer-led workouts
• 10-inch HD touchscreen display
• 20 resistance levels and 10% incline for challenging workouts
• Oversized, cushioned pedals for comfort
• Dual-grip, adjustable handlebars

2. NordicTrack FS14i (ad)

• Center-drive design with adjustable stride length (12-32 inches)
• Allows you to switch between elliptical, stepper, and treadmill motions
• 14-inch HD touchscreen with access to iFIT interactive training
• 26 resistance levels and 20% incline
• Oversized, cushioned pedals
• Dual-grip, adjustable handlebars

3. Bowflex Max Trainer M8 (ad)

• Unique design combines an elliptical and stair stepper
• Compact footprint, great for small spaces
• 16 resistance levels and adaptive workout programming
• Includes a 7-inch LCD display with Bluetooth connectivity
• Grip-based heart rate monitoring
• Quiet magnetic resistance system

4. Sole Fitness E95 (ad)

• Rear-drive design with a smooth, natural elliptical motion
• 10 preset workout programs and 20 resistance levels
• Large 9-inch LCD display with integrated speakers
• Adjustable, oversized foot pedals
• Includes a chest strap for wireless heart rate monitoring
• Durable steel frame with a 375-lb weight capacity

5. ProForm HIIT H14 (ad)

• Front-drive elliptical optimized for high-intensity interval training
• 14-inch HD touchscreen with access to iFIT interactive training
• 24 resistance levels and up to 20% incline
• Oversized, cushioned pedals and multi-grip handlebars
• Integrated tablet holder and dual speakers
• Quiet, smooth magnetic resistance system

6. NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 (ad)

• Premium front-drive elliptical with a 32-inch stride length
• 14-inch HD touchscreen with iFIT membership
• 26 resistance levels and 20% motorized incline
• Oversized, cushioned pedals and multi-grip handlebars
• Dual AutoBreeze workout fans to keep you cool
• Integrated tablet holder and dual speakers

7. Horizon EX-59 (ad)

• Affordable, compact rear-drive elliptical
• 10 resistance levels and a 20-inch stride length
• 5.5-inch LCD display with integrated speakers
• Grip-based heart rate monitoring
• Transport wheels for easy mobility
• Quiet magnetic resistance system

8. Cubii Go (ad)

• Compact, under-desk elliptical for low-impact exercise
• Lightweight and portable design with wheels
• 8 resistance levels and a low-impact stride
• Tracks metrics like stride count, distance, and calories
• Bluetooth connectivity to sync with fitness apps
• Quiet operation for use at home or office

9. Efitment E005 (ad)

• Space-saving, compact front-drive elliptical
• 16 resistance levels and a 14-inch stride length
• 5.5-inch LCD display with basic workout metrics
• Adjustable non-slip foot pedals
• Transport wheels for easy relocation
• Quiet magnetic resistance system

10. Niceday CT11 (ad)

• Budget-friendly, no-frills rear-drive elliptical
• 16 resistance levels and a 400-lb weight capacity
• 5-inch LCD display with basic workout feedback
• Oversized, textured foot platforms
• Integrated tablet/phone holder
• Quiet belt-drive system

Hidden benefits of elliptical workouts

Elliptical training is more than just cardio!
In addition to burning calories and boosting cardiovascular health, an elliptical provides:

– Improved balance and coordination
Using an elliptical trainer engages your core and activates neuromuscular pathways, helping to enhance balance and coordination.

– Better posture and spinal alignment
Maintaining good posture during an elliptical workout strengthens core muscles, promoting better spinal alignment.

– Bone strength
Ellipticals support bone health through weight-bearing activity, which is beneficial for bone density and joint health.

Related: 16 Effective Strategies for Men’s Belly Fat Loss

Finding the right elliptical to meet your fitness goals

Whether your aim is cardio fitness, balance improvement, or joint health preservation, an elliptical can provide a versatile, effective workout for all fitness levels.

Download our free checklist: Choosing the Right Elliptical in 5 Minutes: Your Quick Guide

FAQs about elliptical trainers

What benefits can I expect from 30 minutes on the elliptical every day?

Doing 30 minutes of elliptical training each day can provide a great cardio workout and help you burn calories. It can also improve your posture, strengthen your bones, and boost your balance and coordination over time.

Is it okay to use the elliptical machine every single day?

Using an elliptical every day can be a great way to get in shape, but it’s important to listen to your body and allow for rest and recovery days as well. Aim for 3-5 elliptical workouts per week for best results.

Can the elliptical help me lose stubborn belly fat?

Elliptical trainers are an excellent tool for burning calories and fat, including stubborn belly fat. The low-impact, full-body nature of elliptical workouts can help you lose weight all over, including in the midsection.

How does using an elliptical regularly change your body?

Regular elliptical training can lead to a variety of positive changes in your body, such as improved muscle tone, better posture, stronger bones, and enhanced balance and coordination. Many people report feeling more fit, energized, and confident after incorporating the elliptical into their routine.

How long does it typically take to start seeing results from elliptical workouts?

You may start to notice some results, like increased endurance or weight loss, within a few weeks of consistent elliptical workouts. But for more significant changes, plan to stick with it for at least 4-6 weeks. Be patient and trust the process!

What’s the ideal pace or speed to use on the elliptical machine?

There’s no one-size-fits-all “best” pace for the elliptical. The ideal pace will depend on your fitness level, workout goals, and personal preferences. Start at a pace that feels challenging but sustainable, and gradually increase the intensity over time as you get stronger