12 best elliptical trainers for exercising at home

Elliptical trainer (ellipsoid) - a convenient and practical device for maintaining excellent physical shape at home. Suitable for both young and old people. With it you can perform cardio training, effectively reduce excess weight, rehabilitate the body after injuries and illnesses, just keep the body in good shape. A good trainer has an ergonomic design that provides the most balanced load on the whole body without overstraining the joints. The dimensions of the device are not the most compact, the cost can also exceed the average price of similar sports devices, but health is definitely not an article that is worth saving on. The best elliptical trainers and the rules for their selection are in our rating.

We dwelled on how to choose the right ellipsoid for yourself. We can immediately say that the simulator is selected according to the height, stride length and weight of the user. The simulator combines the functions of a treadmill, an exercise bike and a simulator of walking up the stairs. Magnetic models will be cheaper, suitable for beginners.

Which is the best elliptical trainer or treadmill? During classes, the thigh and calf muscle groups actively work on the first. The gluteal, pectoral muscles are loaded. The joints are subject to minimal stress. A large number of muscles also work on the treadmill, but the load on the spine and joints is much stronger, and the noise from your running in the apartment can slightly strain the neighbors.

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How Do I Pick a Good Elliptical Trainer?

Load system

• electromagnetic: the load level changes due to the operation of the electromagnets. Such simulators have a smooth ride and precise adjustment of operating modes, which ensures the greatest training efficiency;
• magnetic: the forces in them are regulated mechanically, by the approach and removal of magnets to the flywheel. Such simulators are simpler and less functional.

Ellipsoid selection table for height

Foldable design and dimensions of the simulator. The simulators can be compact and lightweight, but during operation they are less stable and sway perceptibly, which is not entirely safe. Heavy full-size models are not suitable for every apartment. A folding orbitrack may be the best option, but it should be borne in mind that such designs are not the most reliable.

Step length. Determined by the maximum difference in pedals, from the heel of the front foot to the toe of the rear foot. A good simulator has step length 50 cm. Models with this parameter in the range from 30 to 40 cm will be convenient for short users. Those whose height is above average will have to constantly "mince" on such a simulator, which will make the training ineffective.

Maximum user weight. Each ellipsoid model is designed for its maximum load. If you ignore this parameter, the machine may operate intermittently, quickly fail or cause injury. You need to select the model with the maximum carrying capacity 15-20 kg more than real weight user.

Flywheel weight (inertia). Affects the smoothness of the orbit track and its stability.With a low weight of the flywheel (up to 11 kg), the rotation of the pedals and the switching of loads occur with unpleasant jerks, because of which it is quite possible to even get injured if you cannot resist on the simulator. The best elliptical trainers have a heavy flywheel (over 11 kg) for a better workout quality and safety.

Orbitrek drive:

• front: quite large, but with it, the simulators usually adjust the optimal stride length, and therefore they are convenient for users of any height. Even tall people will feel comfortable on front-wheel-drive devices, without breaking down in the process of walking to a "mincing" step;
• rear: provides maximum natural movement during training, more compact, but the distance between the pedals in such simulators is usually large and inconvenient for people of short stature.

Best Ellipsoids with Electromagnetic Load

The most ergonomic and functional rating trainer. Balanced resistance, ideal trajectory and other biomechanical parameters ensure high safety and effectiveness of training. Foldable design for convenient and compact storage. A smart computer with a 5-inch display makes it easy to program and switch load levels, as well as monitor changes in the body as a result of exercise.

Features:

• the optimal step length for any height is 510 mm;
• the software package includes 40 different training modes;
• when assembled, overall, total length - 1690 mm.

Another reliable and versatile trainer for users of all skill levels. Works smoothly, smoothly and quietly. The program package is diverse - it includes 48 standard workouts and several user modes (including guest). The computer analyzes the user's fitness and monitors changes in the body after exercise.

Features:

• the increased step length of 540 mm makes the trainer especially comfortable for tall people;
• wide 7-inch display shows complete information about the training profile and the current state of the user;
• will help people with heavy weight lose weight - the maximum carrying capacity is 160 kg.

Powerful and solid, yet compact orbitrack model. The unique "Bio-Flow V-Type" vertical drive system provides an optimal trajectory of pedaling movement and even load on muscles, and also saves the floor space occupied by the machine. The training package contains 13 modes. There is a Body Fat fitness test to assess the physical parameters of the user.

Features:

• the step length of 520 mm corresponds to the parameters of premium class simulators;
• complete with transport rollers, floor uneven compensators;
• requires an electrical connection to operate.

Professional simulator for active home use. Heavy-duty flywheel (24 kg) for perfectly smooth running and load distribution. The design of the model allows you to adjust the step length from 400 to 510 mm. There is a step angle adjustment. Built-in programs - 12 (including user modes). Heart rate sensors are installed on both moving and stationary handles, in addition, you can connect a wireless cardio receiver.

Features:

• control keys on the handles and on the on-board computer display;
• there is a USB connector for connecting other devices;
• user weight limit - 135 kg.

Comfortable and a reliable, but at the same time compact orbitrack for all categories of users: from beginners to professionals. The unique "Flow Step" technology ensures the perfect smoothness of the exercise machine, silent pedal sliding. The software package contains 16 versatile preset modes. The display shows training information and heart rate recovery during exercise.

Features:

• step length of 450 mm - not the largest in the category, it can be uncomfortable for tall users;
• the keys for adjusting the load level are placed on the handles of the simulator.
• additional options: floor uneven compensators, USB connector, laptop stand, bottle holder.

Ergonomic oversized ellipse trainer for professional workouts at home. Provides an optimal distribution of loads on all muscle groups, minimally involving the joints. Electronic control of 40 workout programs, including custom, cardio and target modes. The display is ultra-modern and informative; its angle of inclination is adjustable for the convenience of users.

Features:

• universal step length - 510 mm, for comfortable work of users of any height;
• there are tests that assess physical fitness to track the effectiveness of classes;
• wireless chest strap included.

A convenient trainer for regular quality workouts. Ergonomic design combined with reliable drive, optimal stride length (460 mm) and internal tilt of the pedals evenly distribute the load on the body of the practitioner, while minimizing the use of joints and maximizing the load on the muscles. Thanks to the heavy flywheel, the system runs smoothly and reliably, without jerking or dead spots. Several packages contain more than 40 different training programs.

Features:

• the display is large, informative, with intuitive navigation through the functionality;
• built-in Bluetooth and the ability to control via smartphones and iOS and Android devices;
• included - wireless cardio receiver.

A good trainer for comfortable home workouts. It combines optimal functionality with compact dimensions.The software package provides 20 load modes, including several user and pulse-dependent ones. The heavy flywheel provides good headroom and smooth running. The simulator itself is designed for users weighing up to 140 kg.

Features:

• the optimal step length is 470 mm, suitable for practicing users of any height;
• there is Bluetooth for connecting gadgets and FitShow App for smartphones;
• power supply - from the network.

Rating of elliptical trainers with magnetic load

One of the leaders in its class in terms of price, quality and equipment ratio. Control - electronic, 24 load programs (14 preset, 4 user, 4 cardio). All workout parameters are displayed on a wide black and white display. The device works smoothly and silently. There are 2 modes of pedaling: forward and reverse - they help to shift the focus of muscle work if necessary. The pedals are slightly tilted inward for a more ergonomic posture during training.

Features:

• step length 420 mm, not the largest in the category, but comfortable enough for users of average height;
• complete with transport rollers, floor uneven compensators, keys for assembly;
• connection of MP3 devices is possible.

An effective ellipse trainer from the middle price segment. Among the advantages are compact dimensions, an informative display and good carrying capacity. The E200 can be operated by users weighing up to 130 kg. The flywheel is heavy, its inertial weight of 20 kg ensures good stability of the simulator and high smoothness of movements during training.

Features:

• 8 load levels, mechanically adjustable;
• good step length for the category - 410 mm;
• included - bottle holder and transport rollers;
• display without backlight, which can cause some inconvenience during evening and night workouts.

A practical and reliable orbitrack for regular home activities. Has an ergonomic frame that optimally distributes training loads (minimizing stress on the knees). The multifunction display shows all important parameters of the workout: time, distance, speed, calorie consumption, heart rate and revolutions per minute. Equipped with transport rollers and floor uneven compensators.

Features:

• step length 360 mm, not the most comfortable for tall users;
• high handles, comfortable, movable, pedals with non-slip bases;
• mechanical adjustment of the training load level (8 levels in total);
• the maximum permissible user weight is 120 kg.

A democratic trainer with the minimum required set of options for safe weight loss and maintaining good physical shape. The model has compact dimensions, is equipped with a monochrome display, touch-sensitive heart rate sensors, a tablet holder and extended pedals with an anti-slip coating. The maximum permissible user weight is 100 kg.

Features:

• the load level is adjusted mechanically, the adjustment knob with 8 positions is on the stand of the simulator;
• stride length - the smallest among the rating models - 310 mm, will complicate training for tall users;
• no compensators for uneven floors.

Video: How to choose the right elliptical trainer