10 Best Elliptical Trainers In 2021

Are you looking for an elliptical trainer? Are you finding it difficult to decide which elliptical trainer to choose? Today there are many trainers with different features on the market.

In this review, we not only review some of the best elliptical trainers today, but we also discuss in depth the factors you should consider when choosing your next elliptical trainer.

 

 

 

1.  Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Elliptical Trainer

This Sunny Health & Fitness trainer gives you a complete aerobic workout. You get the benefits of stretching, running, skiing, walking, and more. This elliptical trainer targets muscles in your arms and your legs. It enhances cardiorespiratory fitness. The abdominal muscles work as stabilizing muscles thereby improving your stability and endurance when you maintain an upright posture.

It features non-slip pedals which simulate a slow walk or work up to a full run while you keep a continuous motion capability. The elliptical trainer supports up to 220 lbs with a 45-inch stride length. It features an LCD monitor which gives count, total distance, calories, and time data.

This elliptical trainer features ergonomic handlebars which allow you to push and pull to increase momentum in your stride. Additionally, its adjustable abdominal cushion allows you to stride in comfort when you position the adjustable cushion in a position perfect for you. It can be stored anywhere thanks to its slim foldable design which allows you to fold it and the pedals to 1/2 the length.

 

 

 

 

      What We Like:

• Air Walk Trainer
• Total Body Workout
• Aerobic Training

 

 

 

 

2.  Body Rider Elliptical Trainer

The Body Rider Elliptical Trainer combines the features of two fitness machines into one. It has a pair of elliptical arms and foot pedals for upright elliptical use, as well as an adjustable seat that turns the machine into an exercise bike.

This dual feature of the Body Rider Elliptical Trainer allows users to vary their workouts depending on what they are hoping to achieve. The Body Rider Elliptical Trainer is constructed with a chain-driven fan wheel and high-momentum fan blades that run smoothly and quietly without impacting your joints like your ankles and knees.

This trainer tracks your workout and displays the results in measurements of speed, distance, time, and calories burned. It fits users of different heights and weights with its adjustable seat which can move vertically and horizontally. Additionally, it features an easily adjustable tension knob.

 

 

 

 

      What We Like:

• Tension Adjustment
• Adjustable Seat

 

 

 

 

3.  Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine

The Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine features 25 levels of resistance thereby giving you a wide range of workout options. This elliptical trainer features 29 workout programs to improve your strength, endurance, and weight loss goals.

Moreover, it syncs with the Schwinn Trainer App and other apps for fitness tracking using Bluetooth connectivity. You get to have access to 19 locations with 27 routes alongside people from around the world in real-time.

Additionally, it features a dual-track LCD display, media shelf, in-console speakers with an MP3 input port, USB media charging, and an adjustable fan.

 

 

 

 

      What We Like:

• 25 Levels of Resistance
• 29 Workout Programs

 

 

 

 

4.  Sunny Health & Fitness Advanced Programmed Elliptical Trainer

This elliptical trainer features 16 resistance levels for body workouts. It also has 24 training programs to help you attain your goals. As a result, this elliptical trainer provides the opportunity for customizing your fitness programs. You can tailor your workouts and train them how you want them.

This Sunny & Health elliptical trainer features floor stabilizers to keep your workouts stable. This trainer features electromagnetic resistance therefore, with the push of a button you can change the pace of your workout.

Using the upper body swing arms, you can get a total body workout. With the LCD display, you can get up-to-date measurements of speed, RPM, distance, odometer, calories, and more. It is easy to use and store with its transport wheels.

 

 

 

 

       What We Like:

• Full Motion Arms
• Performance Monitor
• Floor Stabilizers
• Pulse Sensors

 

 

 

 

5.  Bowflex Max Trainer Series

The Bowflex Max Trainer Series features 8 levels of resistance and with just the click of the dial, you can control the resistance. With the Bowflex Max Trainer Series, you benefit from the low-impact motion of the elliptical trainer as well as the calorie-burning power of the stepper. This trainer gives you the benefits of interval training in just 14 minutes. Its LCD display allows you to know your numbers and set goals.

 

 

 

 

      What We Like:

• 8 Levels of Resistance

 

 

 

 

6.  LEIKE X Elliptical Trainer

The LEIKE X Elliptical Trainer is a 2-in-1 as it can be used as an upright and a recumbent exercise bike. It features 10 levels of magnetic resistance. This elliptical trainer works in silence therefore your neighbors will not be disturbed if you live in an apartment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

       What We Like:

• 10 Level Magnetron Resistance
• 2-in-1 Frame
• Quiet Operation

 

 

 

 

7.  Sunny Health & Fitness Performance Elliptical Trainer

This 20″ Precision Path stride length has 8 levels of magnetic resistance to fine-tune your intensity level to meet your fitness goals. It features a unique climbing stride in which the extended vertical and horizontal stride length produces a fluid climbing motion to engage your entire body.

This Sunny & Health trainer also has an advanced monitor which tracks your workouts and gives the data measurements in real-time. It supports up to 220 lbs. With the floor stabilizers, you can balance and level your elliptical trainer.

 

 

 

 

        What We Like:

• Unique Climbing Stride
• 8 Levels of Magnetic Resistance
• Floor Stabilizers

 

 

 

 

8.  Nautilus Elliptical Series

The Nautilus Elliptical Series has 25 levels of resistance and 29 workout programs. You can monitor your workout progress with apps like MyFitnessPal, Explore the World, and more.

 

 

 

 

9.   Pooboo Elliptical Trainer

The Pooboo Elliptical Trainer features 8 levels of magnetic resistance to adjust the intensity of your workouts. With the help of the dual handlebars, this elliptical trainer can engage all of the muscles in your body for a complete workout.

You benefit from a smooth and quiet operation thanks to the precision balanced flywheel and belt drive system. Additionally, with anti-slip handlebars and footpads, you have ensured a safe, smooth, and stable workout. It supports up to 220 lbs.

Moreover, this elliptical trainer features a large LCD digital display that tracks your time, speed, distance, calories burned, scan, and pulse rate. It also features pulse pads located on the stationary handlebars to keep you aware of your status.

 

 

 

 

       What We Like:

• 8 Levels of Magnetic Resistance
• Anti-Slip Handlebars & Foot Pads
• Magnetic Control Flywheel

 

 

 

 

10.  FUNMILY Elliptical Machine

The FUNMILY Elliptical Machine has 8 levels of adjustable resistance which gives you the option to tailor your workouts to any level of intensity.

This elliptical trainer is designed with a dual handle. The outer handle works for the upper body while the inner handle is ideal for children. Moreover, this trainer ensures a smooth and quiet operation with its flywheel and V-belt drive. It is very suitable for home use and storage with its portable design of the front wheel and its adjustable rear support.

With its large LCD monitor, you can track your workouts with metrics such as speed, time, distance, calories burned, pulse rate, and scan.

 

 

 

 

       What We Like:

• Adjustable Magnetic Resistance
• 8 Levels Magnetic Resistance
• 16-inch Big Stride
• Heart Rate Sensor
• Multi-Functional Digital Monitor

 

 

 

 

What To Look For In An Elliptical Trainer?

1.  Elliptical Styles

When you are deciding which elliptical trainer to buy, you have to decide which style do you want. There are three styles, namely the center-drive, front-drive, and rear-drive.

The Center-drive provides a gentle workout. It is similar to a treadmill but instead of the track, you have pedals. Additionally, the center drive features a compact design but has a pedal in the back.

The front drive is the most affordable due to its basic design. It features a large wheel at the front. They also tend to make noise and vibrate.

The rear drive features a smaller wheel housing behind the pedals. Some rear-drive elliptical trainers have a suspended arm system and provide a smooth workout.

 

 

 

 

2.  Adjustable Incline

Another factor to consider when choosing an elliptical trainer is the adjustable incline. Having the ability to adjust the incline can add intensity to your workouts. It can be done manually while some machines have automatic adjustments.

 

 

 

 

3.  Adjustable Resistance

Most elliptical trainers today are designed with adjustable resistance. This is an important factor to consider when choosing your elliptical trainer as this feature gives you the option of tailoring your workouts to continuously increase the intensity and achieve your goals.

 

 

 

 

4.  Smooth Motion

This is important although it may not seem that way. You want a trainer which operates smoothly as well as quietly. There should be no awkwardness and you should be very comfortable.

 

 

 

 

5.  Stride Length

To be on the safe side, opt for a trainer with a stride of about 21 inches. Some elliptical trainers only offer a 14-inch stride. This would be short for an average-sized individual.

 

 

 

 

6.  Upper Body Comfort

The handgrip movement should be comfortable. There needs to be no issue with it. Arm handles give more intensity although they are not a necessity.

 

 

 

 

7.  Safety Features

Safety is very important when it comes to workouts. If you don’t prepare your body adequately before starting or winding down after you finish, injury is a possibility. Hence, elliptical trainers which provide warm-up and cool-down periods are very attractive.

An easy-to-read display will also be helpful to determine if you are doing enough to meet your goals. Choosing a maintenance-free elliptical trainer with a good warranty is a safe bet.

Some trainers feature a pin lock which prevents the pedals from moving while other trainers let you lock up the screen and operations. These are good safety features, especially you have kids.

 

 

 

 

8.  Water Bottle Holder

Most trainers come with this feature to make your workouts as comfortable as possible. They incorporate a water bottle holder and sometimes other ways you can store other items while you work out.

 

 

 

 

9.  Heart Rate Monitor

A heart rate monitor is a good feature to have on your trainer. You get data about your health as you work out. This is not a must-have but it is a good feature to have.

 

 

 

 

10.  Fitness Tracker apps

Technology is now part of almost every piece of equipment and gadget. A trainer with fitness tracker apps just makes it easier to track your numbers.

 

 

 

 

Types of Elliptical Trainers

1.  Center-Drive

Center-drive trainers feature a compact design. They are similar to a treadmill but have pedals. Center-drive trainers have the drive system located off to one side.

 

 

 

 

2.  Front-Drive

Front-drive features a basic design which makes them simple and affordable. It has the flywheel located in the front thereby causing the users to lean forward when using it. Front-drive trainers can be noisy and vibrate a bit.

 

 

 

 

3.  Rear-Drive Ellipticals

Rear-drive ellipticals have the wheel, yes, in the back behind the pedals. This results in a more elongated design. Other rear-drive ellipticals use a suspended arm system which results in a very smooth workout.

 

 

 

4.  Hybrid Elliptical Trainers

Hybrid elliptical trainers tend to combine multiple functions and usually improve the functionality of a stationary bike. Hybrids can be adjusted to move between modes thereby rearranging your seat and pedals.

 

 

 

 

Elliptical Trainer Accessories

1.  An Elliptical Mat

The elliptical mat goes under the base of the trainers and protects your floor, provides another layer of stability and it helps to drown out the noise and absorb vibrations.

 

 

 

 

2.  Reading Rack

Reading racks can be mounted on the trainer to get some of your reading done while you work out.

 

 

 

3.  Elliptical Care Kit

The care kit is to maintain your trainer. It usually has silicon spray and 3-in-1 oil.

 

 

 

 

4.  Heart Rate Monitor

Today most elliptical trainers are compatible with heart rate monitors. You can get heart rate readings and monitor yourself whenever you work out.

 

 

 

 

5.  TV Stand

You can catch up on movies while you work out with a TV stand.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bottom Line

Elliptical trainers have really come a long way. Many are designed as a complete gym that can work your entire body. We have reviewed some of the best elliptical trainers available today and also discussed the factors you have to take into consideration when choosing the trainer you need. Our recommendation for an elliptical trainer is the Bowflex Max Trainer Series.