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Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best elliptical for 2025: Low-impact, joint-friendly workouts at home
Ellipticals are second only to treadmills in popularity as home fitness equipment and for good reason. They're an excellent option for enjoying a low-impact, full-body workout that improves cardio while engaging multiple muscle groups. If you're in the market for a home machine, choosing one of the best ellipticals is a no-brainer. "Elliptical trainers are a great piece of [equipment] for those looking for a low-impact workout to improve their cardiovascular fitness and tone their legs and buttocks," Michael Betts, a director of TrainFitness, tells Yahoo Life. Add the handlebars into the mix, and you're engaging your upper body, allowing for a full-body workout that can help strengthen your arms while improving overall endurance. Ellipticals provide a well-rounded workout that also offers benefits like improved balance and coordination, notes Devin Trachman, an orthopedic physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central. Elliptical workouts are particularly valued for being easy on the lower body, making them a top choice for individuals seeking a low-impact workout. "It's a great option for people of all fitness levels, especially if you're looking to protect your knees and joints," says Thomas Altadonna, owner of Platinum Fitness. Concerned that low impact equals low effort? That's not the case. Small studies indicate that injured runners find elliptical training to be an excellent substitute for running, comparable to using a treadmill or stepper. It's clear that ellipticals offer a range of benefits for fitness enthusiasts of all levels. But how do you choose the best one for your needs? We consulted personal trainers and a physical therapist, researched the market and put a few of the most popular models to the test. Here's what we discovered. We are currently testing the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical and are sourcing additional machines to continue testing throughout 2025. This article will be updated periodically to reflect any new findings. Our previous No. 1 pick for best overall elliptical remains unchanged. Ellipticals vary widely in features and performance, so understanding your specific needs can help you find the right fit. Keep these factors in mind as you explore your options: Fitness goals and workout preferences: Elliptical machines vary greatly in their workout offerings. Some include simple, built-in programs, while others feature advanced, high-tech workouts or sync seamlessly with fitness apps. If you're planning to use your elliptical casually while watching TV, you might not need extra features. However, if you want a machine that delivers a workout class experience, it's worth investing in one with integrated programs. Keep in mind that these options often require a separate membership for access to premium content. Stride length and comfort: A stride length of about 20 inches feels comfortable for most people, according to Thomas. "If the stride is too short, you might feel cramped or restricted, like you're not moving enough. If it's too long, it could strain your hips or feel awkward," he explains. To ensure the best fit, consider testing a machine at your local gym to find what feels most natural for your body. Also, keep in mind that ellipticals that double as steppers (like the Bowflex Max Trainer SE) frequently have shorter strides due to the more vertical — rather than horizontal — elliptical movement. Budget and value: Ellipticals range widely in price, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. However, a higher price tag doesn't always mean a better machine. Focus on the features you'll actually use before committing to a more expensive option. If advanced tech and extra features aren't important to you, there's no reason to spend more on technical bells and whistles. Space in the home: Ellipticals tend to take up more space than other home fitness equipment, so it's essential to ensure you have enough room for one. Measure the dimensions of the machine and compare them with your available space, factoring in extra room for getting on and off easily and moving around it comfortably. Connectivity/technology: Some ellipticals offer Bluetooth connectivity to stream music or workouts, although this isn't a given. Many also allow you to sync up your workout to an app. As with many exercise machines, the more high-tech the equipment, the higher the price tag tends to be, so consider what you'll actually use before purchasing a machine. Moving or fixed handlebars: Ellipticals often come with either moving handlebars, fixed handlebars or both. Moving handlebars add an upper-body component to your workout. According to Trachman, "The additional movement of arms during an elliptical workout increases calorie burn." The more muscles you engage during a workout, the more calories you burn. For versatility, many machines allow you to switch between moving and fixed handlebars. "If you are targeting a full-body workout, it is best to incorporate arms moving," Trachman says. "If you want to isolate core control and activation, try incorporating some fixed arm intervals into your workout." By alternating between the two, you can tailor your elliptical sessions to suit your fitness goals and keep your workouts dynamic. To determine the best elliptical machines, the Yahoo Life team conducted an in-depth analysis of the market, identifying the most popular and highly rated options. From there, we tested six ellipticals over three months, evaluating key features such as ease of assembly, workout programs, sturdiness, adjustability, smoothness, resistance levels and material quality. We also consulted with three fitness experts — two personal trainers and a physical therapist — to gather insights on the most important features to consider in a high-quality elliptical. The author of this story, Korin Miller, is a seasoned health journalist and former competitive athlete with years of experience using and testing ellipticals, adding her professional and personal expertise to the process. This thorough evaluation ensured our picks meet a wide range of needs and preferences. We also continue to test new products as they become available, adjusting our findings as new testing is completed. An elliptical trainer offers a low-impact cardiovascular workout. "It's a full-body workout that targets the legs, glutes, core and arms," Trachman says. "An elliptical offers several customizable choices, from interval training to hills and target heart-rate programs. It also helps to improve balance and coordination for overall health." Ellipticals often offer a range of resistance levels, allowing users to tailor the workout to their own needs. In general, 18 to 20 inches is considered standard for an elliptical stride. However, stride length typically corresponds to your height. If you're on the shorter side, a machine with an 18-inch stride may be a good option, Betts explains. If you're tall, a 20-inch model is likely better. Just keep in mind that a more vertical elliptical that doubles as a stair stepper may have a shorter stride length due to the change in stride direction (vertical versus horizontal). No, an elliptical is not considered harder on your knees than a treadmill. "On a treadmill, even when walking, you're lifting your foot off the belt and then placing it back down," Betts says. "This results in an impact force which causes a jarring effect on your ankles, knees and hips." That force also increases as your speed increases. Ellipticals remove that impact force, Betts points out. "Your foot remains in the pedal throughout, giving a smooth, gliding motion that's very easy on the knees." Several factors impact the number of calories you burn on an elliptical, including your age, weight, workout intensity, resistance level and the duration of your session, says Trachman. On average, however, you can expect to burn approximately 350 to 450 calories per hour on the machine. Although these ellipticals didn't make our final list, they offer some interesting features worth mentioning: Sole E95S, $2,600: Our tester appreciated the machine's smooth stride and touchscreen display, but she also found that it was too big and clunky to fit in most home spaces. It also was difficult to assemble, came with parts that scratched or bent easily and had a manufacturer's defect that the company later fixed. Merach High-End Elliptical, no longer available: The Merach machine our user tested is no longer available on the Merach website or Amazon. This machine had an appealingly low price and a smooth ride. However, our tester didn't like the knee-level controls and found that there was limited resistance in the arms. She also found it could be tricky for people with balance issues. Merach's just-released elliptical machines may be better suited for most users. We will work to test these new models in 2025. Echelon Ellipse EL-8s, $1,400: Our tester was excited to test out this machine, especially given the higher-tech screen and integrated workout programs, but the elliptical she received arrived damaged. Repeated attempts to connect with the brand to fix the problem weren't addressed, so the product was eliminated from the testing pool. Thomas Altadonna, a personal trainer and the owner of Platinum Fitness Michael Betts, personal trainer and director at TrainFitness Devin Trachman, an orthopedic physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Best recumbent exercise bikes in 2025: Comfortable, low-impact workouts at home
If you have back or joint pain, the idea of spending an hour, or even 30 minutes, on a bike might not sound the most comfortable. Luckily, there are more supportive options for getting your heart pumping. The best recumbent exercise bikes provide added support in the seat and back, allowing users to pedal along comfortably. Plus, many are packed with high-tech features, like large HD touchscreens and impressive sound systems, making getting those 30 to 60 minutes of cardio fly by. A recumbent bike has a unique look that's easy to identify. 'They are bikes that place the rider in a reclined position with back support,' says Devin Trachman, clinic director and physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central 'The seat on a recumbent bike is typically larger, like a chair with a supportive backrest.' While a bit bulkier than a standard stationary bike, this design is the key to the benefits of a recumbent one. 'This design provides support for the rider's back and reduces stress on the joints, especially the knees and hips,' says Sarah Pelc Graca, an NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Strong with Sarah. Another added benefit? "[The design] allows your hands to be free to read or use your mobile device," says Philip Kessel, vice president of athletics and cycle instructor at the Bay Club Company. As with most pieces of workout equipment, a recumbent bike is an investment. Before spending your hard-earned cash — and lugging a very heavy box to your workout space — make sure to do your research to ensure you choose a bike that fits your exercise goals and health needs. To help you make this decision, Yahoo's editorial team tested several of the most popular options over the course of three months. We also consulted two personal trainers and a physical therapist for their insights into what to look for in an exercise bike. Here are our picks of the three best recumbent bikes in 2025. Recumbent bikes aren't cheap — or easy to return — so it's essential to find the right one for your needs. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting the best recumbent exercise bike: Fitness goals and riding preferences: Not all recumbent bikes are built the same. Some are designed for more intense workouts, while others cater to casual exercise or rehabilitation. If you enjoy high-energy workouts, look for a bike with streaming capabilities for instructor-led sessions or an app to guide your training. Resistance levels also play a key role — ensure the bike offers enough challenge to match your fitness level and goals. Physical limitations and health conditions: Recumbent bikes are generally considered safe for most users, but if you have specific health conditions or physical limitations, consult your doctor before making a purchase. These bikes can be particularly beneficial for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injury due to their low-impact design. Type of bike: While most recumbent bikes are stationary and designed for indoor use, there are outdoor options available. Stationary models are often better suited for individuals with balance or mobility challenges, thanks to their sturdy construction and added stability features. Type of resistance: Resistance mechanisms differ among recumbent bikes. Magnetic resistance, the most common, uses magnets to adjust difficulty levels and offers a smooth and quiet ride. Alternatively, air resistance relies on a fan to increase resistance as you pedal harder, providing a more dynamic workout experience. Comfort features: Comfort is critical for longer workouts. Look for a bike with a well-padded seat and supportive backrest. Handlebars next to the seat can add stability, while features like water bottle holders and built-in fans enhance convenience. Be sure to check product details to confirm these extras are included if they're important to you. Connectivity and display: Recumbent bikes vary widely in terms of tech features. Some include HD touchscreens for streaming workouts, while others have simple LCD displays. Most models offer built-in workout programs, but higher-end options may allow you to access guided workouts through apps, either on the bike or on your own device. Budget and value: Determine what features you'll actually use to determine the best value. If streaming workouts or advanced tech features matter to you, investing in a pricier model may be worth it. However, even lower-priced bikes can provide a solid workout — just without as many bells and whistles. Available space and storage: Before purchasing, measure your intended workout area carefully. Leave enough space around the bike to get on and off comfortably and to pedal freely. If space is limited, consider a bike with wheels for easier maneuverability, though the bike's weight impacts how practical this is. The Yahoo editorial team conducted an in-depth analysis of the market's most popular recumbent bike models before narrowing down the selection for hands-on testing. Over three months, we rigorously tested several bikes, evaluating factors like ease of assembly, design, comfort, support, adjustability and smoothness of the ride. We also examined additional features, including streaming services, built-in workout programs, cup holders and phone trays, to assess each bike's overall value and convenience. Expert insights played a crucial role in the selection process. Two personal trainers and a physical therapist provided guidance on what to look for in a quality recumbent bike. Furthermore, this article's author, Korin Miller, is a health journalist and former competitive athlete with years of experience using and testing exercise bikes at home, bringing both expertise and personal perspective to the selection process. For more options, head on over to our list of the best workout bikes. Our in-house team put 15 stationary bikes to the test — see which ones came out on top. In addition to the four bikes that made our list, we also tested the SOLE R92 recumbent exercise bike. This gym-quality bike would make a solid choice for anyone who's willing to spend a little more for a sturdy recumbent bike that has features similar to what you might find at a commercial exercise facility. That said, at just shy of $1,300, it costs almost as much as the NordicTrack New 10 but doesn't have an integrated screen or streaming workout and entertainment options. And it has a lower weight capacity and similar built-in workout features as the Horizon Fitness 5.0R, which costs almost $700 less. However, it's worth noting that our tester really liked the built-in programs and the fact that the SOLE+ app is free and offers hundreds of workouts you can stream to your own tablet or phone. With the bike's built-in tablet holder (and a USB charging port to keep your device powered), it's easy to follow along with these routines. For anyone who wants streaming workouts but doesn't want the ongoing cost of a fitness subscription (like NordicTrack's iFit program), this may be the best choice. The advantages of using a recumbent bike go beyond comfort. 'People with back, neck, shoulder, hip and knee pain may prefer a recumbent bike to an upright bike for its benefits, including reclined positioning, leg placement that extends forward, supportive backrest and larger seat,' says Trachman. This ergonomic design reduces strain on the body, making it a great option for those with joint or mobility issues. Additionally, recumbent bikes require less pressure on the wrists and hands, making them more accessible for riders who might find upright bikes uncomfortable. Another perk? The seated position frees up your hands, allowing you to read, scroll through your device or even catch up on emails while getting your cardio in — ideal for multitaskers. Is a recumbent bike good for back pain? If you struggle with back pain, it's a good idea to consult with a doctor before purchasing a recumbent bike. However, these bikes are generally considered suitable. 'The ergonomic design of recumbent bikes offers excellent lumbar support, which can reduce strain on the lower back,' Graca notes. This supportive design makes them particularly beneficial for people with chronic lower back issues or those prone to back pain, providing a more comfortable and accessible way to stay active. Recumbent bikes focus on strengthening the lower body, engaging key muscles like the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and calves, according to Graca. 'This can lead to improved lower body strength and endurance over time,' she notes. But the benefits don't stop there. 'Pedaling movements originate from your core,' Kessel says, meaning your abs, obliques and hip flexors also get a workout. This full engagement makes recumbent bikes an excellent option for both building strength and enhancing endurance in a low-impact manner. The ideal console depends on your workout preferences. If you plan to watch TV or read while biking, a basic console that tracks key metrics like distance, calories burned and resistance levels might be all you need. For a more interactive experience, consider an HD console with the ability to stream workouts or connect to fitness apps. These features can make your sessions more engaging and motivating. Ultimately, think about how you'll use the bike and choose a console that aligns with your exercise goals and lifestyle. Philip Kessel, vice president of athletics and cycle instructor at the Bay Club Company Sarah Pelc Graca, a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Strong with Sarah Devin Trachman, clinic director and physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
