10 Best Cardio Machines Fully Reviewed

Effectiveness:
Rowing provides a very effective full body workout. This machine is designed to move smoothly and closely mimics the motion of rowing in a boat. The user controls the speed and resistance so even a short period of hard work can lead to noticeable full-body results.

Best use:
This low impact machine works the entire body and is great for cross-training or keeping you in cardiovascular shape when you cannot get out to run.

Ease of Use:
Adjustable footrests and ergonomic handles make this machine easy to customize for maximum comfort during exercise. Users love the user-friendly Performance Monitor 5 that tracks data for each row. Additionally, this machine is compatible with RowPro Software to help you get even more out of your workout. Finally, the flywheel and adjustable damper let you control resistance and keeps the machine’s noise level down to that of a fan.

Safety:
Rowing does require some instruction and practice to learn proper form. However, after some practice, this machine is very safe and has few risks for injury.

Impact:
The rowing motion has a very low impact and is a great option for those who need to give their joints a break.

Size:
The machine itself is long and skinny with wheels at the front to move it easily into position. This rower also features a convenient quick-release frame lock which separates the machine into two easy-to-store parts with no tools and little effort.

Value:
The higher price tag is the only real downfall of this piece of equipment. However, this quality machine is built to last and is a justifiable investment for your fitness.

Effectiveness:
Unlike other exercise bikes, the Air Bike engages your arms as well as your legs for a full upper and lower body workout. The Assault bike utilizes air resistance that builds as you pedal. So, the harder you work the more resistance you are met with.

Best use:
As you can imagine this is not a great piece for coasting or zoning out while you clock your 30 minutes of cardio. Whether you keep it steady at a target heart rate or are sprinting for a high-intensity workout, you will be sweating within minutes of climbing on this bike. This hardcore but low impact piece of equipment is great for tough cross-training.

Ease of use:
The comprehensive computer screen shows distance, time, speed, RPM, watts, and calories as well as motivational programs. The seat is adjustable up and down as well as forward and back for a more comfortable fit. Some users do find it uncomfortable for long workouts, however, it does not seem to be a deal breaker. Those who really do not like it solve the issue easily by adding an extra pad or replacing the seat entirely.

Safety:
Some care may be required when mounting and dismounting this bike but the stable design poses little risk for falling or slipping off.

Impact:
There is a very little impact when seated on the bike and slightly more if you choose to stand on the pedals. This is still an improvement on the beating your joints take from regular running on pavement.

Size:
This bike takes up less space than the typical treadmill or elliptical and does feature some front wheels to roll it in and out of storage. However, there are no collapsable features.

Value:
The price is a bit higher than others on the market but users feel the durable design and quiet fan make the cost easy to justify.

Effectiveness:
The treadmill is an effective replacement for running or jogging outside. It features six personal trainer workouts and a 2-position manual incline so that you can push yourself as hard or as little as you want. Each workout is designed by a personal trainer who has been certified so that you can get more out of your workout.

Best use:
It is best used indoors when it's too hot, cold, or rainy to run outside.

Ease of use:
This treadmill is very simple to use thanks to its blue-tinted LCD with priority display. You can track your workout speed, distance, and calories so that you can check on your progress throughout your entire workout. It also monitors your heart rate. When you're done, it simply folds up with just a lifting motion.

Safety:
Treadmills can be a bit risky so this may not be the best option for the clumsy or easily distracted. This particular machine does have an emergency stop key you can clip to your shirt. It also has handles for gripping as you run.

Impact:
Running on a treadmill does have some more impact on your joints than many other machines. However, the treadmill belt is specially designed with a layer of cushioning for the best stride impact absorption.

Size:
This treadmill is smaller than your typical gym treadmill. The small size, collapsible design, and wheels make this machine easy for storing out of the way. Some users do feel that the size is a bit too small. However, most feel it is adequate for getting in comfortable strides.

Value:
This is a great option for runners on a budget as it is a fraction of the cost of higher-end machines.

Effectiveness:
Many studies show that low-impact elliptical machines have the potential to raise heart rate and burn calories just as well as running. Some critics note that the movement on an elliptical is restricted and unnatural, making it less effective. It is also easier to slack off on an elliptical than on some of the other machines mentioned. However, this machine does engage the upper body and comes with 8 resistance settings and a monitor to help you meet your goals.

Best use:
An elliptical is a great option for getting in some cardio when your joints are hurting.

Ease of use:
This machine is easy to use properly with little learning required. The computer is simple to understand and operate.

Safety:
This elliptical has a stable build to ensure safe usage.

Impact:
Elliptical training relieves much of the impact of typical running and will not add additional stress to your joints.

Size:
This model has a smaller footprint than most and is designed to take up less space in the home. It also has wheels to make it easier to move into and out of storage.

Value:
The price is relatively inexpensive for this high quality and durable machine. It is a fraction of the cost of full-sized gym ellipticals.

Effectiveness:
Rowing is a great option for full-body, low-impact cardio. It is a tough and very effective method of cross-training and this model is basic but completely sufficient to give you a good workout.

Best use:
This option is best for entry-level rowers. The machine and computer are more basic than the Concept2 rower but you will still get an effective full-body workout.

Ease of Use:
Again, there may be a learning curve when beginning rowing. However, the simplistic design and computer are easy to use.

Safety:
With attention to proper form, there are not many risks to using this machine.

Impact:
Rowing is a very low impact making it a great exercise to strengthen muscles without stressing joints.

Size:
This model folds in two for compact storage and featured front wheels allow easy mobility.

Value:
At less than half of the price of the Concept2 this is a great option for a home cardio machine. Most users agree this rower has great quality for the price.

Effectiveness:
The simpler design of this Air Bike provides the same tough, full body workout as the higher-end models.

Best use:
This is a great option for anyone new to resistance biking or those who do not see themselves using it regularly. The simpler monitor and slightly less durable design is perfect for beginners but may not hold up to the harsh punishment of frequent tough workouts.

Ease of use:
This bike is easy to use and features a simple monitor to track speed, time, distance, and calories. The seat and handles are adjustable for a comfortable ride but the fan cannot be adjusted to change resistance.

Safety:
This is a low risk machine.

Impact:
Fan bikes are a great low impact exercise for cross-training.

Size:
The fan on this bike is slightly smaller than the Concept2 Assault bike. It does fold in half and has wheels for easy storage.

Value:
Great value for the price! This bike is easy to use for challenging workouts for less than half the price of higher end models.

Effectiveness:
The Maxi Climber engages the upper and lower body for an effective full body workout. Unlike the Assault bike, it does not challenge the user with increased resistance so you need to push yourself on this machine.

Best use:
This is a great option for lower intensity cross training with muscle toning. It will certainly get your heart rate up but the climbing motion will provide a nice burn for muscles throughout your body.

Ease of use:
This climber is easy to use and the ergonomic handles and adjustable height are easy to customize. With an automated timer, you can track your workouts and the quiet nature makes it great for using while watching TV. The pedals are spiked so shoes are required even when at home.

Safety:
This machine is very safe to use. Some users note a bit of movement with climbing but none feel at risk of tipping over or falling off.

Impact:
This machine does put more weight in the legs than some others listed but it is still relatively low impact.

Size:
The climber is fairly small in size and folds for easy storage.

Value:
This is fairly inexpensive for any cardio machine.

Effectiveness:
This machine is praised for its ability to utilized many muscle groups. Concept2’s SkiErg may not seem like it, but it works on many different groups of muscles simultaneously, giving you a well-rounded workout.

Best Use:
The Concept2 SkiErg is meant for intense sessions dedicated to improving your strength and endurance. The flywheel adjusts to your pull strength to maximize the potential of each rep and each set.

Ease of use:
The SkiErg is an incredibly accessible machine. It is easy to assemble, with options to either have the machine wall mounted or set on the floor with an additional stand. The SkiErg is also light and maneuverable when not mounted.

Safety:
No safety concerns or issues have been reported with the SkiErg. The SkiErg has also been reviewed as being quite stable.

Impact:
The SkiErg from Concept2 genius is in its simplicity. This machine offers customizable resistance so that users with injury or recovery based exercise restrictions can adapt their routine with the SkiErg to their needs.

Size:
The SkiErg isn’t notably big and also can either be arranged with a floor stand or a wall mount so you can put it wherever is most convenient for you.

Value:
The Concept2 SkiErg comes at a rather high cost, but the product's performance and long-term quality are noteworthy, making it well worth it. The SkiErg does use pull cables which will see consistent wear, so something to consider in the long run is the eventual need to replace them.

Effectiveness:
The AD6 Airdyne’s full cardio challenge comes from its very nature as a fan bike. The fan blades are scooped to make the air harder to push. Thus in your efforts to cool yourself, you end up working harder. This creates a cycle that makes certain that you will work as hard as you can.

Best Use:
Exercise bikes are a good tool when going outside for your cardio isn’t an option. Rain and cold are usually inhibiting factors, but this bike is also a good option in areas where it becomes too hot to go outside since it has that additional cooling factor.

Ease of Use:
This Schwinn exercise bike is easy to assemble, meaning you will be free to work out with it in no time. The bike also rides smoothly and has specialized balanced paddles with securing straps. You can also track your RPM and heart rate with the AD6, but the display isn’t lit so it has some visibility issues.

Safety:
Some users voiced concerns if you are shorter or taller when using the AD6 Airdyne. So if you happen to be atypical in height, a small measure of caution won’t hurt.

Impact:
Users of the Airdyne praise it for being a low impact and smart choice for those recovering from surgery or injury.

Size:
The Schwinn AD6 Airdyne isn’t notably big or small. It does have front mounted wheels to aid in moving the equipment if needed.

Value:
The AD6 isn’t the most affordable option on this list, but few products will be able to promise a comprehensive upper and lower body cardio workout all while cooling you off in the process. This is why believe that the Schwinn’s AD6 Airdyne is deserving of a place on this list.

Effectiveness:
Stair steppers are a great way to raise heart rate while toning the calves and glutes. In general, the stepping movement is a bit unnatural and restricted but this small machine actually has an advantage over the large stair steppers as it allows your arms to swing naturally. This stepper is solidly built to support sprint workouts as well as steady climbing.

Best use:
This is great for any intensity cross-training that focuses on toning the lower body. The resistance bands also let you choose to add in an upper body workout as well.

Ease of use:
This stepper requires no setup and is very simple to use. The resistance is easily adjustable and the silicone fluid makes for quiet and smooth operation.

Safety:
This small stepper is safe and easy to use.

Impact:
Higher impact than seated machines but still less impact than running outside.

Size:
This stepper is a fraction of the size of any other machine listed and is very easy to store away.

Value:
This may seem pricey for this small piece of equipment but this compact stair master solidly built and stays stably grounded during your workout, unlike budget options.