10 Best Cardio Machines Fully Reviewed
By Alice Rhoades
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As the weather cools, exercising outside becomes more and more of a challenge and you may need to find an alternative. Gym memberships can be a good choice, but there may not be a gym nearby, or you may just like the convenience of being able to work out at home.
Today there are a whole host of machines to help you get a great workout in the comfort of your own home. From compact stairmasters, to rowers, and bikes, there are a ton of options in a wide variety of styles, and our top 10 list is here to help you make the best choice for you.
Gone are the days of difficult to assemble and super expensive machines, and we hope our list helps you find the best machine for you!
- Concept2 Rowing Machine
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Our rating - Easy to store
- Price: See Here
- Maxi Climber Vertical Climber
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Our rating - Easy to customize
- Price: See Here
- Weslo Cadence G 5.9
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Our rating - Folds for storage
- Price: See Here
10 Best Cardio Machines
1. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
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 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.
- Low-impact
- Full body engagement
- Easy to store
- Sophisticated monitor
- Price
7. Maxi Climber Vertical Climber
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.
- Great for muscle toning
- Compact
- Quiet
- Easy to use
- Engages upper and lower body
- Inexpensive
- Not as challenging
3. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill
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.
- Easy to store
- Comfortable running
- Keeps you running through the winter
- Small size
- 275 lb weight limit
Sunny Health and Fitness Mini-Stepper with Resistance Bands
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.
- Stays grounded
- High quality
- Compact
- No assembly needed
- Seems expensive for size
- Limited movement
- Does not engage full body
5. Stamina X Air Rowing Machine
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 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.
- Less expensive
- Full body workout
- Low impact
- Compact and mobile
- Louder fan and belt
- Simple monitor
6. Marcy AIR1 Fan Bike
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.
- Lower price tag
- Challenging full body workout
- Easy to store
- Low impact
- Loud belt
- Not as durable
2. LifeCORE Fitness Assault Air Bike
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 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.
- Challenging full body workout
- Comprehensive computer screen
- Motivational programs
- High quality durable design
- Price
- Some find the seat uncomfortable
9. Schwinn AD6 Airdyne
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.
- Quiet
- Heavy and sturdy
- Provides challenging workout
- Good for recovery use
- Easy to assemble
- Good fan placement
- Smooth ride
- HRM and RPM tracking
- May have belt issues
- Display is hard to read
- Seat uncomfortably designed
4. EFITMENT Elliptical Machine
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.
- Easy to assemble
- Provides thorough workout
- Adaptable to different workout conditions
- High quality
- Easy to use computer monitor
- Safe and sturdy
- Easy to assemble
- Provides thorough workout
- Adaptable to different workout conditions
- Range of motion takes getting used to
- Monitor isn't the best
8. Concept2 SkiErg
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 is 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.
- Easy to assemble
- Provides thorough workout
- Adaptable to different workout conditions
- Light and mobile
- Moniters performance
- Wall mount and stand options
- May require a lot of maintenance in the long term
The Metrics We Used to Determine The Best Cardio Machine
We know that choosing a machine for your home isn’t easy. Even if it’s a good deal, you are investing a lot of your money and your space into your home workout and it is important to us that you feel satisfied in that decision. We have a strict set of criteria for this list, available below, and we feel that by providing it will allow our readers to come to a more informed and confident decision.
Effectiveness
Probably the baseline criteria for this list is the effectiveness of the machines. Whether this is your first piece of equipment or you are adding to an established home gym, it’s common sense that the effectiveness of a machine is one of its most important aspects. You will want a machine that is capable of producing results, no question.
Best Use
It is important to consider what each cardio machine is ideally suited for. Each machine will help raise your heart rate to keep you in great cardiovascular shape, but it can also help you strengthen and tone certain muscle areas. Some machines are ideally suited to replace your outdoor runs and others are best for working different muscles in cross training to complement your regular running schedule. We looked for options that cover a wide spectrum of needs.
Ease of Use
The convenience of a gym comes partly from having a staff available to assist and advise you on your workout. It is unlikely you will have such expertise on hand at home. Which is why we believe having easy to use machines is essential, so you won’t end up with a machine that will worry or intimidate you.
Safety
What risks a machine can pose and how safe it is, in general, are important, but we also examine how easily a machine can be used safely. This list features only machines you can use safely without professional training.
Impact
Running on pavement is one of the heaviest impact exercises there is when it comes to your joints. That is why that is our baseline. The machines here have been chosen because they have a lesser impact than running outside since often an exercise machine is used either during the off running season or when your joints need a break.
Size
One of the first ways something is innovated is through making it more compact. Exercise machines used to be much more cumbersome and bulky, but now most companies have developed more compact and easy to store options.
Value
A cardio machine is an investment. Keeping that in mind, the machines on this list aren’t the cheapest or the most expensive, but the cardio machines that give the most bang for the buck.
Other Things to Consider
Intensity
Every runner varies on their preferred exercise tempo. Some people live for the high-intensity workouts such as CrossFit or HIIT that leave you in a sweaty heap on the floor. Others are looking for a steadier tempo to raise their heart rate and stay in shape. It is important to consider where on this spectrum you fall. If you really hate to go anaerobic, an assault bike may not be the best option for you. Just as those who thrive on high-intensity work may not be satisfied by an elliptical. Those who like to go hard one day and nice and steady the next may look into a more versatile machine such as a treadmill or spin bike.
Purpose
Consider what you are looking for in a cardio machine and how you plan to incorporate it into your exercise routine. Machines such as a rower, assault bike, or vertical climber engage different muscles than running. These machines serve as great additions to a runner’s workout schedule and can be valuable options for cross training. Other options, such as the treadmill and elliptical, simulate the running motion and are more appropriate for supplementing runs when you cannot make it outside or are injured.
When considering purpose you may also think about how often you will use this machine. The price of these machines correlates with durability and sophistication. So, while every machine on this list is high quality, some are going to be more durable and can take more punishment than others. If you plan to exercise regularly at high intensity, you may consider investing in a higher-end model. However, if you plan to use this machine more moderately, save some money by opting for a simpler machine.
Injuries
Cardio machines can provide an excellent break from running when recovering from an injury. However, some machines may be better than others for certain types of pain. For example, if you have knee pain, avoid the treadmill and those with back pain may want to avoid the rower. If you are having consistent pain, talk with your doctor about what machine would work best for you.
FAQs
Q: What is the best machine for losing weight?
A: As far as burning calories, any of these machines will work well. Machines that engage more muscles in the body will burn more calories than those who don’t. Ultimately, the best machine for weight loss will be the one that you use most regularly.
Q: What is the best machine for knee pain?
A: Look for machines that take the weight out of your legs such as the rower or bike.
Q: What is the best machine for emulating running?
A: While many people are attracted to the elliptical for the lower impact, the treadmill is going to be your best bet. The treadmill allows for unrestricted strides and movements to closely emulate natural running.
Q: Will I be able to put the machine together by myself?
A: In a word, yes! While you may want another person there to help, all of these machines either come complete without needing to be assembled, or require simple assembly and come with clear instructions. Gone are the days of overcomplicated and bulky machines! These companies all know that nowadays customers expect simple assembly (if there is any at all), and will choose another option if their machine seems like it will be difficult to assemble.
Q: How do I stay motivated to use my machine? I’ve had workout equipment at home before and didn’t use it much.
A: We understand where you’re coming from! Most of us have purchased something in the past that ended up just sitting around gathering dust. All of the machines on our list are really easy and enjoyable to use, which will help keep you motivated. We also recommend putting the machine somewhere you will see it often to help motivate you. Finally, we suggest rewarding yourself for your workout: watch a favorite show while working out, or get caught up on a favorite audiobook. By doing something you enjoy while working out, you’ll be much more likely to use your machine, and will build a great at-home workout habit!
Sources
- , Joint Effects from Treadmill Vs. Street Running, Web Page, Sep 11, 2017
- , The Best (and Worst) Cardio Machines at The Gym, Web Page, Oct 21, 2018
- , Energy expenditure with indoor exercise machines, Research , May 19, 2006
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