Very popular in the world of fitness, the elliptical bike is one of the best options for working on your endurance and fitness. But choosing and buying this type of equipment is not easy given the multiplicity of ranges that differ by their characteristics. Here is a guide to help you find the best elliptical.
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Our selection
"Designed for regular use, the Pro-Form 325 CSE elliptical offers excellent value for money. Equipped with a magnetic braking system, it offers 20 levels of…"
"The Care CE-602 elliptical is ideal for occasional to regular use. This model is very practical with 8 intensity levels and compact with its dimensions…"
"The I. FDC19 elliptical is a gym machine designed for a complete and effective workout. It is equipped with a 35 kg adjustable resistance flywheel…"
"Extra stable with an elegant design, the Skandika Fint is an excellent elliptical with its modularity of resistance of 24 levels on a mass of…"
Designed for regular use, the Pro-Form 325 CSE elliptical offers excellent value for money. Equipped with a magnetic braking system, it offers 20 levels of resistance on a 9 kg flywheel.
399 £ on AlltricksThe Pro-Form 325 CSE is a compact, high-performance elliptical with features and functions designed for regular use. Equipped with a magnetic braking system, the device adopts a 9 kg motorized flywheel with 20 levels of adjustable resistance according to your choice. To accompany you in your workouts, it has mp3 connectivity, speakers for listening to music and a fan.
It also has an LED screen console that provides information on your session including speed, resistance, time, distance, calories, pulse, etc. The monitor has 20 predefined workout programs to coach you and help you reach your goals. With large non-slip pedals, the gym allows a maximum load of 115 kg on a length of 135 cm, 63 cm wide and a height of 161 cm with a weight of 47 kg.
The Care CE-602 elliptical is ideal for occasional to regular use. This model is very practical with 8 intensity levels and compact with its dimensions of 50 x 70 x 154 cm for a weight of 27 kg.
208 £ on CdiscountThe Care CE-602 is a motorized magnetic resistance elliptical with a 10 kg flywheel. This model is more suitable for beginners and those who want to train gently and easily. With a very practical appearance, the fitness machine offers 8 levels of adjustable intensity with 16 training programs. It provides stable pedaling with synchronized arm and leg movements for a user up to 100 kg.
The elliptical features a backlit LCD display and touch-sensitive Handpulse sensors. The console displays information about your pace such as time, distance, speed, calories burned and heart rate. An added bonus to the device is that it also displays body mass and pedal revolutions per minute. With a sleek design, it is compact thanks to its dimensions of 50 x 70 x 154 cm and its weight of 27 kg. Already very light, it has transport wheels to make it easier to move.
The I. FDC19 elliptical is a gym machine designed for a complete and effective workout. It is equipped with a 35 kg adjustable resistance flywheel and minimal distance pedals on a very sturdy structure.
1 039 £ on AlltricksThe elliptical i. FDC19 elliptical has been designed for intensive use equivalent to approximately 7 to 20 hours per week. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this equipment is suitable for users up to 1.85 m tall and weighing up to 130 kg. Equipped with a magnetic resistance system, the machine benefits from an inertia wheel equivalent to 35 kg, adjustable on 24 intensity levels. It is made up of a backlit console displaying power, distance, speed while offering 12 training programs including 4 heart rate control programs.
The elliptical is distinguished by the minimal distance of its pedals at 14 cm and the possibility of defining 4 personalized training programs. Its handlebars also have pulse sensors and support optional chest belts. To its advantage, it embeds the i.Concept technology that allows you to connect a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth and enjoy paid or free applications. With a great stability and a robust structure, it takes a weight of 85 kg with two transport wheels placed in the front.
Extra stable with an elegant design, the Skandika Fint is an excellent elliptical with its modularity of resistance of 24 levels on a mass of inertia to 9 kg. Its console offers 19 preset programs plus a customizable mode.
415 £ on Go-sportAny specific needs?
The best entry-level elliptical
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE TOP | NOT EXPENSIVE | TOP OF THE RANGE | Excellent | |
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8/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
PRO-FORM 325 CSE
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CARE CE-602
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BH I.FDC19 G860I
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Skandika Fint
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Designed for regular use, the Pro-Form 325 CSE elliptical offers excellent value for money. Equipped with a magnetic braking system, it offers 20 levels of resistance on a 9 kg flywheel.
|
The Care CE-602 elliptical is ideal for occasional to regular use. This model is very practical with 8 intensity levels and compact with its dimensions of 50 x 70 x 154 cm for a weight of 27 kg.
|
The I. FDC19 elliptical is a gym machine designed for a complete and effective workout. It is equipped with a 35 kg adjustable resistance flywheel and minimal distance pedals on a very sturdy structure.
|
Extra stable with an elegant design, the Skandika Fint is an excellent elliptical with its modularity of resistance of 24 levels on a mass of inertia to 9 kg. Its console offers 19 preset programs plus a customizable mode.
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Inertia mass
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9 kg
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10 kg
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35 kg
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9 kg
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Resistance levels
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20 levels
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8 levels
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24 levels
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24 levels
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Training program
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20 programs
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16 programs
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12 programs + 4 manual modes
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19 programs + 1 manual mode
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Maximum load
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115 kg
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100 kg
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130 kg
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130 kg
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Dimensions & weight
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135 x 63 x 161 cm & 47 kg
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50 x 70 x 154 cm & 27 kg
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185 x 70 x 170 cm & 85 kg
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126 x 68 x 161 cm & 37.9 kg
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The size of the device is an essential criterion, as it conditions the amplitude of the movement. For best results, you should take into account your height and your goals. For example, a 1.30 m long model is recommended for those who are over 1.80 m tall and those who want to train more than 3 times a week. If you are under 6 feet tall, avoid a model under 6 feet since it does not offer a true elliptical motion. In addition, make sure that the position of the pedals of the device is adjustable.
The structure should be adapted to your morphology so that you can perform the movements with ease. In terms of length, as mentioned above, the elliptical should be between 1 m and 1.30 m long depending on your height. The wheelbase is also an important element for better stability. The wider the wheelbase, the more stable the bike will be when exercising. Some models are equipped with leveling devices to correct unevenness in the ground. Apart from comfort and stability, make sure the structure of the device is sturdy and durable.
The flywheel is a primary criterion in terms of comfort. The heavier it is, the smoother your movements will be. Its weight should be taken into account according to how often you use the device. If you plan to use it occasionally, a flywheel weighing at least 7 kg is ideal; while for daily or frequent use, a flywheel weighing at least 20 kg is suitable.
Stride distance is the distance covered after making half a turn of the pedal. There are two sizes to choose from: 40 and 50 cm
. The first is suitable for beginners and small to medium-sized people. The second size is for taller people and for intensive use. Elliptical bikes with a 50 cm stride reproduce long movements, similar to Nordic walking. Before making any purchase, remember to test the machine and make sure it's right for your body type.
There are two types of braking: magnetic and electromagnetic. The magnetic braking system is ideal for occasional use. The resistance can be adjusted manually with a knob or motorized. For the latter, a motor controls the movement of the magnets. It should be noted that it is these magnets that brake the movement of the wheel. On the other hand, the electromagnetic braking system offers all the advantages of magnetic braking without its disadvantages. Precision, smoothness and pedaling comfort are guaranteed. Here, the resistance is provided by an electromagnet.
The pedaling amplitude is an important point to train with ease. The longer the machine, the greater the pedaling amplitude, allowing you to perform the exercises comfortably. The position of the flywheel also has an impact on the pedaling range. When it is located at the front, it provides a flatter stride that puts more strain on the muscles. On the other hand, when it is located at the back, it offers a more circular stride and the muscular effort is lessened. The former is a great option if your goal is to build muscle, while the latter is recommended if you want to lose weight.
The console is sort of the conductor of the elliptical, as it is the one that allows you to control the different programs and functions, but also to monitor the results. All the necessary information is displayed on the console, including speed, session duration, distance traveled, pulse rate, etc. It is therefore preferable to opt for a console with a large and readable screen. In addition, make sure that the device offers the functions and programs necessary to achieve your goals. As far as the handlebars are concerned, it is best to choose mobile bars connected to the pedals so that you can work your lower and upper body at the same time. With fixed handlebars, only the lower part of the body is used.
The elliptical is a fitness machine that is perfectly suited for sports activities. It is ideal if your goal is to lose weight, build muscle, gain muscle mass and even rehabilitation.
Just like the stepper, treadmill, exercise bike, rowing machine, inversion table and spinning bike, its operation is relatively simple. Moreover, its use does not represent any danger for the joint.
In fact, the elliptical bike works in the same way as a running bike except that you must train on the spot and standing. The movements performed are elliptical or gliding. They are perfectly combined with the movements of your arms through the handles placed at shoulder height. Note that the machine generally comes with 4 handles, 2 of which follow the movements of the pedals.
In order to make your choice easier, we have classified the elliptical trainers (according to the models we put on the test bench) according to their braking system and the position of their inertia mass.
For this type of elliptical, the pedaling resistance is provided by a strap
around the flywheel. The more the belt compresses the flywheel, the greater the pedaling resistance. Strap resistance models are rare because of their many drawbacks. This type of resistance lacks smoothness and wears out quickly, while also creating annoying noises over time. There is a big difference from newer braking systems.
This type of elliptical is not suitable for regular, intensive sessions. Rather, it is suitable for occasional use, especially if you would like to elliptical from time to time to relieve stress.
For
this type of elliptical, the resistance of the wheel is generated by the magnets placed around it. This gives a stronger and more comfortable pedaling experience, unlike a strap-on resistance. This type of resistance is also more durable and quieter
.
Some models are equipped with a motorized magnetic resistance brake. The movements are smoother, but the force must be adjusted from the on-board monitor, which is not the case with magnetic resistance models. In the case of magnetic resistance models, the force can be adjusted by pressing buttons on the handles.
This type of elliptical is best suited for frequent and regular workouts. The magnets provide greater pedaling comfort.
More
complex and sophisticated than the other two types of resistance, electromagnetic resistance is generated by electromagnets whose force can be modulated with electricity. Elliptical bikes with this braking system are even more durable and resistant than magnetic resistance models. They can withstand heavy use
.
Although suitable for everyone, the electromagnetic resistance elliptical is best suited for professionals who follow an intensive training program. It allows you to schedule multiple workouts to achieve your goals.
Rear flywheel elliptical bikes are the most numerous on the market. They are popular for their fairly affordable price and compactness
. These models are perfect for small spaces since they can be stored easily. Since they usually contain small, fragile components, they must be used with care to avoid damage.
If you're on a budget, this type of elliptical is a great option because it's fairly affordable. It is also a good alternative if you have limited space to install it, especially if you live in a small apartment.
Generally
used by professional athletes, these models are much more efficient than those with a rear flywheel. However, they are more expensive and rare on the market. Their advantages are numerous, to name a few: their sturdiness. This type of elliptical offers a smoother motion
and is suitable for everyone. It is also easy to maintain and can be used for intensive workouts.
The front flywheel elliptical is perfect for professionals who want to maintain their fitness. This machine is suitable for intensive use and does not require any special precautions, unlike a rear flywheel model.
The fitness bike is a piece of sports equipment that promises a multitude of benefits. Indeed, almost all of your muscles (80% more precisely) will be solicited, both the lower body and the upper body. It will also work your cardio and help you burn calories.
The fact that you are exercising in a standing position forces you to stay balanced, which will certainly improve your coordination. The ability to backpedal makes it stand out from other bodybuilding fitness machines.
The exercise bike has 3 functions. In addition to cardio, you can also work your muscles while losing weight. The device specifically works the lower body through pedaling. The parameters can be adjusted to suit the physical condition of each user. The use of this type of equipment ensures an overall improvement of the breath, a development of the endurance and a strengthening of the articulations.
In the seated position, the hamstrings, abdominal muscles, legs, calves, thighs and buttocks are the ones that will be exercised the most. The calories burned will depend on the intensity of the muscular effort provided.
If you want to work on your fitness while improving your stamina, choose the exercise bike. In addition to toning your body, it helps you lose weight by burning an average of up to 600 calories in an hour of training.
On the other hand, the elliptical bike remains the most effective weight loss machine. Indeed, you benefit from 15% more calories burned compared to the exercise bike because it will also work the upper body.
To have a fitness room at home
The elliptical offers the advantage of being able to do a complete workout without leaving home. No more constraints related to work, weather or family responsibilities. You can now train at your own pace and according to your schedule.
For its motivating training programs
Elliptical trainers are becoming more and more sophisticated and many offer pre-configured training programs, adapted to different needs (fitness, cardio-training, preparation for a competition, etc.). Whether you want to work on your fitness, control your breathing or for rehabilitation, the fun programs will motivate you to reach your goals easily.
For its physiological benefits
The use of the elliptical bike solicits your entire musculature. With simple movements and without straining your joints, you can effectively improve your cardiovascular system as well as your respiratory capacity, to gain vitality.
To lose weight
Elliptical bikes help to burn fat efficiently without putting in a lot of physical effort. Instead of using only one part of the body, the elliptical distributes the effort by involving all the muscles, which allows you to accumulate large quantities of calories burned.
To relieve stress
A good workout on your elliptical will help you relieve the stress you've built up during the day and help you get a good night's sleep. Ideal for relaxing the body and mind, you will feel a tremendous sense of well-being after your workout.
In our opinion, the best brands of elliptical bikes in 2022 are :
A German brand known in the fitness world since the year 2015, Sportstech provides you with sports equipment that is both light and very quiet. They come in different ranges to suit all budgets.
Gorilla Sport is the perfect partner if you're looking for a sturdy piece of fitness equipment at a great price.
Among the leaders in the fitness market, Capital Sports designs weight training and fitness equipment adapted to all physical conditions. Whether you're a professional or an amateur, you're sure to find the Capital Sports elliptical suitable for your needs.
The Proform brand is one of the best manufacturers of elliptical trainers. And for good reason, you will have access to quality equipment that is just as easy to use. Workouts will be a real pleasure.
This brand has everything to please. Its elliptical bikes are of unparalleled quality. NordicTrack offers a wide range of models that will surely satisfy you.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Increase incline and resistance
Increasing the incline or resistance of your elliptical makes your muscles work harder. Muscles use calories for fuel, so the harder your muscles work, the more calories you burn. Increasing the incline is like going up a steeper hill, which makes your muscles work much harder than going up a moderate hill. Changing the incline also targets different muscle groups. In one workout, you can exercise your entire body.
Change the movement
Try going
backwards from time to time and occasionally speed up or slow down your pace. For maximum variety, change your pedaling speed as your sessions progress.
Increase your heart rate
Your
heart rate is a good indicator of the intensity and caloric potential of your exercise - the harder the exercise, the faster your heart rate and the more calories you burn
.
Follow a training program
Following
a workout program can help you stay on track. iFit offers an unlimited number of workout classes that help maximize the effects of your elliptical workout from the comfort of your home. Using iFit workout programs pushes you even further by helping you set and exceed your caloric intake goals.
Listen to upbeat music
Accompany
your workout with upbeat music. This allows you to work out in silence while listening to the radio or reading can actually distract you from your routine, and slow the pace of your workout. You don't have to give up your programs or books completely, just make sure you don't lose your rhythm.
The best elliptical depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.
The elliptical should be used on average between 15 and 60 minutes per day. However, this frequency will depend on your goal and your physical condition.
An ideal piece of equipment for cardio training, the elliptical bike allows you to build up both upper and lower body muscles.
The first results depend mainly on the frequency of use. They will only be visible if you use the elliptical regularly. The gluteal muscles, thighs and calves are the most visible.
The number of sessions can vary depending on the user, their fitness level and their goals. Some people will be able to obtain convincing results in only one week of use while others will not.
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