Most clients may prefer to use exercise bikes and treadmills when going to the gym. However, ellipticals are also a popular but underrated cardio option. If you like working out in your small room instead of hitting the gym, investing in your compact elliptical machine is possible.
Aside from being a great cardio workout, ellipticals also target a lot of muscle groups. One of its most significant benefits is that it is so low impact that it will not put a strain on your joints. It also works both your lower and upper body whenever you use it.
Ellipticals are highly recommended for everyone, whether you’re a senior, a beginner, or someone recovering from an injury. They’re so versatile and widespread that many fitness enthusiasts buy one as an addition to their home gym.
However, if you want to invest in your very own elliptical, there is one downside – they’re too huge. This can be a big problem for those who live in small apartments, only because it will take a lot of space. Luckily, compact ellipticals exist and are a good option if you don’t have enough room in your area. Sad to say, but size does matter.
If you’re interested to know more about the best small ellipticals for your home, keep reading. We’ve curated a list of some of the best small but convenient ellipticals, so you don’t have to spend hours on end searching online.
Without further ado, here are some of the best small ellipticals for your home and if you only have limited space:
Top 5 Best Small Ellipticals for Your Home
1. Exerpeutic 2000 XL
Product Description
The Exerpeutic 2000 XL is considered one of the most popular small but convenient ellipticals by satisfied customers. However, it’s not the most compact one. Its dimensions are 54 inches in length and 23 inches in width, which can fit in cramped or small rooms. This machine’s stride length is also the same as most ellipticals, measuring 13 inches.
If you’re around 5 feet tall, then this compact elliptical is suitable for you. The 2000 XL uses magnets to apply resistance, making it a quiet trainer instead of making a lot of noise. However, you’ll still hear squeaks here and there, but nothing else. This durable elliptical can also support users who weigh up to 300 lbs.
One key feature to admire the Exerpeutic 2000 XL is its Bluetooth capability. This detail allows you to sync in your workout statistics from your phone app, making it great to keep you motivated and track your progress.
Pros
- 54″ L x 23′ W
- Suitable for individuals who are around 5 feet tall
- It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Includes magnets to apply resistance
- Features a Bluetooth capability
Cons
- Has an old fashioned LCD Display
- No workout programs included
- Stride length only measures 13 inches
2. Exerpeutic Gold – 2000XLST
Product Description
Here is another compact elliptical by Exerpeutic Gold that will fit even in cramped spaces. The 2000XLST has two main impressive features.
First, it comes with 21 preset programs, which can come in handy when you have no clue what you’re doing. This feature allows you to spice up your ordinary exercises. You can celebrate small wins by setting the calories you want to burn or the distance you want to pass.
The second main feature is its Bluetooth capability. This feature allows you to sync your workout stats from either your Android or iOs smartphone, keeping you on track of your progress and motivated throughout your workout.
Another thing to admire about the 2000XLST elliptical is its three-piece crank, which promotes smoother pedaling. However, Exerpeutic decided to pair with magnetic 16 resistance levels, making it a more excellent machine.
Pros
- It comes with 21 preset programs
- Has a Bluetooth capability
- Features a three-piece crank, promoting smoother pedaling
- Includes 16 magnetic resistance levels
Cons
- Stride length measures only 13 inches
- Has a weight capacity of 275 lbs
3. Sunny Health & Fitness – SF-E3804
Product Description
This compact elliptical by Sunny Health & Fitness offers a longer stride length of 13.5 inches, compared to the first two examples above. This feature sets a higher starting point compared to the previous ellipticals.
Its dimensions are almost similar to the 2000XL, except it is a half-inch taller and more expansive. It may not be the smallest or most compact elliptical; it is still considered in the compact ellipticals category.
The SF-E3804 has a weight capacity of 287 lbs, which is suitable for the average home user. This feature also sheds light on its durability. On the other hand, it also includes eight adjustable levels with a magnetic resistance, which omits the noise whenever you exercise.
Another thing to admire about this elliptical is the display, which shows you your statistics and progress. It also includes a media rack, where you can place your tablet or phone while listening to music or watching videos.
Pros
- 13.5 inches longer stride
- Provides durability
- Includes eight adjustable and magnetic resistance levels
- Features a comprehensive stats display
- Has a media rack
- Has a weight capacity of 287 lbs
Cons
- 13.5 inches stride length is still short
- It does not include workout programs
4. Simpfree Elliptical Machine
Product Description
Suppose you’re looking for a compact elliptical that will fit your small apartment. In that case, the Simpfree Elliptical Machine has the smallest measures around. It measures only 41 inches in length and 19 inches in width. As for the stride length, it is 13 inches.
The Simpfree also has eight levels of magnetic resistance and a comprehensive display. For the weight capacity, it offers a massive user limit of 330 lbs. However, its short frame won’t wobble at that weight range. The small footprint helps keep the total weight of the elliptical low. It includes little transport wheels in the front for you to move it around easily.
Pros
- Measures 41″ L x 19″ W
- Includes eight levels of magnet-based resistance
- Has a weight capacity of 330 lbs
- A small footprint helps keep the total weight of the elliptical low
- It has a comprehensive display
- Carries little transport wheels
Cons
- Has a stride length of 13.”
- It takes time to assemble
- Short frame and body might make it wobble at high intensity.
5. Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine
Product Description
If you’re looking for a compact elliptical that allows you to immerse yourself in a world of virtual courses digitally, the Schwinn 411 is an excellent choice. It includes exotic locales and stunning trails from around the globe and has three free courses available.
The 411 Compact Elliptical Machine dimensions are small. Its stride length measures 18 inches, which is the longest stride. One exciting feature about this elliptical machine is its sync ability with runsocial, which adds an excellent social and virtual workout dimension.
The Schwinn 411 includes a decent number of 16 resistance levels. Other features of this compact elliptical include a compact design, a built-in media rack, and a water bottle holder. Lastly, it has a Streamlined console that displays time, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.
Pros
- Has a syncing ability with runsocial
- Features a decent number of 16 resistance levels
- Has a weight capacity of 300 lbs
- It has a compact design
- Has an 18″ stride length
- It offers a built-in media rack and a water bottle holder
- Includes a streamlined console that displays time, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.
Cons
- It has an outdated looking console
- Pricey
- Does not offer workout programs
What to Look for in a Small Elliptical For Your Home?
Buying your elliptical machine may seem exciting and all, but first, here are a few features that you need to consider first before investing. A buying guide is necessary to make a smart decision and ensure value in your money spent.
1. Footprint
The first thing you might want to check when looking for compact ellipticals is the footprint on the unit. Aside from checking the dimensions, keep in mind that the pedals move in an elliptical shape to extend beyond the frame of the body.
We recommend adding at least 15 to 20 inches from all dimensions of the unit’s sides to create a safe workout space.
2. Stability
Since you’ll be working both of your arms and legs when using the small elliptical, try to avoid those that are poorly designed and light frame. Otherwise, it will wobble more.
Compact ellipticals are shorter in length. Instead, choose an elliptical with a strong frame and sit firmly on the floor since this will make or break the machine.
3. Stride length
The compact design is another feature you’d want to consider since this will make or break the elliptical as well. This feature is also essential for those who have joint problems. The elliptical stride lies in the elliptical motion, so we suggest you get a machine with a proper stride size that fits well for your height.
Let’s say you’re 5’5″; we recommend getting a machine with a stride length of 13 to 16 inches. However, if you’re taller than that, choose an elliptical with a stride of 18 inches. For people who are 6 feet, you will need one with a 22-inch stride.
In most cases, if you want to tone your glutes, a 18 to 20-inch stride is the ideal length.
4. Resistance Levels
Elliptical machines come with adjustable resistance levels. They also come in two different types: magnetic resistance and friction resistance. The prior is more durable and quieter, while the latter is more affordable but louder.
If you’re only a beginner, the thing that should interest you is at the lowest level, so it’s easy for you to work out. However, if you’re more experienced or suppose you want room for growth and progress.
In that case, your chosen elliptical should also offer you a challenging workout in the mid-level range. Ideally, you’d want to buy an elliptical that has a decent number of resistance levels.
So, Which One Should You Buy?
Ellipticals are the most popular and sometimes underrated piece of equipment used by fitness enthusiasts. It is so versatile that many users invest in one as an addition to their home gym. However, one major problem is that it is too huge, which can be a big deal if you don’t have adequate space. Fortunately, compact ellipticals are an excellent option, and many brands sell different small ellipticals.
We highly recommend the Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine. It includes excellent features, including 16 levels of magnetic resistance, an 18-inch stride length, and a syncing ability with runsocial, to name a few. This fantastic compact elliptical will surely keep you track of your progress and motivated on your fitness journey.
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