You enter a fitness paradox when you need exercise to combat joint pain and stiffness, but those same conditions don’t let you. Sweating over a treadmill or stepping onto a basketball court may become impossible because of old age or prior injury.
That’s where the best recumbent elliptical comes to the rescue.
You might've seen large cross-training machines in rehab centers, with various contraptions like pedals and handles. They allow low-impact, total-body cardio, but tend to cost a lot. Luckily, manufacturers are also selling more affordable recumbent cross trainers for home use.
Check out our top picks. And don’t worry about going to therapy or joining a gym! Take your daily dose of calorie burn from the comfort of your home.
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer.
You can quickly find the most comfortable spot by turning the spring-loaded knob.
Top 5 Best Recumbent Ellipticals Reviewed
1. Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer — Top Pick
Roger Teeter started this company in 1981 to innovate fitness solutions for an active lifestyle. The best-selling recumbent elliptical trainers are part of their “Stabilization” series, which targets strength and recovery.
- Item Weight: 110 lbs
- Weight Limit: 300 lbs
- Workout Programs: Teeter Move App
- Color: Black
- Product Dimensions: 54” x 29” x 52.5”
- Display: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories
- Additional Features: Device Stand, Water Bottle Holder, Teeter Move App
The FreeStep is designed with a robust steel-tubing frame. Its pedals mimic a linear stepping action that's easy on the knees. You can scroll through 13-level resistance to amp up the challenge in your workouts. Also, the magnetic dial system doesn't contact the flywheel at any level, generating a whisper-quiet motion.
You won't have to turn up the volume to watch your favorite TV show. Since it carries a device holder, you can prop up your tablet or phone. It won't block the LCD from showing key stats one by one. Or you can simply relocate it anywhere in the home with the help of transport wheels.
photo by southeasternfitnessfla
You get plenty of adjustments! It has two sets of handles. One of them is fixed under the seat, allowing a legs-only workout. The other ones are movable. Use them alone for toning your arms, or with pedals for full-body cardio. These are also rotatable, emphasizing different muscle groups (e.g., biceps vs. triceps). Lastly, the seat is adjustable in height and recline. You can quickly find the most comfortable spot by turning the spring-loaded knob. Some users think it could use more padding and adjustability. However, you'll have to upgrade to a higher-end LT3 in that case.
LT1 is the best recumbent elliptical for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Positives:
A patented zero-impact stride tech
Easy to move around
Handles and seat are adjustable
Free access to Teeter Move library
Could be better:
Only 1-year frame warranty
2. Body Power 3-in-1 Trio Trainer — Runner-Up
It’s a budget brand of Body Flex, striving to maximize quality and value. We recommend this crosstrainer bike for anyone who needs a versatile piece of home gym equipment and doesn’t have much to spend.
- Item Weight: 72 lbs
- Weight Limit: 250 lbs
- Workout Programs: None
- Color: Gray/Red/Silver
- Product Dimensions: 43.7” x 62.2” x 29.13”
- Display: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Pulse
- Additional Features: Transport Wheels, Three Handlebars, 28-day Meal Plan by Leisa Hart
This recumbent elliptical bike is designed to provide multi-style training on a single platform. You hop on steppers, and it's elliptical. Sit down and grip the U-shaped handles for riding an upright bike. Or lean back to the backrest cushion while switching to upper pedals and wraparound handles at the seat base; you’re in for recumbent biking. What’s more surprising is that you don’t have to adjust or mount any hardware for transition. It’s seamless!
The U handles contain heart rate sensors. And the digital console records simple stats like distance covered and calories burned. The long handlebars can be removed if you're not doing upper-body exercise. The plush seat itself is dual-way adjustable.
photo by playitagainofallonil
Its flywheel is so heavy-duty that it resembles commercial-grade quality. Although it’s not as silent as Teeter FreeStep, it remains smooth throughout the movement. However, the resistance system fails to catch up. There is a knob to control the intensity. But the rubber strip isn't much of a challenge for the weighted flywheel. It makes sense for the population this elliptical is geared towards. You may not break a sweat. But it’s more than enough for a rehabilitation or a senior’s functional fitness program.
If you can’t figure out the assembly, this animated video is really helpful.
Positives:
Three machines in one frame
Hassle-free transition across movements
Compact and lightweight
A user-friendly digital console
Could be better:
High maintenance; requires frequent service
This recumbent elliptical cross trainer is also one of Body Flex’s unique trio trainers. You’d see improvements in overall construction and functions relative to Body Power’s model, but with a considerable price hike.
- Item Weight: 78 lbs (package dimension)
- Weight Limit: 250 lbs
- Workout Programs: None
- Color: Gray/Blue
- Product Dimensions: 57” x 25” x 63”
- Display: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Pulse
- Additional Features: Device Stand, Transport Wheels, Three Handlebars
Body Champ uses much more steel than plastic, adding to its durability. Still, the machine is light. You can easily shift it with rear wheels from one place to another. Its base is narrower than Body Power, which is a double-edged sword. More portable! Less stable, especially when it’s under heavy load!
You'll notice a major boost in the resistance system. It features an actual magnetic-encased flywheel. You still have to turn the knob. But there are eight different intensity levels. Nonetheless, a healthy adult will top out at its highest setting.
Many features are identical. You walk on pedals for elliptical training, sit forward on the seat to use it as a stationary bike, and recline for a recumbent. Each setting has dedicated handles; one is equipped with a heart rate sensor. Adjustments and display technology are similar. But the interface is quite small. It's not backlit. Thus, you may have a tough time tracking progress in dim light. There are four basic buttons: mode, reset, and up/down! On the brighter side, it comes with a built-in device holder.
The fact that we rank it below the Body Power crosstrainer bike has to do with the price tag. Minor changes have knocked its regular price out of the low grade. Secondly, the stated stride length of 18 inches appears to be an exaggeration.
Positives:
Allows versatile cardio at multiple resistances
Pulse sensor to facilitate calorie-burning targets
Electric brake for fluidity flywheel movement
A built-in device holder
Could be better:
Short stride can restrict elliptical to less than 6’ users
No upgrades for the display
ICON International owns ProForm and several other renowned brands, including iFIT. Therefore, you’ll get limited access to iFIT exclusive programs on purchasing its treadmills or trainers.
- Item Weight: 132 lbs
- Weight Limit: 350 lbs
- Workout Programs: 8 Elliptical and 8 Bike Workouts
- Color: Gray/Black
- Product Dimensions: 70.5” x 24.5” x 60.5”
- Display: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Pulse, Watt
- Additional Features: Water Bottle Holder, Device Stand, 30-day Premium iFIT Membership
It’s a 2-in-1 seated elliptical cross trainer. The optionality of riding it as a stationary bike doesn’t exist. Still, you can squeeze in quick cardio while seated or standing. The back support is made adjustable. Transitioning requires you to switch pedals. However, the recumbent follows more of a gliding pattern than a circular one, which is common in hybrid designs. There are two sets of handles. The large moving ones contain EKG Grip heart rate sensors.
Moreover, the bright LCD shows power output. You can adjust it for a better view. It’s not touchscreen-enabled, but has Bluetooth connectivity. You can slide in your device and enjoy on-demand classes from iFIT trainers. You’ll have to subscribe to a monthly or family plan in order to continue the membership. Small details – such as an iPod-compatible audio port, double speakers, and a bottle holder – come in handy!
photo by cherylann1166
ProForm also boasts a silent magnetic resistance (SMR) system. And Hybrid XT comes with a whopping 16 levels. Despite it being frictionless, you may sometimes hear squeaks and clicks. It has to do with its lightweight flywheel, which weighs 13 lbs – below average even for home-use recumbent stepper machines.
The price pays off in the shape of customer service. It has a 30-day money-back guarantee with 5-year support on frames and 90 days on moving parts. Most people find its assembly tricky. You can call in expert assemblers or extend the warranty for three years at an additional cost.
Positives:
16 preset workouts with the SMR system
Free iFIT membership
Extraordinary 350 lb of load capacity
Tiny, thoughtful add-ons like bottle and phone holders
Could be better:
Not straightforward assembly
Some iFIT features are locked during the free trial
Inspire is a well-known name in the fitness industry, especially regarding home gym equipment. They sell top-of-the-line products. Their cardio strider lineup of three models is no exception.
- Item Weight: 183 lbs
- Weight Limit: 300 lbs
- Workout Programs: 6 Full-Body and 2 Upper-Body Interval Programs
- Color: Black
- Product Dimensions: 60” x 35” x 50”
- Display: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories
- Additional Features: Water Bottle Holder, Device Stand, CENTR Subscription
It has numerous design cues of Teeter FreeStep. Made of a compact matte-back steel frame with a powder coat finish, its flywheel produces a silent and smooth motion due to a similar Poly V Belt. The battery-powered LCD is reliable with its basic metrics rating, as is the magnetic brake resistance. A media rack sits above for holding a phone, tablet, or magazine. The linear stride of pedals and four-way adjustable handles allow a full-body workout. With CS2.5, you also get a stable footrest if using handlebars alone. The seat can be moved up/down so that you comfortably reach the grip.
However, Inspire equipment is a heavy-duty and pricey choice. To justify the exorbitant price tag, you'll get a subscription to CENTR, the wellness training of Chris Hemsworth, along with the company's own app.
Furthermore, it has up to 20 resistance levels, thus a suitable recumbent cross trainer for seniors and young ones alike. You won't have to turn any knobs. Just press the plus/minus button from the console. There are eight cardio-resistance programs: Rolling Hill, Mountain Climb, Peak, Plateau, Hill Interval, Upper Body Focus, Arm Focus, and Strength Interval.
A product’s quality can be inferred from the support it comes with. Inspire Fitness gives a stellar warranty: 10 years on frame, 3 years on parts, and 1 year on labor. If you're searching for the best recumbent elliptical that might not have the best value for money but a long-lasting performance, this cardio strider deserves a look.
Positives:
Heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant built
Subscription of Thor’s CENTR App
Resistance changes from the monitor
10-year frame warranty
Could be better:
No heart rate sensor
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What Are the Benefits of Using Recumbent Ellipticals?
Long Usage, Less Exhaustion
The seated position of a recumbent cross-trainer allows you to focus on the workout. In contrast to a standard elliptical or upright bike, you get to recline and exercise your leg and arm muscles. As a result, you don't get drained before checking off your calorie budget.
Easier on the Back and Joints
Suitable for Seniors
What to Look For in Recumbent Ellipticals?
Stride
Check out the pedal motion first and foremost. A linear stride is zero-impact. More dynamic and gliding movements may be versatile. Also, the length of stride (distance a pedal covers) determines your workout experience. If you’re over 6’ tall, make sure to get one with at least 15” of stride.
Resistance
Resistance is the required energy to move pedals up and down. Go with variable resistances like the ones we listed in our recumbent cross trainer reviews. Also, the magnetic system is more effective than the felt rubber.
Seating
The seat is the biggest factor that differentiates a recumbent from a stationary bike or standard elliptical. Find one with adjustments, a swivel, and a lot of padding, so you comfortably operate the machine for hours.
Portability
Home-use equipment needs to be compact, lightweight, and transportable. Look for wheels and pick-up handles. But don’t sacrifice the durability of a recumbent elliptical. One good barometer is the weight limit. 300 lb is a good capacity.
Monitor
Your feedback in the console should be easy-to-read. Buy battery-powered models. Or else, you'll be vacating a spot near the power outlet. Having heart rate sensors and a phone holder is also a good sign. If you can have a button for resistance up there, it's the cherry on the cake.
Functions
A recumbent elliptical is itself a cross between a recumbent bike and an elliptical. You get the seating of the earlier and stride of the latter – a cozy combo. A lot of manufacturers are integrating multiple functions. You can use them as elliptical and stationary/recumbent bikes.
Price and Warranty
Cost is an important decision factor. You should conduct a price-performance analysis by weighing all the benefits against the price. Cross-trainers are a long-term investment. Thus, a decent warranty boosts overall value for money.
The warranty is usually divided between frame, parts, and labor. The steel frame is durable, so it comes with extended support. If you're spending about $1000, ensure replacement coverage for parts and technicians.
How to Use a Recumbent Elliptical Right?
Recumbent is a fairly easy-to-use machine. You hop on and start pedaling. But doing it in a way that supports your fitness goals requires a bit more attention.
Do´s
- Warm up and stretch out before kicking off the session. Otherwise, you might face cramping issues.
- Adjust the seat and handles to the optimal position. You shouldn't be leaning forward or dangling your feet.
- Target interval training. You can switch the resistance level yourself if there are no preset programs.
Dont´s
- Dive into assembly yourself. Most units weigh over 100 lbs. It's best to get a helping hand.
- Go at higher resistances early on. It can prove disastrous for your health and hydration.
Difference Between Standard Elliptical and Recumbent Elliptical
Position
The most significant difference is how you perform the exercise. You're supposed to stand up as you use a standard elliptical. However, the recumbent gives you a nice large seat to enjoy the workout comfortably.
Impact
Striding upright passes more pressure on your hips, knees, and ankles. When you're sitting, this impact is minimized to a great extent. Not to say it compromises the performance. This 2014 study recorded more activity in hamstrings with recumbent than a stationary bike.
Muscles Worked
As standard ellipticals have fixed handles, they only exercise your leg muscles, such as the glutes and hamstrings. But with the moving handle arms of a recumbent machine, you're simultaneously working out your deltoid and chest too.
Versatility
Recumbent ellipticals are also cross-trainers. Chances are you’ll find more machines in one frame, like a bike and glider. You don’t have this space-saving, value-maximizing feature with a standard elliptical.
FAQs
Are Recumbent Ellipticals Worth It?
A recumbent elliptical is the safest option out there for home workouts. You're still getting all the benefits: calorie burn, aerobic, strength, low impact, full-body muscle targeting, etc.
It's not only a wise purchase for senior or injured people, but also for active athletes who wouldn't mind comfortable cardio at the end of the day.
Which Is Better: Recumbent Bike or Recumbent Elliptical?
Both let you sit back and sweat it out. The pedal motion is where they part ways. Seated elliptical cross trainers fuse a recumbent bike's stable and comfortable posture with the elliptical's natural, low-impact, and stress-free stepping motion. It's best for people with limited mobility, joint disorders, or some injury. On the other hand, bikes can be more challenging.
Is It Ok to Ride a Recumbent Bike Every Day?
Sure! You can definitely ride a bike every day. It's like cycling outdoors. But make sure to consult your doctor beforehand.
Regular exercise is good for overall health, mood, and immunity. Exercise bikes provide a safer way to achieve these benefits with only a 10 km ride. You’re lucky if you have a recumbent elliptical bike. It's got a seat for back pain sufferers, low-impact motion for joint health, and handlebars for upper-body exercises.
Conclusion
After days of research, we picked five cross-trainers for our best recumbent elliptical reviews. Teeter FreeStep is the ultimate winner of price-performance analysis. It’ll help you stay in shape and avoid injuries for a long time.
What do you think is the finest cardio workout machine? Bike? Elliptical? Or a hybrid cross-trainer that works as both and occupies minimal space?
Also read:
References:
- Animation Assembly Video_Body Power Trio-Trainer 3 in 1 // youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMsZ5TBbUhI
- Elliptical Vs. Treadmill: Which Is Better For Your Bones? // Saveourbones:
https://saveourbones.com/elliptical-vs-treadmill-which-is-better-for-your-bones/?9317964618 - Sarcopenia With Aging // Webmd:
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/guide/sarcopenia-with-aging - Electromyography during pedaling on upright and recumbent ergometer // Pubmed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24567858/
- The Top 10 Benefits of Regular Exercise// Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-exercise
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships –105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.