The 7 Best Compact Ellipticals of 2023

Training on an elliptical can be an efficient and low-impact way to work both your upper body and lower body simultaneously. As effective as these machines can be, not every athlete has the space to accommodate these larger pieces of home gym equipment. Thankfully, the best compact ellipticals bring all the perks of a full-size elliptical to your space without taking up your whole training area.

As with any cardio machine, there are a few key questions you need to ask before deciding on a singular compact elliptical. How much space do you have to spare in your home? What are your personal fitness goals? Do you want a machine that’s simple in nature or one that’s more feature-rich? So, to give you a leg up in the process, we tested 16 of the top-performing machines, paced through mounds of research, and tapped outside customer reviews to curate the list of our favorite compact ellipticals available today.

The 7 Best Compact Ellipticals of 2023

• Best Compact Elliptical Overall: ProForm Pro HIIT H14
• Best Adjustable Compact Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer
• Best Compact Elliptical with a High Weight Capacity: Sole Fitness E25
• Best Compact Elliptical for Streaming: Bowflex Max Total 16
• Best Folding Compact Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902
• Best Quiet Compact Elliptical: FitNation Flex Elliptical Trainer
• Best Budget Compact Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine

How We Tested

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we considered a handful of components and factors when testing our assortment of compact ellipticals. Outside of our personal experience and enjoyment with each profile, we examined a number of metrics associated with each silhouette.

Naturally, we considered the overall product dimensions of each machine — can an elliptical really be labeled as compact exercise equipment if it devours your entire floor plan? These measurements also led us to look at the weight capacities and stride lengths of each profile since these specs can be affected by how large or small the elliptical is.

Of course, we also took note of training-focused metrics, such as available speeds and resistance levels. We didn’t want to sacrifice performance for the sake of a little extra walking space around our homes.

Other features like folding mechanisms for easier storage and (of course) price points were also influential. Now, let’s get ready and hop right into our findings.

Best Compact Elliptical Overall: ProForm Pro HIIT H14

Specs

• Price: $1,799
• Weight Capacity: 325lbs
• Stride Length: 10” Vertical, 5” Horizontal
• Resistance Levels: 26
• Product Dimensions: 52″ L x 29″ W x 66″ H

Pros

• The vertical design keeps this elliptical’s footprint to just 10.47 square feet.
• The iFit integration provides thousands of live and on-demand streaming fitness classes.
• This elliptical houses a Silent Magnetic Resistance system for quiet training sessions.

Cons

• The display console only supports iFit, so you can’t stream TV shows or other programs.
• Athletes wanting a more traditional stride may not enjoy this elliptical-stepper hybrid.
• Storing this elliptical in the garage can void the warranty.

The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 takes the top spot in this round-up thanks to its blend of performance, durability, and versatility. We’re big fans of the iFit integration across the 14-inch HD touchscreen, which gives you access to over 17,000 live and on-demand fitness classes. Plus, this is one of the most space-saving ellipticals thanks to its vertical design — the Pro HIIT H14 takes up just 10.47 square feet of space.

The vertical stride plane also allows you to move both upward as well as forward during training. This is why some may refer to the Pro HIIT H14 as a hybrid between an elliptical and a vertical climber. This vertical and horizontal motion can be an excellent option for athletes looking to strengthen their knees through low-impact training. Studies indicate that this vertical stair-stepping motion can lead to stronger knees over regular exercise. (1)

Our tester also noted that the Pro HIIT H14 was more than sturdy enough during training. They experienced no jostling or movement as they paced through their workouts. This can be attributed to the durable 325-pound weight capacity and oversized leveling feet. They also gave kudos to the heavier 30-pound flywheel, which helped create a rock-solid, grounded sensation during sessions.

That 30-pound flywheel is also noteworthy for its lack of noise during use. The heavier weight can help dampen vibrations during movement, whereas other industry standard flywheels weighing between 16 and 20 pounds can lead to audible hums and shakes. The Silent Magnetic Resistance system also helps the Pro HIIT H14 retain its low noise output, making it an excellent pick for athletes looking to train in a shared space.

Be mindful, though, that this compact elliptical does weigh 224 pounds, so getting this machine up a flight of stairs can be a challenge. Additionally, we strongly advise against keeping the Pro HIIT H14 in your garage gym, as the brand will void the warranty coverage if the elliptical is stored in such conditions. Be sure you have enough room in your actual home to ensure you’re covered by the 10-year frame, two-year parts, and one-year labor package.

Best Adjustable Compact Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer

Specs

• Price: $1,999
• Weight Capacity: 375lbs
• Stride Length: 32”
• Resistance Levels: 26
• Product Dimensions: 58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H

Pros

• The 32-inch Auto-Adjustable Stride allows you to quickly transition between gliding strides and upward steps.
• SmartAdjust technology automatically changes your settings when following along with trainer-led iFit workouts.
• The 375-pound weight capacity is one of the most accommodating ranges we’ve tested.

Cons

• The $1,999 price tag may be less approachable for athletes on a budget.
• Our tester said transitioning between stride types mid-workout takes some practice.
• This elliptical weighs 284 pounds, which limits its portability.

The 32-inch stride length featured in this impressive rig from NordicTrack is well beyond the typical 16- to 20-inch ranges showcased in other ellipticals. This available range allows you to adjust for a wide array of athlete heights and stride lengths. However, NordicTrack adds another layer of adjustability to the build with the addition of the Auto-Adjustable Stride feature.

When adjusting your stride length and plane, the machine will match your steps to accommodate elliptical glides, vertical stair stepping, and even treadmill running. While our tester did note that facilitating such changes takes some getting used to — you need to have a certain rhythm so the machine doesn’t work against your physical movement — having the ability to run, glide, and climb across one profile is convenient.

Additionally, we enjoy how hands-off the resistance and incline adjustments are when following along to trainer-led iFit workouts. Thanks to the SmartAdjust technology, these settings are automatically toggled in tandem with your workouts, so there’s no fussing with the 10-inch HD touchscreen to match your instruction or terrain.

There’s also a good sense of stability with this compact fitness machine. The frame is sturdy, according to our tester, and they felt no sense of play when training. Plus, the 375-pound weight capacity is one of the highest we’ve seen in the category, indicating a strong frame. 

All that brawn comes with a hefty product weight, though — 284 pounds, to be exact. This means that transporting the FS10i Freestride Trainer can take some doing. Additionally, the footprint is 11.98 square feet, which may be too cumbersome for a single person to move on their own. Because of this, our tester recommends having a helping hand (or three) at the ready if you need to move this machine from one room to the next.

Read our full NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer Review.

Best Compact Elliptical with a High Weight Capacity: Sole Fitness E25

Specs

• Price: $1,199.99
• Weight Capacity: 350lbs
• Stride Length: 20”
• Resistance Levels: 20
• Product Dimensions: 70″ L x 24″ W x 70″ H

Pros

• The 350-pound weight capacity is more accommodating than other compact ellipticals.
• Sole backs this machine with an impressive warranty, including lifetime coverage for the frame and flywheel.
• 20 resistance levels and inclines up to 20 percent can allow for new, unique challenges in each training session.

Cons

• The 70-inch machine length is larger than other compact ellipticals.
• Taller athletes may need a stride length longer than 20 inches.
• Those wanting a touchscreen display might be underwhelmed by the LCD display.

Larger athletes need a compact elliptical that not only supports their fitness goals, but their actual physiques, too. The Sole Fitness E25 is capable of accommodating users up to 350 pounds, creating a more inclusive silhouette that can be enjoyed by a variety of athletes.

The E25 pairs an impressive 20-inch stride length to its durable frame, which caters to a good range of athlete heights, as well. However, this still may be too short for taller athletes. While there is no gold standard for elliptical stride lengths, a 20-inch plane of motion should fit athletes between 5’3” and 6’0”. (2)

Additionally, our tester noted that this elliptical has a smooth operation thanks to its 20-pound flywheel, and navigating the available settings is a breeze across the center console and convenient toggles at the handles. The E25 has 20 resistance levels to choose from, along with an incline range of up to 20 percent.

Budget-conscious individuals will also appreciate the cheaper price tag tied to this compact elliptical. At just under $1,200, it’s one of the more affordable ellipticals we found during our testing trials. For reference, regular ellipticals can easily cost over $1,400. Additionally, you get excellent support for your machine thanks to the brand’s extensive warranty package. The E25 boasts lifetime coverage for the frame and flywheel, along with two-year coverage for parts and wear items, as well as one-year coverage for labor.

Finally, the Sole Fitness E25 has a footprint measuring 11.67 square feet. This definitely keeps it in the “compact” conversation, but you get a bunch of that space-saving aesthetic through the machine’s thinner 24-inch width. This silhouette is still 70 inches long and cannot fold up, so you’ll need a swath of space at least six and a half feet long to house the E25 while also granting enough space surrounding the equipment for unhindered operation.

Read our full Sole Fitness E25 Review.

Best Compact Elliptical for Streaming: Bowflex Max Total 16

Specs

• Price: $2,499
• Weight Capacity: 300lbs
• Stride Length: N/A
• Resistance Levels: 20
• Product Dimensions: 49.3″ L x 30.8″ W x 65.7″ H

Pros

• This elliptical is integrated with the JRNY platform, which allows you to stream workouts, tv shows, and other forms of entertainment.
• The 16-inch HD touchscreen can provide excellent picture clarity during training.
• The vertical design and 10.54-square-foot footprint can be ideal for athletes training in tight quarters.

Cons

• The three-year warranty on the frame and parts is lower than other ellipticals.
• Budget-minded athletes may not like the near-$2,500 price tag.
• There are only four built-in workouts, so a JRNY subscription is practically required.

Want to pair your low-impact workouts with your favorite tv show or a library of trainer-led workouts? We recommend the Max Total 16 from Bowflex. The JRNY-integrated 16-inch display console provides an excellent picture whether following along with your go-to instructor or catching up on that can’t-miss Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video series you’ve been binging as of late.

Additionally, we like how expansive the JRNY library is when it comes to the variety of workouts offered. Naturally, there are classes dedicated to the Max Total 16 profile, but you also have options for yoga, pilates, bodyweight training, and other fitness disciplines. Additionally, the subscription is more affordable than other online workout programs, with plans starting at $11.99 per month.

We also appreciate this elliptical’s vertical design. Rather than having you move in a solely forward plane of motion, the Max Total guides you through vertical and horizontal movements, essentially creating a stepper-elliptical hybrid. Plus, that vertical design does wonders for keeping this silhouette nice and compact at just 10.54 square feet.

During trials, our tester also enjoyed the six available handles at the upper end of this impressive profile. Not only does this engage your upper body during training, but it also offers a refreshing sense of comfort since you’re not locked into a singular position during your sessions.

Unfortunately, though, we found that you practically need this added membership to get the most out of the Max Total 16. The machine only comes equipped with four pre-programmed workout modules — Manual, Fat Burn, Calorie Burn, and Stairs — so if you favor that guidance in your workouts, you’ll need to factor in the extra cost. Combined with this elliptical’s $2,499 price tag, that may be too rich for some athletes.

Read our full Bowflex Total Max 16 Review.

Best Folding Compact Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902

Specs

• Price: $129.99
• Weight Capacity: 220lbs
• Stride Length: 30”
• Resistance Levels: N/A
• Product Dimensions: 19″ L x 25″ W x 57″ H

Pros

• This elliptical can fold up to 1.98 square feet for easier storage.
• The 30-inch stride length can accommodate taller athletes with longer gaits.
• The sub-$130 price tag is one of the most affordable options we’ve tested.

Cons

• This elliptical can only support athletes up to 220 pounds.
• There are no added resistance levels on this compact cardio machine.
• The one-year frame warranty and 180-day coverage on other parts and components is very low for an elliptical.

While all of the compact ellipticals can be convenient profiles for athletes tight on space, this SF-E902 profile from Sunny Health and Fitness takes space saving to another dimension. When in operation, this elliptical consumes 3.30 square feet of space, but when folded up for storage, that footprint shrinks to just 1.98 square feet.

We also appreciate the lightweight, 35-pound steel alloy frame used within this profile. This makes toting the SF-E902 from room to room a breeze and allows for easier clean-up once your workouts are done. Naturally, though, a frame this light can be compromised with heavier stresses. This compact elliptical is only rated for athletes up to 220 pounds.

While the weight capacity may limit who can utilize this machine, that same exclusivity isn’t present when it comes to stride length. The SF-E902 boasts an impressive 30-inch stride range, which can be ideal for athletes taller than 6’0”.

This Sunny Health and Fitness elliptical also earns our praise thanks to its approachable price point. This machine costs less than $130, and you can often find it discounted through online retailers. This is a particularly nice touch, given the fact that the warranty is somewhat lacking when it comes to coverage. The frame is only warrantied for one year, while other parts and components are covered for just 180 days.

There’s also no resistance mechanism to up the ante when it comes to your workouts. If you need that added sense of challenge, we recommend opting for another silhouette. If you don’t mind relying on your willpower to generate intensity, though, our tester said this can be an effective tool — and others happily agree. “I love this bare-bones elliptical. I use it for when I need to get in a bit more workout and can’t be bothered to go out,” says one customer review.

Best Quiet Compact Elliptical: FitNation Flex Elliptical Trainer

Specs

• Price: $350.36
• Weight Capacity: 260lbs
• Stride Length: 18”
• Resistance Levels: 8
• Product Dimensions: 37″ L x 20″ W x 55.9″ H

Pros

• The magnetic resistance mechanism keeps the operation nearly silent.
• This elliptical features a simple, multi-function display capable of tracking time, speed, distance, and calories burned.
• A built-in handle and front wheels make moving this machine less of a hassle.

Cons

• The 18-inch stride length may not accommodate taller athletes.
• A one-year limited warranty provides less coverage than other ellipticals.
• Some customers have had issues replacing batteries in the display console.

Despite their small statures, compact ellipticals can still provide plenty of bark and noise when it comes to a low-impact workout. Rather than drowning out your headphones (or irritating your housemates) each time you hop on for a session, we recommend this Flex Elliptical Trainer from FitNation. The magnetic flywheel keeps every movement to a meager hum, regardless of which resistance you train across the eight available settings.

We also appreciate the simple display console that can keep tabs on your basic metrics in real-time. You can easily view your time, speed, distance, and calories burned as you glide through a given workout. We did notice, though, that access to the battery power source is a little finicky — and others agree. “The battery box is a little hard to open, but other than that, it’s a good machine,” says one customer review.

The Flex Elliptical Trainer is also a good pick for athletes tight on space thanks to its 5.14-square-foot footprint, which is one of the smallest we’ve found in testing. There’s also a built-in handle at the rear and wheels in the front for added portability and convenience when moving this elliptical around your space.

To achieve such a space-saving footprint, however, FitNation did need to limit this machine’s stride length to just 18 inches. This may be too confined of a gait for taller athletes over six feet tall. Additionally, the Flex Elliptical Trainer can only support individuals up to 260 pounds, which is less inclusive than other profiles out there.

Best Budget Compact Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine

Specs

• Price: $499
• Weight Capacity: 260lbs
• Stride Length: 9” Vertical, 5” Horizontal
• Resistance Levels: 8
• Product Dimensions: 44″ L x 25″ W x 64″ H

Pros

• The $499 price tag is very approachable, and we’ve routinely found this elliptical even more discounted online.
• This elliptical has a small 7.64-square-foot footprint — one of the most compact profiles we’ve tested.
• The stepper-elliptical hybrid model saves space by giving you two machines in one.

Cons

• This machine can only support athletes weighing up to 260 pounds.
• Some athletes may prefer a machine with more than eight resistance levels.
• The 13-pound flywheel is lighter than other ellipticals, which can lead to louder operation.

Thanks to their smaller profiles, compact ellipticals can often be cheaper than their larger brethren. While other profiles may feature lower prices, in our opinion, the Sunny Health and Fitness Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine can provide the best value in the category because of its small footprint, hybrid design, and included display — factors not typically found in cheaper ellipticals. Plus, we’ve often found this machine discounted online, which can significantly add to the savings, as well.

We appreciate how this elliptical utilizes its vertical design to save you space in two ways. For one, it combines the motion planes of both an elliptical and a stair climber, essentially combining two machines in one. Additionally, the entire profile takes up 7.64 square feet of space, which is a definite win when trying to add this machine to a living room, bedroom, or other furniture-dwelling space.

In testing, we found that assembling the machine is simple, despite the abundance of parts. We attribute this to the clear, easy-to-read instruction manual. “It came quickly and was very easy to put together. I did it by myself,” adds one positive customer review.

This compact elliptical also boasts a simple yet detailed monitor capable of tracking your Scan, time, RPM, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse. Other features include a calendar and clock readout, along with room temperature.

We do wish, though, that this Sunny Health and Fitness elliptical featured a heavier flywheel. While we appreciated the eight available resistance levels that offer a good sense of intensity for training, the 13-pound mechanism is lighter than the typical 16 to 20-pound components often seen in these machines. This can lead to louder operations and more vibration during high-intensity sessions.

Finally, we recommend larger athletes pay close attention to the listed weight capacity of this machine. The Sunny Health and Fitness Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine can only support athletes up to 260 pounds, which may be too low of a range for some.

How We Chose the Best Compact Ellipticals

Determining which compact treadmills stand out from the crowd may seem simple — just look for the smallest profile, right? Well, like any piece of cardio equipment, there are a few additional layers that go into finding the best silhouettes. These are the factors we considered when curating this guide.

Footprint and Size

For an elliptical to be labeled as “compact,” it needs to be smaller than a traditional machine. Ellipticals typically measure 72 inches long by 32 inches wide, which equates to 15 square feet. (3) So, we sought out worthwhile profiles featuring a smaller footprint. The compact ellipticals in this guide range in size from 3.30 square to 11.67 square feet.

We also took each elliptical’s portability into consideration. If a design featured a lightweight frame that could be easily moved for storage conveniences, we made note of it in our research. Foldable designs were also sought out for this reason, as these can be excellent for athletes who need to keep their training spaces as multifaceted as possible. 

Weight Capacity

A piece of fitness equipment needs to be able to support your physique. After all, there’s no sense in purchasing machines that will break or become damaged after the first session. In our testing, we experienced a good range of weight capacities across compact ellipticals, with many of the top-performing profiles capable of supporting loads between 220 and 375 pounds. Other weight capacities (both lower and higher) were considered, but this was the range that hashed out at the end of our findings.

We did notice, though, that ellipticals with lower weight capacities often showcased more portable frames. While they weren’t ideal for larger athletes, they could be worthwhile for those who often train in various rooms around their homes. Larger, more durable builds were more accommodating but often required a static placement, given their increased weight.

Resistance Levels

Having a variety of resistance levels at your disposal can allow you to change up your training intensity for progressive overload over time. Mixing in new challenges over your training regimen can be an ideal way to support muscle growth and cardiovascular performance. (4)

For this guide, we looked at compact ellipticals offering resistance ranges between zero and 26. We found that larger resistance ranges were often paired with sturdier frames and higher price tags, given the training potential of each profile. Machines without added resistance levels were still worthwhile, but they were highly dependent on our willpower and personal abilities to push our bodies to various paces and durations.

Stride Length

An elliptical’s stride length can affect your in-training comfort. Too short, and you can feel cramped while operating the machine. Too long, and you may feel like you’re stretching too far to complete a revolution. In our research, we found that ellipticals featuring a 20-inch stride length were the most accommodating for individuals. (2) 

Although this was the most common measurement found in our trials, we understand that stride length correlates to height — shorter individuals have shorter strides, and vice versa. To accommodate more athlete’s needs, we’ve included ellipticals with stride lengths ranging between 18 and 32 inches. 

We also included a handful of vertically designed profiles that combine the horizontal motion planes of an elliptical with the climbing experience of a stair stepper. For these machines, we found that a five-inch horizontal length was ideal, along with vertical ranges of motion between nine and 10 inches.

Benefits of Compact Ellipticals

Like their larger counterparts, compact ellipticals can be great for facilitating calorie-burning sweat sessions with lower impact across your joints. Outside of their space-saving qualities, there are other advantages that can come with adding one of these machines to your home training setup.

Easier Storage

Let’s start with the obvious — compact ellipticals are smaller than your traditional machines. This smaller makeup can be ideal for athletes dealing with less available space. Plus, some compact ellipticals also fold for easier storage. When your workouts are complete, you can simply fold up these profiles and tuck them under furniture, in a nearby closet, or off in a corner to keep your abode as clutter-free as possible.

Low-Impact Training

Like other ellipticals, compact treadmills are also excellent for low-impact training needs. You’re in constant contact with the machine itself as you glide through strides. This means there’s less room for gravity and downward force to impact your joints and comfort in a given workout.

Additionally, compact ellipticals can be a fantastic option for athletes wanting to generate positive caloric burn during workouts. Studies have shown that athletes weighing 155 pounds can burn, on average, up to 324 calories in a 30-minute training session. (5) For reference, that’s more than what the same athlete would experience in a moderate 30-minute session on a rowing machine (252 calories), as well as what they’d burn in a vigorous workout on a stationary bike (278 calories). (5)

Cost Effectiveness

Compact ellipticals can also be a good option for budget-minded athletes. You can often find these machines at lower price points because they don’t take as much material to make and don’t have as much space available for costly bells and whistles.

Now, this isn’t to say that all compact ellipticals are cheap — there are still some expensive options out there, including in this round-up — but if you’re looking to save some coin in your fitness buying process, you’re more likely to find a reasonable option with a compact profile over a bulkier, more traditional silhouette.

Compact Vs. Regular Ellipticals

If you’re looking to compare compact ellipticals to regular ellipticals, there are no true differences when it comes to the performance of either machine. Both can deliver excellent low-impact workouts. Both can offer a range of resistances and inclines for varied training. The main difference between these two profiles, naturally, is their footprint. 

Regular ellipticals typically take up 15 square feet of space. (3) This means you can save anywhere from three to nearly 12 square feet of flooring just by opting with one of the compact picks in this guide.

Of course, your equipment’s size can influence a handful of factors, including its portability and price. Thankfully, though, the training potential and low-impact nature of your workouts won’t be affected by how large your equipment is. 

How to Choose the Best Compact Ellipticals

Buying a compact elliptical is more involved than finding a machine that fits within your available space. Below are a handful of factors to consider when adding a profile to your cart.

Equipment Footprint

As you can expect, compact ellipticals are smaller than your traditional elliptical. That said, you can still find “compact” profiles that are too big for your space. When looking for an ideal machine for your needs, be sure to break out the tape measure and determine how much square footage you have at your disposal. Compact ellipticals can typically require roughly three to 12 square feet of space.

We also recommend leaving a few inches at the front and sides of your available floor space, as this can make it easier to get on and off the machine for training. This extra wiggle room can also alleviate any potential problems or hemmed-in feelings across the machine’s range of motion — no bumping into furniture or other structures with each completed revolution.

Storage and Portability

Compact ellipticals also have a tendency to be lighter than their larger counterparts, which can be great for moving your machine from room to room. If you prefer to mix up your surroundings with each training session, be sure to look for a profile with a listed weight that you can comfortably tote around your house — likely 45 pounds and below. It can also be helpful to look for profiles with added front wheels or built-in handles for easier maneuvering, especially if the machine weight is higher than what you can comfortably handle.

If you’re really looking to save space when you’re between workouts, you can also look for a compact elliptical that folds up for more convenient storage. These silhouettes can be effective tools for athletes living in apartments, too, as they can be tucked away while not in use, leaving your training space freed up for more daily activities.

Resistance Levels

Your machine’s available resistance levels can dictate how intense and varied your workouts are from session to session. When looking for a compact elliptical for your needs, make sure to take your fitness goals into account and look for a profile that can support your intended training intensity. Some athletes may prefer a large range — think 20 and above — that pushes their sessions with plenty of challenging resistance, while others can get by on willpower alone with more simplified structures.

Weight Capacity

In training, you’re going to be placing your entire body weight on your machine, so it’s vital that you opt for a compact treadmill that can support your mass without failure. Look at your elliptical’s listed weight capacity and contrast that to your weight. Most compact ellipticals can support loads between 220 and 375 pounds.

It’s important to note, though, that ellipticals with higher weight capacities are typically heavier machines in general. This can limit their portability significantly, so if you need a machine that moves easily around your abode, you may want to consider a less bulky profile.

Stride Length

Your stride length refers to how long your machine’s range of motion is. Your personal stride length is dictated by your height — shorter athletes take shorter steps, while taller athletes have longer gaits. When searching for your perfect compact treadmill, make sure that the stride length is long enough to create a comfortable range of motion during training. 

While there’s no gold standard for stride lengths among machines, you can typically get by with profiles featuring a 20-inch range of motion. This can be ideal for most athletes between 5’3” and 6’0”. (2) If you’re taller than 6’0”, you may want to consider a longer stride length, while shorter athletes may prefer a range between 11 and 16 inches. (2)

Price

Typically, compact ellipticals will be cheaper than larger devices, given their smaller footprint and less tech-heavy designs. That said, you’re still capable of finding luxe profiles offering sturdy frames and tons of features. We’ve seen compact ellipticals as cheap as $130 and as expensive as $2,500, for example.

When it comes to determining your optimal compact elliptical, make sure your budget matches your chosen machine. If your elliptical is integrated with an online workout program, it’s also wise to calculate that extra subscription into your purchase. These services can range in price, likely $25 to $40 per month, so make sure you’re capable of keeping up with membership dues to help you get the most out of your new fitness equipment.

Final Word

Compact ellipticals can be an excellent way to add low-impact training to your confined workout space. These impressive machines can deliver similar workouts to their larger counterparts without the required room. Additionally, some profiles even fold up for added storage conveniences, making them great picks for apartment-dwelling athletes.

When looking for an ideal profile for your needs, make sure to consider the available space, along with your personal height and weight. Your body measurements can help you determine how long of a stride length you need in your machine for in-training comfort, as well as how high of a weight capacity you should opt for to help preserve the integrity of the profile throughout your fitness journey. Once you have these metrics in order, take a gander at our favorite profiles listed above and get ready to add a new layer to your cardio regimen.

FAQs

References

1. Choi, M., Yoo, J., Shin, S., & Lee, W. (2015). The effects of Stepper exercise with visual feedback on strength, walking, and stair climbing in individuals following stroke. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 27(6), 1861–1864.
2. Bueckert, S. (2021, May 19). What is the ideal elliptical stride length to best fit you?. Sunny Health and Fitness. https://sunnyhealthfitness.com/blogs/products/best-elliptical-stride-length
3. Loria, K., & Krajeski, J. (2023, April 24). How to choose an elliptical. Consumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org/health/ellipticals/buying-guide/
4. Plotkin, D., Coleman, M., Van Every, D., Maldonado, J., Oberlin, D., Israetel, M., Feather, J., Alto, A., Vigotsky, A. D., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2022). Progressive overload without progressing load? the effects of load or repetition progression on muscular adaptations. PeerJ, 10.
5. Calories burned in 30 minutes of leisure and routine activities. Harvard Health. (2021, March 8). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights
6. Kim, J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 30(1), 20–31.

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