Sleds are also expensive, and with so many options on the market, you should feel confident in your choice. Our team of personal trainers tested and researched the best weight sleds and picked their favorites to reduce your decision fatigue. From the best speed sled to a budget sled to something called the Dreadmill, our picks are below. 

The Best Weight Sleds of 2024

• Best Overall Weight Sled: REP Fitness Push-Pull Sled
• Best Budget Weight Sled: Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled
• Best Treadmill-Sled Combo: Bells of Steel Dreadmill
• Best Wheelbarrow Sled: Freak Athlete Wheelbarrow Sled
• Best Sprint/Speed Sled: Shogun Sports Multipurpose Sled
• Best Prowler Sled: Rogue Echo Dog Sled
• Most Versatile Weight Sled: Torque Fitness Torque Tank M1

How We Tested and Chose the Best Weighted Sleds

The BarBend team consists of certified personal trainers, nutritionists, and competitive strength athletes. We’ve tested more than 10 different weight sleds, not to mention pieces of equipment with sled functionality, in our search for the best products in this category. You can learn more about our process by reading the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Resistance Type: Sleds are typically loaded with weight plates, which most home gym owners already possess, or via magnetic resistance. Both are fine, though magnetic resistance is more convenient and quieter (albeit more expensive). We included both types of sleds on our list. 
• Weight Capacity: When making our picks, we emphasized weight-loaded sleds capable of supporting between 400 and 500 additional pounds, which should be more than enough weight for most users. 
• Durability: Since sleds get beat up more than most home gym equipment, durability was a major consideration. You’ll drag and push it across gravel, asphalt, concrete, and grass, so we looked for models with steel builds and, in particular models, tires that can handle several different types of terrain. 
• Noise: Sleds are loud. If you plan on buying a sled with skis and using it on your street or in your driveway, you will make a lot of noise. When making our picks, we looked for sleds that have plastic-bottom skis (or the option to add them on) for noise reduction. 
• Footprint: Sleds command a moderate amount of space, so we made sure to include a selection of sleds with smaller frames and/or sleds that can be stored vertically with a wall mount. 

Best Overall Weight Sled: REP Fitness Push-Pull Sled

REP Fitness Push-Pull Sled

REP Fitness Push-Pull Sled

REP Fitness' versatile Push-Pull Sled is made from sturdy powder-coated steel that can stand up to heavy use. The sled itself weighs 75 pounds and is compatible with 2-inch Olympic iron or bumper plates.

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The REP Fitness Push-Pull sled is what you picture when someone says “weight sled.” This traditional sled, which is triangular in design, supports three different pushing angles with a pair of removable uprights and pulling exercises with a trio of eyebolts on the front. It’s reasonably priced, extremely durable, and delivers exactly what you expect from a traditional sled.

If you’ve ever used a sled, you’re probably familiar with this design. You load up some of the best weight plates from your rack on two large poles on the back of the sled, then assume your pushing or pulling position. You can push the sled using the two vertical poles (which keep you more upright) or bend over to use the two vertical bars attached to the front of the sled. 

Our tester, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Alex Polish, scored the sled’s functionality a 4.5 out of 5. “I don’t have access to a turf surface, and I was nervous that it wouldn’t perform well (or worse, make nails-on-chalkboard sounds) on the concrete in our long driveway. No such trouble!” they say. “The small grinding sound isn’t unpleasant or scratchy by any means; no scratches on the concrete; and it even handles cracks without much interruption.”

Steel-bottomed skis are included, but you’ll need to shell out an extra $40 for skis with plastic bottoms, which are preferred when using the sled on turf, grass, or the flooring of your home gym. 

Polish does note that they wish it was “easier to pull without a leash, belt, or other attachment.” Also, the included wrench for bolt-tightening was a pain. “Assembly was a 3 out of 5 for me. I didn’t love the included wrench to tighten the bolts, so I wound up breaking out my own,” they say. 

Overall, though, Polish scores their workout experience with the sled a 4.5 out of 5, specifically noting how easily the sled turns on concrete.

[Related: Must Do Push/Pull and Leg Day Exercises]

Best Budget Weight Sled: Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled

Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled

Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled

The Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled comes with a 10-foot leash to help you build explosive strength and speed. The sled itself weighs just 37 pounds, but can hold up to 500 pounds of Olympic-sized weight plates.

Shop Titan Fitness

Pulling a sled builds immense quad strength, can strengthen the muscles around your knee joints, and bolster your coordination. We like Titan’s pull sled for its portable, minimalist design, 10-foot leash, and reasonable price tag. A sled with a 500-pound weight capacity for under $100? Score. 

The major downside? “This is solely a pull sled, meaning you cannot push the weight without really compromising your positioning,” says tester and BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger. That said, it’s worth pointing out the many benefits of sled pulls.

The sled itself is almost 2 square feet, complete with a foldable pole that you can load weight plates onto. Once loaded, you’ll grab the included nylon leash and begin pulling it by either walking backward or securing the strap to your waist (for which you’ll need a specialized belt or harness).

Emminger scored its functionality and adjustability 4.5 out of 5 and a 5 out of 5, respectively. “The loading pin was sturdy enough to hold multiple plates at once, and the lockable pinion at its base was deep enough below the bracket to not interfere with plate balance,” he says. “I had no issues with the 10-foot leash and appreciated the wide-open connection point where you clip the leash to the sled. This means you can easily clip a carabiner to the sled if you already own a harness or want to train with a shorter leash.”

Without plastic skis, Emminger recommends this sled for turf or grass workouts. “The sled pulled smoothly across turf and grass, but the steel silhouette does make for a loud workout tool when used on concrete or asphalt,” he says. 

Emminger scored his overall workout experience with the sled a 4 out of 5. “The sled is plenty durable given its 11-gauge steel makeup, and I do appreciate how easy it is to break the profile down for easier storage and portability,” he says. “However, I do wish there were skis at the bottom of the sled that would allow for easier sliding across rougher terrain. It can get really noisy when pulled on concrete.”

Best Treadmill-Sled Combo: Bells of Steel Dreadmill

Bells of Steel Dreadmill

Bells of Steel Dreadmill

This three-in-one machine operates as a manual incline treadmill, farmer walk, and sled push. Utilize its magnetic resistance to amp up the challenge, then fold it up to clear up some floor space when not in use.  

Shop Bells of Steel

Don’t pass out from sticker shock just yet. The Dreadmill is a treadmill first that lets you mimic sled pushes, sled drags, and farmer’s carries — so you’re getting a multi-functional cardio machine. Is this machine for everyone? No. However, if you want a machine that uniquely marries resistance training and conditioning, this may be the product for you. 

Let’s start with what we liked. The Dreadmill earned high marks for its design and build — 4.5 out of 5 for construction, 4.5 out of 5 for durability, and 4 out of 5 for assembly. “All together, assembly took two hours,” our tester said. “Everything came well packaged in one large box. You might want to have a hand truck available to move it to where you want to assemble it.” Our tester does note that it may be helpful to have a friend help you assemble it, though it’s not necessary.

Let’s focus on the sled feature since that’s why you’re here. It’s OK. We like that you can lean your full weight into the shoulder pads and that the manual treadmill lets you walk and run more fluidly at your own pace. Conversely, people over 6 feet may have trouble fitting into the frame comfortably. 

[Related: Sled Push Alternatives]

Most notably, another one of our testers says that the push sled resistance is just too light. “The reality is, the resistance isn’’t great,” they say. “If you’re just getting this to replace sled pushes, this isn’t it.” That said, our tester notes that this machine has other functions that make it worth the price, namely that the Dreadmill is excellent for sled drags (walking backward).

Overall, the Dreadmill is a great training tool for increasing your daily step count and adding load to your walks. However, if you’re looking for a pure sled to push, we suggest looking elsewhere. 

Best Wheelbarrow Sled: Freak Athlete Wheelbarrow Sled

Freak Athlete Wheelbarrow Sled

Freak Athlete Wheelbarrow Sled

Perform sled pushes and sled pulls before taking advantage of this versatile profile's wheelbarrow functionality, which can help strengthen your core and forearms. Also cool? It can fold up vertically when not in use. 

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Freak Athlete’s unique design lets you push and pull this sled and carry it like a wheelbarrow to target different muscles and improve grip strength. It comes pre-assembled (mostly), includes weight spacers and a strap (for pulling), and supports four pushing positions. 

There’s a lot to like about this sled, specifically in how it allows you to work a variety of muscle groups, from the quads, glutes, and hamstrings to the forearms and core. You can push it in four unique positions (high and low with a vertical or horizontal grip), you can move it like a wheelbarrow thanks to the foldable wheel, or you can use the included strap to drag it. 

One feature we love is that the sled is encased by a thin metal rail. You clip the strap to the rail, and then you can move freely around the sled to change direction instead of having to unclip or turn the sled around.

The handles and wheels are easy to clip in and out and adjust. When you’re done using the sled, you can fold the handles inward and store the sled vertically. As a bonus, the Wheelbarrow Sled has additional wheels that make transporting it a breeze. 

This sled comes pre-assembled, save for the wrap-around rail. You’ll spend just minutes putting this together, and all the necessary tools are included. 

The sled costs around $400, though it’s occasionally on sale for roughly $300. That’s a nice discount, but it’s still more than many people are probably willing to pay for a specialty piece of equipment. Also, the plastic-bottom skis (which can be used on most surfaces) must be replaced every two years on average.

Best Sprint/Speed Sled: Shogun Sports Multi-Purpose Sled

Shogun Sports Multipurpose Sled

Shogun Sports Multipurpose Sled

This Shogun weight sled prides itself on its compact profile. It's tough as hell, too, with a body forged from powder-coated carbon steel and 11-gauge steel posts. The sled also comes with a set of pre-installed UHMW skis. 

Shop Shogun

Sled work is common among athletes looking to increase their power production. Sprinting against a load builds your running muscles in the exact manner you intend to use them. The Shogun Multi-Purpose sled is an excellent pick for folks looking to run speed and sprinting drills with a sled. It’s compact, has minimal-friction skis, and can be used in both push and pull workouts. 

The skis on the sled have plastic bottoms, so they can be easily dragged across various surfaces, such as concrete, grass, and turf without making too much of a racket. It’s constructed with 11-gauge steel and has four post holes, so you can easily move the handles to the other side of the sled to change direction. The included plastic skis work to reduce unwanted sound when dragged across gravel or the floor of your garage gym.

But this multi-sled is expensive. If you want the belt, leash, and wrap-around rail — which allows you to easily change direction when pulling the sled — you’ll need to shell out an additional $200. Some folks may dislike the small size of the sled, though that’s a personal preference and doesn’t affect its functionality.

Best Prowler Sled: Rogue Echo Dog Sled

Rogue Echo Dog Sled

Rogue Echo Dog Sled

The base of the Rogue Echo Dog Sled is a single piece of 0.25-inch plate steel with only four welds, making it one of the most compact and efficient weight sleds we've come across. Don't discount its toughness, though — the 17-inch weight post has an impressive load capacity of 450 pounds.

Shop Rogue

Rogue’s Echo Dog Sled is our pick for the best prowler sled thanks to its design and construction. The Ohio-based company is known for its manufacturing quality, and the Echo Dog Sled is a good example why. We admire how it’s made from a single piece of 0.25-inch steel with welding marks only on the corner sockets of the upright poles. 

You can purchase plastic skis, which reduce the friction felt during push and pull exercises. However, those will cost an additional $70, and some reviews note that they wear out relatively quickly. As such, we’d recommend using this sled on grass or turf rather than concrete. 

The sled only comes with two push poles. Anything else you may want will cost you extra, and, in familiar Rogue fashion, none of the extras are cheap. The 16-foot sled strap is $25; the 100-foot pulling rope is $115; and the Alpaca Sled pan and handle kits go for a combined $180. 

Still, if you’re looking for a reliable, durable, USA-made sled that you can push and pull, Rogue’s Echo Dog will last forever. Buy once, cry once.

Most Versatile Weight Sled: Torque Fitness Torque Tank M1

Torque Fitness Torque Tank M1

Torque Fitness Torque Tank M1

Specifically designed for home gyms, the Torque Tank M1 is a versatile sled that's foldable and, thanks to its use of magnetic resistance over weight plates, much quieter than the traditional weight sled. This model even includes an optional display that provides a slew of real-time metrics. 

Shop Torque Fitness

There are two universal truths about weight sleds — they’re loud, and they require a lot of weight plates. We like the Torque Tank M1 because it eases the burden on both of those counts. First, it has wheels for easy mobility and reduced noise. It also employs magnetic resistance, so you don’t need many (or any) weight plates to apply resistance. Just bring your body weight. 

Torque revamped their Tank M1 in 2023, with the biggest change being an adjustable toe bar that makes the sled easier to pull. “The front wheel is the only one that has resistance; the back wheels spin freely,” our tester says. “With the previous model, when you [were pulling the sled], the front wheel lifted off due to the position of the toe bar. It’s almost like pulling the sled was an afterthought. Now it has three positions and sticks out further, eliminating the issue.”

Let’s get into the scores. We’re giving the Torque Tank M1 a 5 out of 5 for noise since it’s among the quietest sleds we’ve tested. We also give it a 4 out of 5 for its resistance profile and its construction. 

As mentioned, you don’t need a stack of weight plates to add resistance to the Tank M1, but adding a plate or two can provide more gravity to keep the tires grounded. If you’re a home gym owner, you’ve probably got a few sitting around that can serve this purpose. 

Tank M1 costs $799, but that’s just for the base. Extras include a console ($79), dumbbell cradles ($35), wheelbarrow handles ($120), wall-mounted storage ($130), a phone holder ($20), a V-strap ($50), and a tow rope ($110). Of those, we’d highly recommend the wall-mounted storage system, which can help you save some space in your garage gym. We also recommend the cradle attachment — in addition to offering a bit of an extra challenge, slotting dumbbells in the cradles can help keep the front grounded.

Benefits of Weight Sleds

Weight sleds are unique. Unlike the best treadmills, which facilitate running, walking, or jogging, sleds are more of a hybrid weight-cardio tool. You load the sled up and perform either high- or low-intensity cardio. Here are a few benefits of training with weight sleds.

• Versatility: Sleds can be a great tool for warmups or as the foundation of an entire strength workout. “The sled can complement just about any training regimen or goal: it can build speed, burn calories, add muscle, and enhance endurance,” says Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer. 
• Better Cardio: Cardio is any activity that raises your heart rate, and pushing or pulling a heavy sled with near-maximal effort gets the ticker pumping. Athletes, for example, will often practice sprint intervals with a weighted sled. You can also attach a belt to your waist and drag a moderately heavy sled for 10 to 20 minutes to make your normal walks more challenging. 
• Build Speed:  Common sense may lead you to believe that routinely sprinting against a load will enhance your speed when you eventually remove the load — and you’d be right. One study, which tested 50 high school athletes, found that groups who trained with weighted sled sprints saw greater speed gains than those who only trained in unloaded sprints. (1)
• Builds Lower Body Strength: Push or pull a sled and your legs almost immediately engage as you drive it forward or backward. While it’s difficult to track progressive overload in sled pushes/pulls compared to moves like the deadlift and back squat, sled work is still a good way to build leg strength and endurance. 

How Much Do Weight Sleds Cost?

Compared to many of the best cardio machines, sleds are pretty affordable. However, you should expect to spend at least a couple hundred dollars, especially if you want a high-quality push-pull sled. 

What to Consider Before Buying a Weight Sled

Buying a weight sled is like buying a treadmill in that it’s an investment that you want to spend some time thinking about. Consider the type of sled, resistance type, weight capacity, and where you plan on using it to guide your purchase. Keep reading for more details. 

Sled Type

There are a few types of sleds and sled iterations, and which you choose depends on your training. Prowler sleds, for example, often features skis and a high weight capacity. Speed sleds, meanwhile, tend to be smaller and have lower weight capacities, making them better suited for sprints than power pushes (and pulls). There are also wheelbarrow sleds, which can help you target the core and forearms and strengthen your grip. 

Resistance Type 

Some sleds use magnetic resistance, which applies friction to a set of wheels to make pushing and pulling it harder. Most sleds require that you load it with weight plates to weigh it down. Which type you opt for depends mostly on how much you’re willing to spend and what you already own. 

[Related: Best Bumper Plates]

“If I’m in the market for a weight sled, the first thing I’m looking for is the type of resistance it uses,” says BarBend expert reviewer and certified personal trainer Kate Meier. “Can you load your own weight plates, and, if so, do you already have them? If not, factor that cost on top of the price of the sled.”

Sleds that use magnetic resistance typically cost more, but Meier makes a good point in that if you buy a plate-loaded sled and don’t already own plates (metal or bumper plates are fine), you’ll need to shell out a few hundred extra dollars anyway. 

Weight Capacity

How much your sled can hold is an important consideration, and one you’ll make based on the type of sled workout you plan to do. If you plan on performing sprints, then a speed sled that only holds a couple hundred pounds is fine. However, if you want to do heavy sled pushes/pulls, you’ll want to buy a power sled that can support 500-plus pounds. 

“You can probably push or pull a lot more than you think if you want to get really heavy,” Meier says. “So a sled that only holds a few hundred pounds may not be enough for your sled training. But if you just want to do sled sprints and smoke some conditioning work, a smaller sled that holds less weight is just fine.”

Indoor or Outdoor Use 

Also, consider where you’ll be using your sled. “If you get a metal sled to pull on the sidewalk out front, your neighbors may dislike all the noise you make,” Meier says. “Maybe a sled on wheels is better for you. You can also damage the sled on concrete, asphalt, or rocks, so be mindful of that if that’s the surface you’re working with.”

Types of Weight Sleds

There are a few types of sleds and sled iterations, and which you choose depends on your preferred sled training. 

Traditional Weight Sled

“A traditional weight sled looks strikingly similar to a sled-riding sled: Two rails lined up parallel to one another with a mechanism in the middle to hold weight,” Meier explains. “It might have rings on the front or back to attach a rope to for pushing or pulling, and some models may have posts you can attach so you can do sled pushes. Traditional sleds are best for athletes who want to do a lot of pulling, dragging, and sprint work.”

Note that you may also hear about prowler sleds. There isn’t a clear definition of a “prowler” sled, but it’s the type you picture when you think of weight sleds. Prowlers typically have skis on the bottom, a triangular or square frame, two poles in the back (for pushing), and a bar or two on the front (for pulling and low-angled pushing). If its name wasn’t already an indication, prowler sleds are great tools for reaping the benefits of the prowler push. 

Speed Sleds

These sleds are typically square-shaped and smaller than prowlers, usually just large enough to hold a stack of weight plates. Some models, like the Shogun Sports Multi-Purpose Sled, can be pulled and pushed, while others, like the Titan Fitness Power Drag Sled, can only be dragged. Speed sleds are meant to provide drag during sprints. 

Wheelbarrow Sled

Virtually all wheelbarrow sleds can be used like prowler sleds, but they also possess one or more wheels, allowing you to hoist the back up and carry it like a wheelbarrow. Some sleds, like the M1 Tank, sell wheelbarrow handles separately for an additional cost. 

“This is a great odd-object tool you can use to train moving heavy loads across distances,” says Meier. “You can really work your grip with this kind of sled as well.”

Weight Sleds FAQs

References

1. Cahill MJ, Oliver JL, Cronin JB, Clark KP, Cross MR, Lloyd RS. (2019). Influence of resisted sled-push training on the sprint force-velocity profile of male high school athletes. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 30(3):442-449.

The post Best Weight Sleds of 2024, Chosen By Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

While we’re not at the “senior citizen” status just yet, we still feel we understand what makes a great stationary bike. No matter your tenure on this planet, you’ll want a bike that’s supportive, durable, and (above all else) enjoyable to train on. So, we’ve gotten hands-on with dozens of cycles and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this round-up of the best exercise bikes for seniors available today.

The 9 Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors of 2024

• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sole LCR Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors for Live Classes: Peloton Bike
• Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002
• Best Air Bike for Seniors: Concept2 BikeErg
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Arms: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049
• Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: FitNation Flex Bike Ultra
• Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
• Best Under-Desk Exercise Bike for Seniors: DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike

How We Tested and Chose the Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best exercise bikes for seniors, we got hands-on with 50 different equipment silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Exercise Bike Type: Indoor cycling bikes can come in a variety of silhouettes, each with its own perks and drawbacks. To cater to as wide an audience of older athletes as possible, we included profiles that fall under a range of exercise bike types including recumbent bikes, spin bikes, air bikes, folding bikes, and more.
• Adjustability: Everyone’s body is different, so having an exercise bike that can be adjusted to your liking is key. All of the included stationary bikes in this guide feature multiple adjustment points along with ergonomic toggles that can make finding that perfect setup a less complicated endeavor.
• Available Programming: Pedaling along and watching your time, speed, and calories can be somewhat boring, especially if you’re turning to your exercise bike daily for your training regimen. As such, we made sure to include profiles capable of streaming popular fitness programs, or at least those that featured an integrated tablet holder for DIY streaming setups in tandem with the present LCD displays.
• Product Footprint: Not every older athlete has the same space available to house high-quality gym equipment. We made sure to include the product dimensions of every exercise bike featured in this round-up for a clearer illustration of the floorspace required and also included some compact silhouettes boasting added storage features like foldable frames or under-desk positioning.
• Resistance Levels: To achieve hypertrophy — the term referring to muscle growth via physical activity — you need to pose a challenge to your abilities every now and again. (6) As such, we looked for exercise bikes offering different levels of resistance, which can be useful when trying to change up your training intensity from one session to the next.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35

NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike

NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike

This recumbent bike features a 25-pound flywheel and 26 levels of magnetic resistance. With your purchase, you'll receive a 30-day trial to iFit, granting you access to over 16,000 workout classes ranging from cardio to strength training. 

Shop NordicTrack

For older adults wanting a stellar home workout, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial R35. We’ve previously ranked this among the best recumbent bikes available and really like the setup for older individuals given the more comfortable seat, ergonomic front pedals, and stellar dynamic programming available through NordicTrack’s integration with iFIT.

Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, rated the available programming at 5 out of 5 praising the platform’s robust library of over 16,000 on-demand courses and real-world rides powered by Google Maps. “Plus, I really appreciate the AutoAdjust technology that makes toggling through the 26 levels of resistance a breeze,” they added. “When following along to an iFIT workout, the machine automatically adjusts your resistance in accordance with your on-screen road conditions or trainer’s instructions.”

Recumbent bikes fully support your body as opposed to more traditional stationary bikes, making them an excellent pick for older adults wanting some extra security and coziness. (2) Our tester, who had their ankle reconstructed prior to trying this R35, was very appreciative of the more inviting setup. “I’m not sure I’d be able to train as efficiently if I were looking to use a regular spin bike,” they stated.

To add to the approachable makeup, the R35 is rounded out with a comfortable seat with added back support. Plus, we scored the adjustability at 4 out of 5 thanks to the ergonomic lever that allows you to seamlessly slide the seat back and forth along the rail for that perfect positioning.

The NordicTrack Commercial R35 weighs in at 192 pounds, which can be heavy and cumbersome to get into position for a workout. While the machine does feature front transport wheels, we did rate the portability at 3.75 out of 5 given that there are no other storage features like a foldable frame to help with managing the silhouette. If you need a bike that can be easily toted from room to room or tucked neatly away in between workouts, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial R35 Recumbent Bike Review.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sole LCR Exercise Bike

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

For those who like to stream workout videos while they train, this recumbent bike is a great pick. It comes with access to a free library of training videos and you get 40 resistance level options.

Shop Sole

For older athletes looking for a type of exercise bike that lessens the strain across their back, recumbent bikes can be a great option. These silhouettes fully support your frame while also swapping out your traditional bike saddle for a backed chair. (2) While we’ve become fans of many recumbent bikes over the years, we feel the Sole LCR Exercise Bike is the best of the bunch when it comes to giving your spine that much-appreciated comfort.

Unlike other recumbent bikes that feature molded, ventilated plastic across the seat for added airflow, the Sole LCR boasts a padded seat that gives every workout a heightened sense of plush. “It’s seriously one of the most comfortable recumbent stationary bikes I’ve ever used,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer, who rated the ergonomics at 5 out of 5. “I also enjoyed the padded foot pedals for (literal) head-to-toe comfort.”

The Sole LCR also features a 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen capable of streaming your favorite fitness apps and entertainment services (even Netflix). This can be excellent for a wide range of older athletes whether you prefer to follow along with trainer-led workouts or want to take in a few miles while catching up with your favorite television show.

That said, we did rate the tech features at 4.5 out of 5 given the smaller LCD monitor. At 10.1 inches, it’s got a smaller screen size than the latest iPad Pro. If you want a more immersive display, you’ll need to look elsewhere. (3) There is an included tablet holder, though, if you want to try your luck with a DIY streaming setup.

From a durability standpoint, we scored the Sole LCR at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its impressively sturdy steel frame capable of supporting up to 350 pounds. This can be excellent for larger athletes, but be mindful that there’s a direct correlation between weight capacity and product weight. Our tester noted, “While the 152-pound listed product weight isn’t as high as other recumbent bikes, I still had to muscle up when trying to get this machine into position.”

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors for Live Classes: Peloton Bike

Original Peloton Bike

Original Peloton Bike

The bike that started the Peloton craze offers a 22-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, a five-megapixel front-facing camera, and a built-in microphone. The Peloton membership offers access to thousands of live and on-demand cycling classes as well as progress tracking and leaderboards.

Shop Peloton

If you’re an older athlete that enjoys tuning into trainer-led courses designed to keep you energized from start to finish, it’s tough to look past the Original Peloton Bike. While other upright bikes have caught up to this iconic brand in terms of machine capabilities, the available programming offered through Peloton’s All-Access membership is still the driving factor when comparing this to other exercise bikes with screens.

Our tester scored the available programming at 5 out of 5, stating that the “Peloton Experience” was one of the best digital fitness services they’ve had in recent memory. “Every trainer brings a spark of liveliness to their streams,” they noted. “I also really love the shout-outs they pepper in throughout the sessions. You truly feel like you’re in the studio with them.”

An All-Access Peloton membership (which costs roughly $44 monthly) also gives you access to the brand’s other training regimens beyond the classic bike workouts. Peloton has modules for HIIT, strength training, yoga, and more. However, we rated the available tech at 4.5 out of 5 since the 21.5-inch HD touchscreen does not pivot or rotate for easier viewing in these off-bike training sessions. It could be troublesome to find the ideal setup behind your bike, especially when your intense workouts call for a lot of movement.

As far as the ergonomics are concerned, we scored the Original Peloton Bike at 4 out of 5. Naturally, this spin bike silhouette will place more strain across your back than, say, a recumbent bike, but the main issue lies in the pedal design. You’ll need Delta-compatible cycling shoes that lock you into your pedals in order to use this machine. Older adults just wanting exercise equipment for quick, convenient workout sessions throughout the week may see this extra expense as an unnecessary burden.

Lastly, it may go without saying, but a Peloton membership is practically required to get the most out of this bike. Be sure your finances can support the machine cost as well as the monthly subscription before considering this exercise bike for your home gym setup.

Read our full Peloton Bike Review.

Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike

This bike's 49-pound flywheel is one of the largest we've seen on a consumer indoor cycle and will help you build momentum while keeping your ride smooth. The transport wheels are also large and durable, so you can move tip this bike and move it out of the way when your workout is over.

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Sure, exercise bikes can be viewed as some of the best home gym equipment, but that doesn’t overshadow the costs of owning one of these machines. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a high-quality indoor cycle, and that doesn’t include any additional subscription fees you may need to sign up for. The SF-B1002 from Sunny Health and Fitness, though, comes in at just under $400 making it a high-value pick for budget-conscious athletes.

Having used this machine in the past, I can attest to the value at play, which I rated at 5 out of 5. I also appreciate how you can purchase this upright exercise bike from Amazon, which could potentially open the doors to even more savings and coupons.

Now, for less than $400, you cannot expect to get the most tech-riddled exercise machine. The SF-B1002 does not feature a center console, meaning there’s no way to stream on-demand workout programs or even track vital metrics such as time, calories burned, resistance, and more.

That said, the brand still delivers in terms of durability. I scored the SF-B1002 at 4.5 out of 5 for the category as I experienced no shakiness or jostling while pedaling through my workouts. The durability was also noteworthy given the price — I’ve trained with other budget-friendly fitness equipment and the sturdiness is lacking more often than not.

This exercise bike’s 49-pound flywheel also bolsters the bike’s integrity. This hefty component is above the industry standard of 40 pounds, creating a smooth pedaling experience that’s easy to maintain. A lighter flywheel can call for you to pedal harder to keep up with certain paces.

This budget-friendly indoor cycle uses friction resistance, meaning intensity is created via a leather patch that’s tightened or loosened across the flywheel. I scored the resistance at 3.75 out of 5 since this system can begin to wear out over time. Plus, the rubbing across the leather can be noisy at times more so than exercise bikes operating with magnetic resistance.

[Related: Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

Best Air Bike for Seniors: Concept2 BikeErg

Concept2 BikeErg

Concept2 BikeErg

The lightweight Concept2 BikeErg eschews the moveable arms you'll find on most air bikes, delivering a power-driven ride that operates more like a standard cycle than a spin bike. The flywheel's unique damper allows riders to adjust airflow, which is akin to switching gears on a mountain bike. 

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Air resistance can be a unique (albeit loud) way to give your at-home workouts some upgraded intensity. Rather than relying on magnets or friction, these bikes have you work against your performance with the flywheel serving as a large fan blade. Essentially, the harder you train, the more intense your workouts will be. While many of the best air bikes can be excellent for these needs, we like the Concept2 BikeErg for older athletes as the silhouette is reminiscent of a traditional upright bike.

Other air bikes often feature swinging arms, which can be great for upper body training but does impact the machine’s overall footprint. Thankfully, the BikeErg measures in at 48 inches long by 28 inches wide, or 9.33 square feet. For reference, that’s smaller than your average coffee table. (4)

We also like the BikeErg thanks to its motorless design and electricity-free makeup. This — combined with the lightweight 68-pound frame — can allow you to set this exercise bike wherever you please. We rated the portability at 4.5 out of 5, as such.

There is a small LCD display at the center of this upright bike, which can be useful when tracking your workout performance and other metrics like speed, time, calories, and more. “I also appreciate the Bluetooth connectivity features,” says our tester in reference to their 3 out of 5 tech rating. “While the LCD screen isn’t as immersive as other exercise bikes, I did like how I could connect the console to my heart rate monitor as well as other fitness apps like Zwift.”

The Concept2 BikeErg can be a great air bike for older athletes as there are multiple adjustment points across the seat and handlebars giving you the power to truly customize your setup. Unfortunately, though, we did have to drop our adjustability rating to 4 out of 5 as there are no toggles for forward or backward saddle movement. If you need to have a setup closer to the handlebars, you may come up a little short.

[Related: SkiErg vs Rower vs Air Bike]

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Arms: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RBE420049

The SF-RBE420049 from Sunny Health and Fitness can serve as a recumbent bike-elliptical hybrid in your home gym thanks to the swinging arm attachments that allow for upper body engagement during training. Front transport wheels and a 100-pound frame weight also lend themselves to good maneuverability when looking to give your training layout a fresh new aesthetic.

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Want more of a full-body workout when it comes to your indoor cycling routine? The SF-RBE420049 can deliver with swinging arms that compliment the recumbent bike-elliptical hybrid frame to create a low-impact, enjoyable training setup that gives you the power to engage all of your musculature in one fell swoop.

I’ve trained with the SF-RBE420049 before and do feel it’s a worthwhile pick for older adults as it gets everything moving in a singular profile. I also think this equipment can be great for older athletes thanks to the multiple adjustment points, which I rated at 4 out of 5. Sliding the seat with its included backrest is simple across the rail, and I also enjoyed the oversized foot pedals that reminded me of my experience atop some of the best ellipticals — no need to worry about precise foot placement to achieve a proper revolution.

Like other Sunny Health and Fitness products, the SF-RBE420049 doesn’t feature the most tech-heavy design. The included center monitor can track key metrics like calories, speed, time, and more, but the features stop there. Don’t expect to purchase this exercise bike for seniors and be engulfed in a wide array of available programming. However, I still gave the tech a 3 out of 5 as the readings are legible enough and there is an included tablet holder for streaming your own digital workouts.

As you may expect from an exercise bike with arms, the SF-RBE420049 does not feature a compact footprint. You’ll need roughly 15.19 square feet of space to properly house this machine, which is about the same as your standard loveseat. (5) If you’re on the fence about whether this bike can fit within your space, it may be best to think of it as furniture — can your floorplan support another loveseat or sofa?

Finally, I rated the value at 3.5 out of 5 since there aren’t many conveniences included across the silhouette. You can likely find a more interactive machine for slightly more money if you’re honed in on total-body training.

Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: FitNation Flex Bike Ultra

FitNation Flex Bike Ultra

FitNation Flex Bike Ultra

A folding exercise bike that gives you 1 month of free access to the FitPass App with purchase. With adjustable seat recline for upright or recumbent riding, and resistance bands so that you can do bicep curls, tricep kickbacks, or shoulder work while on your ride.

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Exercise bikes can be excellent for low-impact workouts, but there’s a definite impact when it comes to your floorplan. Especially recumbent bikes, these machines can take up a good chunk of space across your home gym. As such, it can be nice to have an exercise bike with built-in storage features such as the FitNation Flex Ultra. This foldable indoor cycle can compress down to 2.54 square feet and stores easily in a corner of your room or even in a nearby closet.

The Fitnation Flex Bike Ultra is also one of the best folding exercise bikes thanks to its included tech. Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, stated, “I like how clear the readouts are across the LCD display,” in reference to their 4 out of 5 tech rating. “Plus, the included tablet holder allowed me to stream my regular workouts without any issues.”

With these included digital features, though, as well as the convenient resistance bands for added upper body training, the Flex Bike Ultra does cost more than other folding bikes we’ve trialed. However, in comparison to standard upright bikes and recumbent bikes, it can still be a worthwhile option for budget-minded athletes.

When it comes to durability, we scored the Flex Bike Ultra at 3.5 out of 5. We experienced a bit of jostling and wobbliness during rides, which was somewhat expected given the machine’s more compact footprint and lighter frame. If you’re worried about balance when atop your fitness equipment, it could be wise to opt for a sturdier silhouette.

Lastly, the FitNation Flex Bike Ultra features multiple adjustment knobs for the resistance intensity as well as the seat. While we enjoyed the toggles, we had to pause and confirm which component would be adjusted at each knob. This unintuitive layout may be annoying at the start of your fitness journey, hence our 4 out of 5 adjustability rating. Over time, though, we’re sure you can become accustomed to the settings.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

This bike isn't fancy, but it still has everything you need for a solid at-home cardio workout. It offers eight levels of magnetic resistance, and you can track your stats on the LCD display screen. 

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This Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike can be an excellent pick for older athletes thanks to its lightweight frame, low price point, and comfortable seat design that features padding across the entire profile. Plus, the eight available magnetic resistance levels can provide plenty of intensity without giving you too many options that may not ever fit within your training scheme.

At less than $200, the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike (marketed under the ME-709 product name) does feature a good bit of plastic across its silhouette. “I’ve come to understand that even the best budget home gym equipment relies on plastic components, though,” says our tester who rated the durability at 3 out of 5, “So, I wouldn’t critique the design too much.”

All that plastic (and the 14-gauge steel) does lend itself to keeping this machine lightweight, however. At just 61 pounds, this recumbent bike can be easily transported from room to room without much hassle — provided you can comfortably lift 61 pounds. We did knock the portability score down to 4 out of 5, though, since there are no front transport wheels to make for easier maneuverability.

The Marcy ME-709 does feature a center LCD display capable of tracking time, speed, distance, and calories burned. According to our tester, the readouts are clear and visible, but those looking for a tech-heavy exercise bike may feel underwhelmed. “There aren’t any preset programs to choose from, and there’s no tablet holder built into the console for DIY streaming setups,” they added. As such, we scored the available tech at 1 out of 5.

We also appreciate the adjustability displayed across the seat design which allows older athletes to fine-tune their positioning. However, we did find that the lumbar support across the backrest is non-adjustable, meaning the back padding is consistent regardless of your setup. If you need a bike with a toggleable saddle, it may be best to opt for a more robust machine.

Read our full Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike Review.

Best Under-Desk Exercise Bike for Seniors: DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike

DeskCycle Under Desk Bike

DeskCycle Under Desk Bike

The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike was designed to help you stay active while firing off emails at work. The low-profile pedals are adjustable and compatible with desks as low as 27 inches. Its magnetic resistance, meanwhile, works to provide a whisper-quiet pedal that won't distract coworkers.

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Looking to maximize your time by getting in some training while answering emails or watching television? Thanks to its compact design that fits neatly underneath an office desk or coffee table, we think the DeskCycle2 Under Desk Bike is perfect for these needs regardless of your fitness level.

The DeskCycle2 features an adjustable height between 9 and 10 inches making it usable with desk clearances as low as 27 inches. For reference, that equates to older athletes 5’10” or shorter — we’re assuming that taller athletes would require more legroom if they’re looking for as comfortable a working area as possible.

While the overall dimensions of this under-desk bike are noteworthy — the total footprint measures in at 1.71 square feet — we do wish that DeskCycle placed a carrying handle somewhere along the silhouette. You need to bend down fully to grab hold and move this machine from its set position, which may be more of a chore when trying to rearrange your under-desk layout.

There are also eight magnetic resistance levels, which our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated at 4 out of 5. “The higher resistance levels definitely pose a challenge, and I’m grateful that I can maximize my time in between meetings with a heart-pumping pedal session,” they added. Additionally, we like how the LCD display is removable, allowing you to monitor your time, speed, and other metrics without crooning your neck to see your feet. This detachable display is also beneficial as the basic black and white console would otherwise be illegible from a seated position.

The DeskCycle2 weighs in at 23 pounds but can support up to 270 pounds. This rock-solid composition surprised our tester who had previously found other best mini exercise bikes to be somewhat frail. “It felt really stable with no movement underneath my workstation,” they said in reference to their 5 out of 5 durability rating. “The whisper-quiet operation was also a plus, especially when trying to attend Zoom meetings or answering the phone mid-workout.”

Benefits of Exercise Bikes for Seniors

According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, “Cycling brings an impressive collection of health benefits to the table: cardiovascular health, endurance, stamina, and muscular endurance are all improved with cycling, to name a few.” 

[Related: Benefits of Exercise Bikes]

These perks can be reaped regardless of your age or fitness experience. Below are a handful of perks that can also come from the best exercise bikes for seniors.

• Low-Impact Training: Unlike treadmills or other fitness disciplines, exercise bikes offer a low-impact training experience where your entire body is supported by the machine itself. This can help cut down gravity’s influence across your joints leading to less shock absorption and impact with each progressive step (err, pedal stroke).
• No Weather Influence: Capritto states, “Indoor exercise bikes provide access to cycling no matter the weather or outdoor conditions. Many people do not feel safe cycling outside — an exercise bike eliminates traffic as a reason to skip your session, so it can be someone’s golden ticket to exercising more frequently.”
• Accommodating Seat Profiles: For older athletes dealing with mobility issues or nagging back pain, there are plenty of accommodating exercise bike silhouettes that can help you stay comfortable in training. For example, recumbent bikes feature seats with a backrest for better lumbar support, while under-desk bikes can be set up virtually anywhere you have a cozy chair to rest in during sessions.

How Much Do Exercise Bikes for Seniors Cost?

Whether you’re looking for exercise bikes good for weight loss, high-intensity profiles capable of streaming the best trainer-led workouts, or simple machines that can help you stay active and mobile, you can expect to find a wide range of price points when searching for exercise bikes for seniors. On average, though, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a top-notch machine. Read below to see the price comparisons of each profile featured in this round-up.

What to Consider Before Buying Exercise Bikes for Seniors

Your purchasing journey when buying an exercise bike for seniors is fairly similar to determining what to look for when buying an indoor cycle. You’ll need to consider your exercise bike type, its included tech features, structural integrity, and (of course) price before adding a silhouette to your online cart. Here are some of our recommended factors worth keeping in mind when trying to find the best older-athlete-approved exercise bike for your training space.

Exercise Bike Type

One of the first considerations worth thinking through is which type of exercise bike you’d prefer in your living space. Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, states, “Recumbent bikes allow people with mobility limitations or injuries to enjoy cycling, as they are reclined and take pressure off the hips and back. Upright bikes are your typical stationary bikes, which are excellent for high-intensity exercise and tech-savvy cyclists who love to take fitness classes.”

There are also air bikes, under-desk bikes, and foldable bikes that could be potential winners for your home gym setup. Of course, you should take your personal comfort and training goals into consideration, but it can also be wise to break out a tape measure and determine how much space you have available before getting too deep into your search. After all, a machine is only useful if you can actually store it comfortably within your abode.

Durability

Your exercise bike should also be durable enough to withstand regular use. While opting for a profile featuring steel framing and other rugged components can be a great starting point, a good indicator of a bike’s resiliency is in its listed weight capacity. This is the maximum load your machine can handle without compromising performance.

[Related: Best Exercise Bikes for Heavy People]

On average, most exercise bikes can support 270 pounds or more, with many upright exercise bikes capable of holding between 300 and 350 pounds. Think about your body composition and opt for a profile that you won’t be maxing out from the start.

Adjustability and Ergonomics

It can be a pain to try and adjust your exercise bike to your desired conditions, so it can be helpful to look at your profile’s toggle points before getting your unit delivered to your doorstep. Look for multiple adjustment points that can allow you to change your body positioning without much strain, especially along the saddle or seat area. If you’re looking for a recumbent bike or other profile with an included backrest, we recommend making sure that this area can be adjusted to your liking as well.

In addition to having multiple adjustment points, it can also be wise to look at how those adjustments are made. For older athletes, we recommend taking a good look at the toggle ergonomics — are the levers and knobs graspable mid-workout, or will all changes need to be made before hopping into the saddle for a workout?

Available Programming

Every athlete — regardless of age — has their own preferred training style. While some live and breathe off engaging trainer-led sessions, others can be fine with just pedaling along as they catch up on their favorite television programming. When browsing for an exercise bike, be sure that its included tech features match your workout style.

For those that do prefer to follow along to the best fitness apps and online coaches, you’ll also want to consider your viewing preferences. If you want a hassle-free display, look for exercise bikes that come equipped with large TV-like displays capable of streaming your favorite platforms. If you’re okay with creating your own console setup, take a gander to ensure that your fitness equipment boasts a convenient tablet holder for on-bike viewing.

Price

Price should always be a top consideration when searching for the best exercise bikes for seniors. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $860 for a high-quality silhouette, but there are plenty of noteworthy profiles both below and above this median cost.

You should also consider if you’ll need an additional subscription to access your bike’s library of available workouts. These services are typically billed monthly, so they can become forgotten investments at the time of your initial purchase. Crunch the numbers and ensure your budget can support the machine itself along with any added memberships that may be required to get the most out of your machine.

Exercise Bikes for Seniors FAQs

References

1. Lee, C.-W., & Cho, G.-H. (2014). Effect of stationary cycle exercise on gait and balance of elderly women. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 26(3), 431–433. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3976019/
2. Cronkleton, E. (2019, July 12). Stationary bike workout benefits and exercise plans. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/stationary-bike-workout
3. IPad Pro – Technical Specifications. Apple. (n.d.). https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/specs/
4. Cocreativeinteriors. (2022, March 17). Standard Furniture Size Guide. CoCreative Interiors. https://cocreativeinteriors.com/2022/03/standard-furniture-size-guide/
5. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
6. Damas, F., Phillips, S. M., Libardi, C. A., Vechin, F. C., Lixandrão, M. E., Jannig, P. R., Costa, L. A., Bacurau, A. V., Snijders, T., Parise, G., Tricoli, V., Roschel, H., & Ugrinowitsch, C. (2016). Resistance training‐induced changes in integrated myofibrillar protein synthesis are related to hypertrophy only after attenuation of muscle damage. The Journal of Physiology, 594(18), 5209–5222. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27219125/ 

The post The Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors, Hand-Chosen By Our Team of Experts appeared first on BarBend.

If you’re willing to put in the work, adding a manual treadmill to your home gym can help you power into a higher level of personal fitness. Our team of expert testers has hopped on dozens of different treadmills and carefully selected the five best manual treadmills we know can help you get the job done — because without a motor, they sure aren’t going to run themselves. Read on for our manual treadmill roundup. 

The Best Manual Treadmills of 2024

• Best Overall Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
• Best Budget Manual Treadmill: Bells of Steel Wooden Residential Treadmill
• Best Manual Treadmill for Running: Grit Fitness Tru Grit Runner
• Best Manual Treadmill for Walking: Sunny Health and Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill
• Best Curved Manual Treadmill: TrueForm Runner

How We Tested and Chose the Best Manual Treadmills

If the BarBend team knows one thing, it’s workout equipment. The group is chock-full of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts who’ve had the opportunity to walk, jog, and run on more than 40 different treadmills. To arrive at our top picks, we tapped their expertise and adhered to the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology. We scored each machine on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 different categories including the following

• Value: It isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about what you’re getting for that amount. Manual treadmill prices range from a couple hundred dollars to several thousand, so we judged each based on what they offer in relation to the dollars spent.
• Durability: It takes a lot of force to manually power a treadmill, so we carefully eyed the stability, durability, and construction of these machines, including taking a look at the warranties. When it comes to warranties, our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, recommends “looking for 10 years on the frame, at least 2 years on parts, and at least 1 year for labor.”
• Conveniences: Manual treads tend not to have many of the bells and whistles motorized treadmills do (think: fans, water bottle holders, built-in displays, device shelves). We kept the industry standard in mind when rating these based on their inclusion.

Best Overall Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro

AssaultRunner Pro

AssaultRunner Pro

The AssaultRunner Pro is a durable, motorless treadmill that can be great for athletes wanting full control of their training intensity. The durable frame boasts a 350-pound weight capacity, and the included display console is easy to read, albeit simpler in nature.

Shop Assault Fitness

The AssaultRunner Pro is pricier than most motorized treadmills, but relatively affordable compared to the many of the best curved treadmills. That accessible price point — plus the solid construction and seamless workout experience — are what earned this manual treadmill our top overall pick.

Take it from our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, who says, “The AssaultRunner Pro is just a fun machine to run on. As an on-and-off CrossFitter, I’ve spent my fair share of time on the AssaultRunner Pro, and I have a blast every time I use one.”

The dollars spent on this model get you a solid steel frame and handrails, plus a heavy belt with thick rubber slats to provide a stable running surface. Better yet, it comes with a 150,000-mile guarantee.

 “Heavy” might sound like a bad thing when you’re the one powering the machine, but it actually makes running easier. Once you get the belt going, inertia keeps the belt moving so you aren’t working as hard to keep up your speed. Our tester gave it a 4 out of 5 for durability and a 3.5 out of 5 for comfort. “It’s harder than running on a treadmill with a motor, but the heavier belt, along with the incline of the curve, makes it more comfortable,” they said.

One area the AssaultRunner Pro is lacking is tech capabilities, which our tester scored a 4 out of 5. “The monitor is fine. It can connect to several different heart rate monitors, but outside of that, the tech is fairly limited,” our tester said. 

Capritto, on the other hand, sees it as a plus: “I like that the simple LCD screen isn’t distracting and just shows me what I need.” There’s no water bottle holders or device shelf, unless you put your phone on top of the display itself.

Any other downsides to this treadmill are commonalities among all manual treads: a lack of incline/decline training and the fact that you have to control your speed with your running pace. The latter, though, is part of what gets you all the juicy benefits of running on a manual tread.

Read our full AssaultRunner Pro Review.

Best Budget Manual Treadmill: Bells of Steel Wooden Residential Treadmill

Bells of Steel Wooden Residential Manual Treadmill

Bells of Steel Wooden Residential Manual Treadmill

This beefy, self-powered treadmill has an 8.4-degree curve that can help promote proper running form and support sweat-drenched HIIT sprints. It also has a trim 47-inch by 17.3-inch running deck, 4-inch wide footrails, and nylon slats in the belt that can potentially help reduce the impact on your joints.

Shop Bells of Steel

If you’re looking for a manual treadmill to walk or jog in your living space and don’t want to spend a ton of money or ruin the decor, the Bells of Steel Wooden Residential Treadmill could be the perfect machine for you. At $1,999.99, this is one of the most budget-friendly manual treadmills we’ve seen without compromising too much on style or construction. 

Other than the price, some of the best features are the stunning wooden aesthetic and small footprint. This tread will look great in a living or guest room, and the transport wheels make it easy to move. Overall, our tester, a certified personal trainer, gave it a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.

This Bells of Steel model got slightly lower marks for ergonomics, earning it a 3 out of 5. The 8.4-degree curve angle helps you power the tread with your stride, but with a 47” running deck, you have 15 inches less running space compared to the AssaultRunner Pro, for example. This makes this machine unsuitable for running and may pose an issue for taller athletes using it to walk or jog. 

That’s right: the biggest thing to note is that you can’t really run on this treadmill, so keep that in mind if you hope to crank out HIIT sprints or want to push your pace. “When I tried running on it, I felt like I was going to fall off the back, and had to use the handrails to feel stable,” our expert tester said. “The slatted belt feels looser than other competitors and isn’t the smoothest. I noticed a hitch in the belt every few steps,” they noted. 

Otherwise, our tester found the machine to be pretty durable, giving it a 3 out of 5 on that metric. The LCD display is basic but user-friendly and offers some training programs, earning it a 3 out of 5 on tech. 

Serious athletes will want to pass on this one, but those looking for one of the best walking treadmills to spruce up their living space might find the right fit in this manual tread.

Best Manual Treadmill for Running: Grit Fitness Tru Grit Runner

Grit Fitness Tru Grit Runner

Grit Fitness Tru Grit Runner

This self-powered treadmill stands out with six levels of resistance — the highest of which works to replicate a sled push. The frame is forged from commercial-grade steel and aluminum, and the battery-powered LCD display tracks time, distance, calories, speed, and tempo. 

Shop Dick's Sporting Goods

Most manual treadmills allow you to run or walk at different paces, but they’re essentially one-trick ponies. For runners who want to be able to vary the style and intensity of their training while spending under $3,000, the Grit Fitness Tru Grit Runner comes in clutch.

The standout feature of this manual treadmill is the functionality to add resistance. Using the six resistance levels, your treadmill workout can vary from feeling like a flat, easy run to an uphill sprint or even a weighted sled push. 

“If you turn the resistance dial to the highest setting, it feels almost like hiking or walking uphill,” our tester says. (To get this type of training on other machines — like the NordicTrack Commercial X22i — you’ll need to spend at least $1,000 more.) For this reason, our tester gave it a 4 out of 5 for both customizations and value. They also noted that, while you can use this high-quality machine for sprint work, it can get a bit loud.

Another drawback? It’s no dainty machine, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough space — and don’t plan to move it. Our tester gave it a 2 out of 5 on footprint and portability. “At 400 pounds, it’s heavy and awkward to move, especially because of the plastic shroud and small wheels,” they say. They also weren’t a fan of the amount of plastic or the quality of the welds. “But the rubber tread and frame around the belt seem like they’ll last and it uses a similar bearing system as most other curved treadmills,” they add. 

Similar to other manual treadmills, this one comes with minimal extras, including a simple LCD monitor that shows time, distance, pace, speed, calories, watts, and interval training modes, and a ledge in front of the display where you could put your phone. The big draw here, however, is the ability to adjust the resistance for a reasonable price.

Best Manual Treadmill for Walking: Sunny Health and Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M Manual Walking Treadmill

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M Manual Walking Treadmill

This manual treadmill can be a great selection for walking enthusiasts given its minimalist design and highly-portable makeup. Additionally, the SF-T1407M features a constant incline of 13.5 percent, which can be helpful when trying to challenge yourself throughout your daily step goals.

Shop Sunny Health & Fitness

If you plan to use a manual treadmill for walking workouts only, you can save yourself some serious cash by opting for one of the best budget treadmills. (Really, there’s no need to invest in heavy-duty hardware if you’re keeping it low-intensity.) In the case of this Sunny Health & Fitness manual treadmill, you can get a space-saving piece of home gym equipment for less than $200. It’s nothing stellar, but it performs for the price. Our tester gave it a 3 out of 5 for overall workout experience.

Technically, the company says you can run on this machine, though reviewers and our tester say otherwise. “I do not recommend running on this machine, or taking your hands off of the handlebars while using it,” says our tester. For walkers, however, it gets the job done — and you’ll get a pretty good workout, too. 

The tread is set at a 13.5-percent incline, so you get the benefits of incline walking, including increased intensity and calorie burn and prolonged activation of the hamstrings, glutes, and calves compared to walking on flat ground. (2)(3)

This option is also fantastic for those living in apartments or who’re looking to stow their treadmill when not in use; our tester gave it a 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability. 

“Even without wheels, it’s easy to move around, and I think almost anyone would be able to do so,” our tester says. The walking surface folds up into the handlebars, shrinking the footprint to 20 inches by 23 inches, small enough to slide into a coat closet. “You’ll need to be careful when folding or lowering the walking pad because there’s no hydraulic or locking mechanism. It will just fall,” our tester notes.

If you’re paying under $200 for a treadmill, you’re probably not expecting it to last forever (and really, you shouldn’t). Our tester gave it a 2.5 out of 5 on durability and construction, noting that it’s not the sturdiest thing in the world, but not a bad buy for the price.

Best Curved Manual Treadmill: TrueForm Runner

TrueForm Runner Curved Treadmill

TrueForm Runner Curved Treadmill

The top-of-the-line TrueForm Runner is a non-motorized treadmill that works to instill proper running form with a curved tread designed to better mimic outdoor terrain. It's the most expensive of its kind, but its powder coated steel frame is designed to last well into the foreseeable future. 

Shop Rogue

The price jump here might spook you, but hear us out: The TrueForm Runner, an upgraded version of the TrueForm Trainer, offers an unrivaled training experience. It’s fitted with a shallow, symmetrical curve to give athletes precise control over their form and speed — the latter of which is unlimited on this tread. “You can go from walking to sprint (and vice versa) in just a few steps,” our tester said, giving the Runner a 4.5 out of 5 on adjustability and ergonomics. 

It’s a machine worthy of elite athletes. The company even offers versions with an artificial turf tread, which allows you to train barefoot, or one with an outdoor track surface to help competitive sprinters train to race. These options, plus the fact that you can run at an unlimited speed, are why our tester gave the TrueForm Runner a 5 out of 5 for customizations.

The TrueForm Runner is also an absolute tank. Our tester gave it a 5 out of 5 for durability, as it’s designed to handle a lifetime of heavy commercial use. It’ll last you years and years of even the highest-intensity workouts (just peep that 20-year frame warranty). 

“It’s incredibly built, with a powder-coated steel frame, stainless hardware, high-end bearings, welded seams, and heavy-duty casters,” says our tester. The weight limit is one of the highest we’ve seen on any machine, accommodating athletes up to 450 pounds while sprinting and 700 pounds while walking.

It’s a fantastic, high-end treadmill — but not perfect. Our tester gave it a 3.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability, as the stable metal frame makes it quite heavy and hard to move. And despite the hefty price tag, it still lacks a few conveniences, like a device shelf, water bottle holder, and higher-end display. 

The monitor has a bright LED display but no Bluetooth connectivity, workout programs, or general adjustability; it only shows pace, speed, distance, and time. For some, that might be a letdown, but for athletes looking for a running experience that rivals outdoor miles, it could be just what the coach ordered.

Read our full TrueForm Runner Treadmill Review.

Benefits of Manual Treadmills

With manual treadmills, you get all the usual benefits of treadmills plus some extras. Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, is a big fan. “I love how [it] encourages me to maintain good running form and feels more like running outdoors, but brings all the benefits of running indoors,” she says. It also poses a new challenge: “You have to work at maintaining your pace; it won’t set the pace for you,” she says. It’s not just her opinion, either — these benefits are backed by research.

• Better Replicates Outdoor Running: A 2017 study published in Frontiers in Physiology found that, compared to a regular treadmill, running on a manual treadmill was more similar to overground (i.e. outdoor) running in terms of pacing and gait (1).
• Can Help Refine Running Form: A 2018 study found that running on a curved, non-motorized treadmill had a significant effect on people’s gait. Specifically, runners had a shorter stride length, less gait asymmetry, and reduced stride angle, which are associated with more efficient running, reduced injury risk, and less impact upon landing. (4)
• Potentially Burn More Calories: Research shows that walking or running on a manual treadmill results in higher overall exertion compared to doing so on one that’s motorized, and this seems to result in greater calorie burn while working out. (5)(6) 
• No Electricity Required: Electric, motorized treadmills require a well-placed outlet supplying plenty of power, which can add up on your electric bill. With manual treadmills, there’s also no need for a nearby outlet or unsightly extension cords. As such, it’s ideal for home use, as you can set it up anywhere. 

How Much Do Manual Treadmills Cost?

The price spectrum for manual treadmills is wider than you’d think: Budget manual treadmills can go as low as about $200, while high-end options can creep up towards $10,000. Keep in mind, though, that you can often find machines on sale, especially if you shop during some of the best times to buy a treadmill.

What to Consider Before Buying Manual Treadmills

There’s a lot to think about when buying a treadmill for your home gym. Some of the considerations have to do with the treadmill options, while others have more to do with you and your workout preferences. Give these factors some thought before you commit.

Electric vs. Manual Treadmills 

Manual treadmills come with the aforementioned benefits, but they are, admittedly, not for everyone. It’s a good idea to dig into the differences between manual vs. electric treadmills to decide which is the best type of treadmill for you.

For example, if you’re a beginner, running on a manual treadmill may be too intense. They also likely aren’t fit if you want incline/decline training, to follow along with running classes, or to stream other content while you work out.

Size 

“Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position, if applicable,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. “And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!”

If you plan to move the treadmill on your own, take a look at the machine’s weight, too. “You’ll likely need something that weighs less than 200 pounds and has mounted transport wheels,” she adds, though “the best treadmills tend to weigh 250 pounds or more because they’re designed to withstand sprinting speeds without wobbling or shaking.”

Price 

Your budget, frankly, is your business. Still, it pays to keep in mind that, when it comes to heavy workout machinery, you typically get what you pay for — and that seems to be even more true with manual treadmills.

Investing in a pricer, heavy-duty machine could be a better option if you want to run or sprint at high speeds or if you want one to last for many years and lots of high-intensity workouts. If you’re just looking to get moving (and perhaps aren’t even sure if you’ll like a manual treadmill), trying a cheaper option first may be the way to go. 

[Related: Running On a Treadmill vs. Running Outside]

Manual Treadmills FAQs

References

1. Edwards, R. B., Tofari, P. J., Cormack, S. J., & Whyte, D. G. (2017). Non-motorized Treadmill Running Is Associated with Higher Cardiometabolic Demands Compared with Overground and Motorized Treadmill Running. Frontiers in Physiology. 
2. Silder, A., Besier, T., & Delp, S. L. (2012). Predicting the metabolic cost of incline walking from muscle activity and walking mechanics. Journal of biomechanics. 
3. Orozco, E., Joslin, H., Blumenthal, K., & Rosario, M. (2022). Characteristics of Lower Extremity Muscle Activation in Response to Change in Inclination while Walking on a Treadmill. European Journal of Sport Sciences. 
4. Hatchett, A., Armstrong, K., Parr, B., Crews, M., & Tant, C. (2018). The Effect of a Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill on Running Gait Length, Imbalance and Stride Angle. Sports (Basel, Switzerland). 
5. Dabbs, N. C., Reid, M. J., Wimbish, J., Ng, J. (2021). The Effect of Motorized vs Non-Motorized Treadmills on Exercise Economy during Acute Sub-maximal Bouts in Collegiate Cross-Country Female Athletes. International Journal of Kinesiology & Sports Science. 
6. Robertson, N. (2014). Comparing Calorie Expenditure and Rating of Perceived Exertion between the Curve and a Motorized Treadmill. EWU Masters Thesis Collection. 
7. Schoenmakers, P. P. J. M., & Reed, K. E. (2018). The physiological and perceptual demands of running on a curved non-motorised treadmill: Implications for self-paced training. Journal of science and medicine in sport. 
8. Thompson, Dixie L. (2010). Fitness Focus Copy-and-Share: What is Oxygen Consumption?. ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal. 

The post Best Manual Treadmills of 2024, Tested By Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

While it’s best to avoid high-impact training when your knees are giving you trouble, continuing with a low-impact cardio routine — or starting one — can help take stress off your joints, decrease inflammation, manage weight,  improve your mood, and strengthen your heart. (2)(3) Our team of testers picked out the best home gym equipment to support those with knee pain, including an exercise bike, recumbent bike, elliptical, rower, and yes, even a cushioned treadmill, too, in the list below.

The 5 Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees of 2024

• Best Recumbent Bike for Bad Knees: Sole LCR
• Best Treadmill for Bad Knees: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
• Best Exercise Bike for Bad Knees: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14
• Best Elliptical for Bad Knees: Horizon EX-59 Elliptical
• Best Rowing Machine for Bad Knees: Concept2 RowErg

How We Tested and Chose the Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

The BarBend team includes certified personal trainers, former collegiate athletes, and lifelong fitness fans, and we’ve personally tested over 200 pieces of exercise equipment in our search for the best tools for your home. Utilizing the BarBend equipment testing methodology, we scored each profile in categories like portability, durability, and ergonomics on a scale from 1 (not impressed) to 5 (we love it). We focused on the following areas of interest when testing and selecting the top machines for your home gym.

• Ergonomics and Adjustability: Exercise equipment that features ergonomic builds can help allow a comfortable workout experience for a wider range of users while limiting knee and joint pain. We opted for machines with ample adjustments to provide the most appropriate range of motion to support those with bad knees.
• Comfort: In addition to cushioned running decks and padded seats, we made an effort to include options for exercise machines that were clearly designed with comfort and accessibility in mind. That can include step-through frames and roomy pedals.  
• Weight Limit: Individuals who carry excess weight are more likely to struggle with knee pain. (4)(5) Due to this, we looked for user weight limits between 300 and 500 pounds. When this weight limit wasn’t met, we made sure to note it.

Best Recumbent Bike for Bad Knees: Sole LCR

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

For those who like to stream workout videos while they train, this recumbent bike is a great pick. It comes with access to a free library of training videos and you get 40 resistance level options.

Shop Sole

“Recumbent bikes make cycling accessible to people who have injuries and/or mobility limitations,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. The Sole LCR, one of the best recumbent bikes we’ve tested, provides a whopping 40 levels of resistance and a padded seat and backrest to put users in a more reclined position during their cardio session, thus reducing strain on the back, hips, and knees. Ergonomics, adjustability, and customizations scored a 5 out of 5 with our tester.

Those with achy joints may also appreciate the step-through frame design. On upright exercise bikes, users need to kick their leg up and over to mount, but getting situated in this recumbent model is more like sitting down in a chair.  

Once seated and ready to cruise, the HD touchscreen provides access to pre-loaded apps and screen mirroring from your smartphone. “The touchscreen is really easy to navigate,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “You can mirror your phone’s screen here, which is great if you want to watch content from an app on your phone.” Tech capabilities and conveniences scored a 4.5 out of 5. 

However, this 10.1-inch touchscreen, smaller than the average 16- to 20-inch touchscreens we’ve seen, may be too small for some viewers.

Though you can view nearly any training app on the touchscreen thanks to its screen-mirroring capabilities — a big reason why it made our list of the best Peloton alternatives — you also get access to the free SOLE+ app. “There are classes you can take with the app, but it has a way to go before it’s at the same caliber as something like iFIT,” said our tester. “The class selections are limited, and sometimes it’s hard to understand the instructors.” Conveniences scored a 4 out of 5.

There’s a lot to love with this knee-friendly recumbent bike, but these features come at a cost. At $1,799, it’s on the higher end of recumbent bikes, which tend to cost between $600 to $1,500. Regardless, our tester still gave value a 4 out of 5 score, declaring that “this is the best recumbent bike I’ve tested.” 

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose. 

Shop NordicTrack

We think the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is one of the best treadmills for bad knees, as it features Runners Flex cushioning that can help absorb impact on your landing while also providing a stable push-off. With a powerful 3.5 CHP motor and incline and decline capabilities, the 1750 earned an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 with our testers — the highest score out of over 50 treadmills we’ve tested.

BarBend reviewer Jarrett Evans, a collegiate strength and conditioning coach, appreciates the shock absorption on this model. “It felt like running on a gymnastics floor,” he says. Adjustability and ergonomics scored a 5 out of 5.

We’d also recommend checking out the below video review with BarBend tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC.

The 14-inch HD touchscreen is integrated with iFIT, which provides guided scenic trail runs, walks, and hikes, route-building capabilities with Google Maps, and a SmartAdjust feature that can automatically adjust your speed, incline, and decline.

“I took a class in the Hawaiian Endurance Series on iFIT and when I was running down this gorgeous ridge, it was cool having my decline automatically adjust as I saw myself running downhill,” says BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, who gave tech capabilities and dynamic training a 5 out of 5 score.

However, this subscription will cost you an additional $39 a month. Both Meier and Herod believe a subscription is necessary to make the most of this treadmill. “iFIT is what makes this treadmill worth the price. Without an iFIT subscription, the machine isn’t really worth it,” said Meier. 

This app is the only programming the HD touchscreen will stream, so if you’re interested in running with Peloton or another app, you may want to look elsewhere.

While we think this machine is one of the best treadmills for beginners, it does take up 21 square feet of floor space — about the same area as a twin-sized bed. (6) “The main drawback for this machine is its footprint… so definitely ensure your space can fit it,” notes Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. Footprint and portability scored a 3.5 out of 5. 

Read our full NordicTrack 1750 Commercial Treadmill Review.

Best Exercise Bike for Bad Knees: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

The ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14 is a high-tech, high-quality indoor bike. It has a 14” HD touchscreen display that swivels 180 degrees to accommodate workouts both on and off the bike. It comes with a three-year free subscription to iFit and features silent magnetic resistance making it a great option of in-home use.

Shop ProForm

Take the pressure off your knees and joints by saddling up on the ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14 — one of our picks for the best exercise bikes for small spaces — giving you access to a cardio routine without stress-inducing weight-bearing exercise. This bike features a 14-inch HD touchscreen to stream scenic rides and spin classes via the integrated iFIT app. Tech capabilities, adjustability, ergonomics, and value scored a 4 out of 5.

While iFIT typically costs $39 a month for a subscription, the purchase of this bike includes a free three-year membership. “ProForm’s Pro models basically cover the cost of iFIT and provide the equipment for free, allowing a more affordable option for those looking to take spin classes from home,” mentions our tester, a certified personal trainer. They scored value a 4 out of 5.

What’s more, the 14-inch HD touchscreen can tilt and pivot, allowing for an ergonomic viewing experience on the bike or off of it, making it easy to take advantage of iFIT’s yoga, bodyweight workouts, and recovery options. However, “Some may find the 14-inch touchscreen to be too small,” mentions our tester, especially when compared to the 21.5-inch touchscreen found on the Peloton Bike. Tech capabilities scored a 4 out of 5.

One benefit of the smaller screen, though, is the bike’s footprint and portability, which scored a 4 out of 5. At 116 pounds and taking up 8.78 square feet of floor space — a little smaller than a standard coffee table — our tester had no problem moving this bike around. (6) However, there’s only a 250-pound user weight capacity, lower than the industry standard of 300 pounds.

Dual-sided pedals allow you to clip in with SPD cycling shoes or slip your tennis shoes into straps, and you’ll receive a pair of 3-pound dumbbells to add some upper-body work to your routine. However, if you’re looking to track your heart rate, you may be disappointed by the lack of pulse sensors or a heart rate monitor.

[Related: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 Review]

Best Elliptical for Bad Knees: Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical can be a great starter machine thanks to its approachable price tag, intuitive controls, and dual-handlebar design. Its 18-inch stride length and 300-pound weight capacity can also make it accessible for many athletes.

Shop Horizon Fitness

An elliptical can help keep you on track with your cardio goals while keeping your workout low-impact to protect your knees. The Horizon EX-59, one of the best ellipticals for heavy people we’ve tested, delivers an ergonomic 18-inch stride, a 300-pound user weight capacity, and a reasonable price tag under $1,000. Value, conveniences, and ergonomics scored a 4 out of 5.

Using an elliptical is a weight-bearing exercise, however, since your feet remain glued to the pedals, it’s easier on bad knees. While the pedals are large, we do wish that there was some padding or adjustability to fine-tune a comfortable fit. Ergonomics and adjustability scored a 4 out of 5.

Moving padded handlebars get your upper body in on your cardio routine as you power through built-in programs like Distance, Calories, Weight Loss, and Intervals. “There are five preset programs you can take with this elliptical, but the LCD screen is pretty basic,” says our tester, a certified personal trainer. “While the flywheel is only 14.3 pounds, my workout was smooth and there wasn’t any shifting or shaking.” Durability scored a 3 out of 5 due to the flywheel, as it’s smaller than the industry standard of 16 pounds.

For the budget-friendly cost, we were especially impressed with the lifetime frame warranty. “Just a little peace of mind for the longevity of your equipment,” says our tester, who scored the warranty a 4.5 out of 5.

Read our full Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review.

Best Rowing Machine for Bad Knees: Concept2 RowErg

Concept2 RowErg

Concept2 RowErg

The Concept2 RowErg is one of the most tried and true rowers on the market. The "erg" (as it's commonly known) provides a double-dose of conditioning and muscular endurance, and is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and a nifty monitor to track meters rowed and calories burned. 

Shop Concept2

The Concept2 RowErg, one of the best rowing machines we’ve tested, may be the most popular rowing machine out there. It’s an affordable, durable, low-impact, chain-drive machine with 10 levels of adjustable resistance, and it’s utilized in home gyms and commercial gyms across the world. “Most professional rowers train with air rowers like the Concept2,” notes BarBend editorial member and former collegiate rower Lauren Keary.

Typically, taller individuals subject their knees to more torque and heavier individuals place more stress on their joints. (7) If you fall into one of these two camps, you may be relieved to find that the Concept2 RowErg can accommodate users up to 6 feet 9 inches tall and 500 pounds. “One of our testers is 6 feet 7 inches tall, and he felt super comfortable on this rower,” says our tester. 

The only discomfort we’d note relates to the seat. “There are grooves to fit your butt, but the seat is made from a hard plastic and can be uncomfortable for new rowers,” says our tester, who scored ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5. When I’ve hopped onto this rower at my gym, the pain in my butt is the first thing that makes me stop my workout. And sure, maybe I’m also tired from my second set of 500-meter sprints, but it’s still worth calling out. 

This rower features a chain drive, which requires more maintenance and is noisier than belt drive rowers. However, these drive systems are meant to hold up to a larger frequency of use than the competition. Durability scored a 4.5 out of 5.

While you won’t find a touchscreen to stream programming, the PM5 monitor allows you to track training metrics like distance, speed, stroke rate, calories burned, and watts. It also offers a variety of training options and even some games. “I appreciate the level of detail the monitor provides during training,” adds BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger. 

Read our full Concept2 RowErg Review.

Benefits of Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

Home exercise equipment that doesn’t exacerbate knee pain can bring with it the benefits of cardio, including strengthened hearts, uplifted moods, and weight management. (3)(8) Additionally, some types of exercise can even help alleviate knee pain. Here are a few of the benefits of exercise equipment for bad knees.

• Comfort: “While it is best to talk to a movement specialist such as a physical therapist before beginning a new exercise routine if you have injuries or joint conditions, you may be pleased to know that there are plenty of [pieces of equipment] on the market that are able to ease the joint pain commonly associated with walking and running,” says our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto. Knee-friendly equipment often includes padding beneath the running belt and on the pedals and seats, not to mention loads of adjustability options. 
• Controlled Training: Home gym equipment provides you with a “controlled environment for rehabilitation and training,” says Capritto. You’re in charge of your intensity and training, and you can dictate your resistance settings based on how good or bad your knees and joints feel.
• Decreased Pain: Regular physical exercise can help relieve pain and stiffness in your joints, help you reduce weight to lessen stress on your joints, and ultimately help strengthen the muscles that support your knees. (2)

How Much Does Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees Cost?

How much do ellipticals cost? What about recumbent bikes and rowing machines? Exercise equipment can range in cost from a few hundred dollars up to several thousands. To support users with various budgets, our list ranges in price from under $1,000 up to $2,299. 

What to Consider Before Buying Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do my knees hurt when I run,” consider low-impact and cushioned equipment to help you get your heart rate up while still supporting your joints. However, for those with knee injuries, it’s ideal to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the best exercise equipment for you and your body. Consider the following areas once you’re ready to bring a piece of equipment into your home.

Recumbent Exercise Bikes

Cycling is an awesome cardio workout for those dealing with knee problems, and a recumbent bike adds even more support with a backrest and reclined seated position. “The reclined position reduces stress on the lumbar spine and does not require as much flexibility in the hip joints,” says our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto.

Elliptical Machines

“For those who need low-impact exercise options, ellipticals sit near the top of the list,” says Capritto. “These cardio machines provide a full-body workout without putting undue stress on the joints.”

What’s more, ellipticals can also get your upper body in on your workout, allowing you to push and pull on the handles, targeting your arms, shoulders, chest, and core.

[Related: What Muscles Does An Elliptical Work?]

Rowers

“Rowing is so cool because it is a full-body, low-impact workout,” mentions Jacqueline Owens, former D1 rower and current Row House coach. “Unlike other cardio machines, rowing will target your glutes, quads, back, lats, and shoulders with every stroke you take.” 

While being low-impact and non-weight-bearing, it’s important to consider that rowing may not be suitable for those with back problems. Capritto agrees, “​​The seated exercising position combined with the hip hinging involved in the rowing stroke is not ideal for individuals with lower back pain.”

Spin Bikes

“From people who are looking to generally improve their health, individuals who require low-impact cardio exercise, and competitive athletes, indoor stationary bikes provide excellent workout opportunities,” says Capritto. 

Consider if you’re interested in an exercise bike with streaming capabilities so you can follow along with trainers through scenic landscapes or in a more studio-like spin class setting. App subscriptions tend to cost a monthly fee between $11 and $44.

Cushioned Treadmills

“A treadmill with a cushioned deck provides comfort during exercise that can’t be found on pavement or trails,” says Capritto. “For people with bad knees, a cushioned treadmill might be the only option for participating in weight-bearing cardio exercise.” 

While a treadmill wouldn’t be our first recommendation for those suffering from knee pain, only you can know what you’re capable of, and a treadmill with extra cushioning may be exactly what you need.

Strength Training

You can reap the benefit of strength training via cardio equipment — rowers, cross trainers, and air bikes are specifically made to help work your lower and upper body — but you may be considering your options for knee-friendly types of exercise to focus on building muscle without the added cardiovascular workout. 

While loading up a squat rack may not be in your best interest, you can use resistance training to add load once you’re ready for more than bodyweight exercises. Resistance bands can help you target your leg muscles, strengthening the support system surrounding your knees without adding too much stress. (2)

Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees FAQs

References

1. Rehabilitation, C. (2021, August 4). Knee Pain Statistics and Causes – Classic Rehabilitation. Classic Rehabilitation. https://classicrehabilitation.com/knee-pain-statistics-and-causes/
2. 10 tips for Healthy knees and Strong joints As you Age | Arthritis Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/joint-protection/tips-for-healthy-knees
3. Basso, J. C., Oberlin, D. J., Satyal, M. K., O’Brien, C. E., Crosta, C., Psaras, Z., Metpally, A., & Suzuki, W. A. (2022). Examining the Effect of Increased Aerobic Exercise in Moderately Fit Adults on Psychological State and Cognitive Function. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 16, 833149. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2022.833149
4. Gkastaris, K., Goulis, D. G., Potoupnis, M., Anastasilakis, A. D., & Kapetanos, G. (2020). Obesity, osteoporosis and bone metabolism. Journal of musculoskeletal & neuronal interactions, 20(3), 372–381.
5. Harvard Health. (2019, December 11). Why weight matters when it comes to joint pain. https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/why-weight-matters-when-it-comes-to-joint-pain
6. Abbas, A. (2021, December 15). Standard sizes for various types of furniture. The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/standard-furniture-measurements-1391374
7. Hunter, D. J., Niu, J., Zhang, Y., Nevitt, M. C., Xu, L., Lui, L. Y., Yu, W., Aliabadi, P., Buchanan, T. S., & Felson, D. T. (2005). Knee height, knee pain, and knee osteoarthritis: the Beijing Osteoarthritis Study. Arthritis and rheumatism, 52(5), 1418–1423. https://doi.org/10.1002/art.21017
8. Swift, D. L., McGee, J. E., Earnest, C. P., Carlisle, E., Nygard, M., & Johannsen, N. M. (2018). The Effects of Exercise and Physical Activity on Weight Loss and Maintenance. Progress in cardiovascular diseases, 61(2), 206–213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2018.07.014

The post The 5 Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees of 2024 (Tested by Trainers) appeared first on BarBend.

Our team of certified fitness professionals got climbing on these mini steppers to help you navigate the best options on the market. Whether you’re looking for some desk exercise between Zoom calls or are a beginner looking for low-impact total-body work to do while watching “90 Day Fiancé,” we’ve got you covered with our favorite picks.

The 5 Best Under-Desk Stair Steppers of 2024

• Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper Overall: Sportsroyals Stair Stepper
• Best Budget Under-Desk Stair Stepper: Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper
• Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper with Resistance Bands: Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber
• Best Portable Under-Desk Stair Stepper: Niceday Steppers
• Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper for Heavy People: Xiser Pro Trainer

How We Tested and Chose the Best Under-Desk Stair Steppers

The BarBend roster is filled with competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lovers of all things cardio and strength. In an effort to find the best products for your consideration, we’ve tested over 150 pieces of cardio equipment. Using the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology, we scored each product on a scale of 1 (yikes) to 5 (nice!) in areas like durability, construction, and value. 

• Footprint: The under-desk steppers on our list needed to have profiles that could slip snugly in small spaces. As such, we chose options with footprints between 1.17 and 2.46 square feet — roughly the size of a toaster oven. (2)
• Portability: For those interested in working out from their desks, we opted for steppers with lightweight builds between 13.5 and 20 pounds that could easily be moved around by most able-bodied people. 
• Stability: Under-desk stair steppers aren’t designed to withstand high-intensity exercise, but we sought to include options with large non-slip pedals, wide bases, and, whenever possible, durable builds of alloy steel or aluminum. 
• Value: Options on our list range from $69.99 up to $577, a range wide enough to suit budgets big and small. Regardless, these models will cost you a great deal less than the best treadmills or ellipticals on the market. 

Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper Overall: Sportsroyals Stair Stepper

Sportsroyals Stair Stepper

Sportsroyals Stair Stepper

Its quiet hydraulic drive system and oversized pedals have made it a favorite on Amazon. Use the removable resistance bands to add upper body exercises while you step. Its LED monitor lets you keep an eye on your step count, calories burned, and time.

Shop Sportsroyals

Unlike typical under-desk stair steppers, there’s a twist to the Sportsroyals Stair Stepper — quite literally. During use, the slightly angled pedal stroke swings your hips from side to side as you step. According to the brand, this motion can help target your thighs and buttocks. If you’re stuck at your standing desk looking for an affordable way to log some steps, this mini cardio machine may be right for you. 

While many steppers can bang and clang against the floor, this stair stepper utilizes rubber shock-absorbing pads to limit noise from each step. It’s also, in our opinion, one of the best compact stair steppers, weighing only 19.8 pounds and taking up 2.46 square feet — roughly the same footprint as a typical nightstand. (3)

We also like that this stepper comes with a set of removable resistance bands, which allow the user to work their upper body with bicep curls, upright rows, and lateral lifts. We do, though, wish this stepper allowed users to adjust its resistance. 

Since resistance is set, customer reviews were mixed on how well this set resistance suited their training. “The steps have a nice, strong resistance… if you don’t like a challenge, try something else,” reads one five-star review. “I didn’t realize that it didn’t have different resistance levels,” says another. “For that reason alone, I may return it.”

The LED monitor tracks your steps, time, distance, and calories burned, so you can manage your output and effort from one workout to the next. However, some customer reviews have noted a problem with this tracker not working. “Seemed to be a good machine [but] the monitor went out the second day,” mentioned a review. Try replacing the AA battery if you run into the same problem.

Lastly, the manual warns that the hydraulics can get hot after 20 minutes of use. While this is a common complaint with mini steppers, it’s worth noting. Might we suggest short HIIT workouts that you can knock out before it heats up?

Best Budget Under-Desk Stair Stepper: Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper

Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper

Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper

Its footprint of 1.36 square feet is roughly 63 percent more compact than the average stepper. At just 15.2 pounds, it’s a lightweight and easy-to-transport unit.

Shop Sunny Health & Fitness

Sunny Health & Fitness provides affordable and reliable fitness equipment. I’ve been a long-time fan of the brand’s cost-saving equipment — shout out to the SF-B1002 exercise bike, which I love. As such, the Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper is our choice for the best budget under-desk stair stepper, with non-slip foot pedals to keep you locked in on each step and removable resistance bands so you can crank out bicep curls and forward and lateral raises for an upper-body strength-training session.

[Related: Sunny Health & Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

The average under-desk stair stepper tends to cost around $100, so this $79.99 mini-stepper can save you some dough when you want to get a workout from your work or home office.

“I have to say, it’s a sneaky butt-kicker. I wasn’t expecting much from such a budget-friendly and tiny machine, especially because it only supports users up to 220 pounds, but my legs and glutes were burning,” said Matt Cummings, BarBend editorial member, who likes to use this stepper for 15-minute sessions. “For the price, I think this thing has a ton of value, especially since it’s about the size of a small laundry basket.” Portability and value scored a 5 out of 5.

A dual hydraulic-drive system with adjustable step height allows you to fine-tune your training intensity. hydraulics tend to be featured on more cost-friendly cardio equipment, and they can get hot due to friction. Sunny Health & Fitness recommends only using this stepper for 15-minute sessions to avoid overheating.

“The resistance bands were fine, but they weren’t long enough for me to press overhead,” said Cummings, who scored his workout experience a 3 out of 5. “However, my wife really likes the bands, and when she’s not doing curls she uses them to help keep her balance.”

Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper with Resistance Bands: Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber

Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber Machine

Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber Machine

With three included sets of resistance bands, you can engage your upper body and lower body during your workout. It takes up just 1.32 square feet of space, making it easy to set down and start stepping.

Shop Nordic Lifting

The Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber is one of the best mini stair steppers we’ve tested, due in no small part to the three pairs of resistance bands that come with it. The 20-inch, 28-inch, and 39-inch bands can be attached to the machine, allowing for upper-body exercises like bicep curls and lateral raises. 

“I do like the variety of resistance bands that it comes with and the [20-inch] ones are great for balance. Once you get moving you can do arm curls well,” noted one Amazon reviewer. 

However, these bands attach to the machine with plastic carabiners, which we don’t like since they’re not nearly as durable as ones made from steel and aluminum. The latter carabiners often include kilonewton measurements that can tell you how much weight they can withstand — we wish these plastic ones offered the same. (4) “The plastic on the clip bent the opposite way and the band came flying off. It’s a wonder it didn’t put my eye out,” reads another customer review. 

(If a carabiner or band breaks or you notice a ton of squeaking from the hydraulics — an issue some customers have complained about — Nordic does provide a “hassle-free” one-year warranty.)

At only 1.32 square feet, a little smaller than a 16-inch MacBook Pro, this mini stepper can easily slide under your desk after an office workout. Its lightweight 15.4-pound frame can be easily carried around should you want to squeeze in steps from another room.

“I put this in the living room and try to use it during commercial breaks, during TV show theme songs, or… whenever I want,” reads a customer review. The only downside, it noted, was the inability to adjust resistance. “[Without adjustments] at first, it feels like no effort at all, but after a few minutes it gets harder and you realize you are getting in real exercise,” they said.

Best Portable Under-Desk Stair Stepper: Niceday Steppers

Niceday Steppers

Niceday Steppers

This affordable mini-stepper uses hydraulics to create resistance and features attachable bands for an upper-body workout. Weighing only 16 pounds, you can easily move this wherever you want to get your steps from.

Shop Amazon

If you’re looking to tackle 10,000 steps a day from your desk and then keep the cardio party going with some work in front of the TV, you’ll want a portable stair stepper that can be easily carried from room to room. The Niceday Steppers is our choice for the best portable under-desk stair stepper thanks to a 16-pound build that should be easy for most able-bodied athletes to transport. 

It has a footprint of 1.17 square feet, a little larger than a square 12-inch decorative pillow. “The size is also really nice since you can store it away pretty easily so I just tuck mine under my coffee table and pull it out when I want to use it,” reads one customer review.

The 5- to 15-inch step-height adjustment allows users to fine-tune their lower-body workout. If you have knee pain when you step, you can lower the step height to potentially help take strain off your knees. Or, if you want a more quad-focused workout, you can increase the step height for a larger range of motion. (5) 

When it’s time to get the upper body in on the work, the removable resistance bands can be used for bicep curls or lateral raises. However, some customers have complained about these bands not being durable. One customer review noted, “I bought these steppers and used them for a month, then the cable snapped. Exchanged for a new one, worked for about two months, then the cable snapped.”

As is the case with hydraulic steppers, the hydraulics can heat up with extended use. Be careful if you’re looking to move this stepper around after your workout because the friction of the hydraulics can get hot. “I burnt myself trying to move it after working out for 25 minutes,” mentioned a review.

Best Under-Desk Stair Stepper for Heavy People: Xiser Pro Trainer

Xiser Pro Trainer

Xiser Pro Trainer

Its aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame provides a stable workout for users up to 400 pounds, despite weighing just 13.5 pounds. 

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While under-desk stair steppers tend to be budget-friendly exercise machines that only support users between 220 and 300 pounds, the Xiser Pro Trainer has a user weight capacity of 400 pounds. As such, heavier athletes can reap the benefits of cardio exercise, including lifted moods, reduced anxiety, and weight loss. (6)

While most mini-steppers tend to be built with a mixture of plastic parts, aluminum, and alloy steel, this 13.5-pound beast — easy to carry and 4 pounds lighter than the average mini-stepper — uses aircraft-grade aluminum alloy for the pedals and frame so users of heavier builds can feel stable and supported throughout their workout. Plus, unlike most mini stair steppers, this unit has adjustable modes of resistance that can support progressive overload. 

However, this quality build comes at a hefty price. At $577, it’s more than $400 more expensive than the average under-desk stepper. One thing we think some users may also miss from typical mini-steppers is the ability to track your training metrics. You won’t find an LCD monitor on the Xiser Pro to do so.

Reviews on the machine’s noise are split, with some complaining about squeaks and others saying that with proper technique you shouldn’t experience any noise.

“[It] started making clicking and squeaking noises after two months of use as mentioned by many other reviewers,” mentioned a customer. Another replied, “This can be avoided by the user with the technique of riding the thing advised by the manufacturer,” said another. If you’re curious about that technique, there are videos available online from Xiser that can help you get the hang of it. 

Benefits of Under-Desk Stair Steppers

BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto says, “People who want to exercise at home but don’t have a lot of space to dedicate to a home gym can benefit from compact gym equipment.” Under-desk stair steppers are nothing if not compact. Here are some benefits of having one in your home or office. 

• Approachable Cost: Unlike the best ellipticals, treadmills, and vertical climbers, under-desk steppers provide access to low-impact cardio training without selling the farm. These compact stair stepper machines tend to cost around $100, which is a drop in the bucket compared to full-sized cardio machines, which can cost upwards of $1,000 to $2,000. 
• Space Saving: With profiles ranging from 1.17 to 2.46 square feet, users can utilize whatever space they have available when they want to get their heart rate up. Capritto says this about compact equipment: “Many people are making do with what they have: A corner of their bedroom, a sliver of living room, maybe a spare walk-in closet.”
• Versatile: Set up your under-desk stepper under a standing desk to log a stepper workout during your workday. Or, thanks to their lightweight builds, you can take your workout in front of the TV for a new season of “The Golden Bachelor.”

How Much Do Under-Desk Stair Steppers Cost?

You won’t need to max out your credit card on an under-desk stair stepper, as they don’t cost nearly as much as the best cardio machines. Our picks range in price from $69.99 up to $577, with higher-priced models featuring more sturdy builds that can support a higher user weight capacity.

What to Consider Before Buying an Under-Desk Stair Stepper

How much are you willing to spend? What are your fitness goals? What type of training are you looking to tackle? Mull over these questions while you peruse what to consider before bringing a compact step machine into your home.

Under-Desk Stair Steppers Vs. Stair Climbers

If you’re torn between an under-desk stair stepper and a proper stair climber, the first question you’ll want to ask is how much space do you have. Under-desk steppers are more compact than their bigger siblings, with footprints of a typical stair stepper logging in at around 12 square feet. That’s almost 10 square feet larger than the 1 to 3 square-foot profiles of the under-desk stair steppers we’ve listed. Additionally, even the best affordable stair climbers can cost up to $4,000.

Most stair-climbing machines feature handrails and consoles, so utilizing one of these beasts from your workstation might pose a problem. However, stair-climbing machines do provide a wider range of training capabilities, with more available levels of resistance and built-in workouts accessible via their Bluetooth-enabled touchscreens or LCD displays. As such, they’re designed for those really looking to sweat. An under-desk stepper, on the other hand, won’t provide the same level of challenge and is designed for low-intensity work to help you stay active. 

Weight Capacity

You’ll also want to take into account your weight and the weight capacity offered on the stepper of your dreams. The options on our list can support users between 220 and 400 pounds. While machines with weight capacities closer to 350 and 400 pounds will cost more, they’ll often be quieter in operation and stand up to more workouts than a less-durable model.

Available Space

Even when purchasing the best compact exercise equipment, it’s best to know the size of both the equipment and the dimensions of the space where you intend to use it. While our list of under-desk stair steppers features compact machines ranging in size from 1.17 to 2.46 square feet, you’ll still need to make sure it’ll work with your space. 

Capritto agrees. “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable. And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!” she emphasizes. 

What About Under-Desk Treadmills, Ellipticals, and Bikes?

If you know you want a cardio device that can be used at your desk, you’ll want to nail down what type of cardio machine is best for you. In addition to under-desk stair steppers, it’s worth perusing the best under-desk treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes as well.

Under-desk treadmills, or walking pads, can be used for longer durations than under-desk stair steppers. I like to use my under-desk treadmill at a low speed for about two or three hours throughout the day while I write. In comparison, the hydraulics often used on mini steppers tend to heat up after 15 to 30 minutes of use, so you’ll be limited to short bursts of exercise. 

That said, under-desk steppers beat out treadmills when it comes to convenience since mini steppers can be easily carried and don’t need to be plugged in.

Under-desk ellipticals and under-desk bikes are pedal exercisers and typically require the user to be seated while they workout. Since you’re seated, using these machines isn’t a weight-bearing exercise. This kind of low-impact cardio may be ideal for those with hip or knee problems, though you’ll lose out on the weight-bearing, bone-building benefits of a mini stair stepper. (7)

Under-Desk Stair Steppers FAQs

References

1. Hongu, N., Shimada, M., Miyake, R., Nakajima, Y., Nakajima, I., & Yoshitake, Y. (2019). Promoting Stair Climbing as an Exercise Routine among Healthy Older Adults Attending a Community-Based Physical Activity Program. Sports (Basel, Switzerland), 7(1), 23. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports7010023
2. KitchenAid. (2023, July 10). TOASTER OVEN AND COUNTERTOP OVEN SIZES AND DIMENSIONS. KitchenAid. https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/countertop-appliances/toaster-oven-dimensions.html
3. Nightstand dimensions: How to choose the right nightstand size for your bedroom | Wayfair. (2022, April 6). Wayfair. https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/nightstand-dimensions-how-to-choose-the-right-nightstand-size-for-your-bedroom-T12031#:~:text=Standard%3A%20With%20a%20width%20that,%2D%20or%20queen%2Dsized%20beds.&text=Wide%3A%20Wide%20nightstands%20are%20more,king%20or%20California%20king%20beds.
4. Crew, I. (2016, May 27). Types of Carabiners & What KN ratings Mean | ITS tactical. ITS Tactical. https://www.itstactical.com/skillcom/climbing/types-of-carabiners-and-what-kn-ratings-mean/
5. Stairs and your knees. (n.d.-b). Hingehealth. https://www.hingehealth.com/resources/articles/stairs-knees/
6. Mersy D. J. (1991). Health benefits of aerobic exercise. Postgraduate medicine, 90(1), 103–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1991.11700983
7. Benedetti, M. G., Furlini, G., Zati, A., & Letizia Mauro, G. (2018). The Effectiveness of Physical Exercise on Bone Density in Osteoporotic Patients. BioMed research international, 2018, 4840531. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/4840531

The post The 5 Best Under-Desk Stair Steppers of 2024 (Expert Reviewed) appeared first on BarBend.

Whether you’re looking to slot one in your commercial gym or bring one of these heavy-duty machines home, we’ve put some of the best commercial stair masters to the test. Taking into consideration their features, specs, and onboard technology, our team put together a list of our favorites to help you find the match for your space, wallet, and fitness goals. Check out what our team thought about our time on the best commercial stair climbers.

The 8 Best Commercial Stair Climbers of 2024

• Best Commercial Stair Climber Overall: Jacobs Ladder The Stairway GTL
• Best Versatile Commercial Stair Climber: NordicTrack FS10i
• Best Commercial Stair Climber for Trainer-Led Workouts: ProForm Pro HIIT H14
• Best Commercial Stair Climber for Comfort: Bells of Steel Blitz Stepper
• Best Commercial Stair Climber for Streaming: STEPR+
• Best Budget Commercial Stair Climber: Echelon Stair Climber Sport
• Best Vertical Commercial Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02
• Best Compact Commercial Stair Climber: Bowflex Max Trainer M6

How We Tested and Chose the Best Commercial Stair Climbers

BarBend’s roster of fitness pros includes certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive athletes. For each of the 22 stair climbers we tested, we applied a rating of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across categories like durability, value, and footprint. Below are some of the key components we looked at when choosing the best commercial stair climbers. 

For more information on how we test all our products, check out the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Durability and Stability: The commercial models on our list feature heavy-duty steel frames that can withstand constant use and support steady workouts. These models have weight capacities ranging from 275 to 375 pounds, making them accessible for a range of different body types.
• Footprint: When we put together our list, we were mindful of the floor space each stair climber requires and listed each model’s dimensions. Most stair climbers eat up around 11 to 13 square feet — about the size of a loveseat — while slimmer options only take up roughly 9 or 10 square feet — closer to a recliner. (4)(5)
• Value: With varying tech capabilities and unique designs, the stair climbers on our list range from just $799.99 up to $7,495. We assessed the value of each option by scrutinizing the quality of its build, its resistance range, and the utility of its technology.

Best Commercial Stair Climber Overall: Jacobs Ladder The Stairway GTL

Jacobs The Stairway

Jacobs The Stairway

You can control the speed of the steps on this machine's display with up and down buttons. The Stairway is self-powered, and narrow enough to fit through most doorways. 

Shop Get RXD

Whether you’re stocking your own training space with the best home gym equipment or outfitting a commercial facility, expect the Jacobs Ladder The Stairway GTL to be around for the long haul. This absolute unit is built to sustain heavy usage for years to come. Its powder-coated steel frame supports a true rotating stairway — sometimes called a “stepmill” — creating the feeling of climbing an actual staircase. The user-powered design also eliminates the need to connect to a wall outlet, providing the freedom to arrange your space how you see fit.

So, how does it work? When you first step aboard and press start, the Stairway GTL calculates your weight to track your calories burned on the LCD display. As you climb, an onboard generator powers the steps’ rotation. Older models used a waist belt to regulate the speed of the stairs, but the GTL uses a closed speed loop, which you control with simple up and down buttons. Once you start getting tired and lean forward, that system keeps the speed consistent regardless of how your body weight may shift.

Aside from its heavy-duty build, what sets the Stairway GTL apart from stair climbers designed for home use is that it uses actual steps as opposed to pedals meant to simulate climbing stairs. It feels like you’re climbing stairs because, well, you are. 

Despite only eating up about as much floor space as a recliner, there are always three full steps available as you climb, allowing you to skip a step during your workout if you so choose. (5) Its 30.5-inch width also makes it narrow enough to roll through most doorways. (6)

What you won’t find onboard the Stairway GTL is a glistening touchscreen pumping out virtual workouts. Another odd omission is the lack of a warranty for the frame, although we wouldn’t anticipate any issues and haven’t discovered any common problems with the frame among customer reviews. 

Best Versatile Commercial Stair Climber: NordicTrack FS10i

NordicTrack FS10i

NordicTrack FS10i

This machine is a stair climber, elliptical and treadmill all in one. It has 24 levels of digital resistance, and you can change your stride to work with the resistance in tread, elliptical, or stair climber mode. 

Shop NordicTrack

The three-in-one design of the NordicTrack FS10i combines the functionality of a stair climber, elliptical, and treadmill, giving this machine a unique level of versatility in the gym. Multiple BarBend testers have taken it for a spin, including a CrossFit Level-1 instructor who thought two of those modes may be more effective than the other.

“While it’s a learned skill set to swap between stepping and gliding mid-workout, I felt I could master it after just a few sessions,” they said. “I’d use this FS10i for stepping and elliptical work more than running though, as it can be awkward to jog without ever lifting your feet from the oversized pedals.”

As another BarBend tester, Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, demonstrates, the responsive pedals are what ties the whole machine together.

While the 26 resistance levels and 10-percent incline range were the foundation for our ratings for adjustability (4 out of 5) and customizations (5 out of 5), iFIT’s SmartAdjust feature was icing on the cake. “If you’re doing a trainer-led workout, you don’t have to worry about it at all because it’s going to automatically adjust on its own,” Herod said.

The FS10i’s versatility also helps maximize iFIT’s $39.99 monthly subscription. With a library of over 17,000 workouts, including scenic walks and hikes, iFIT’s programming consistently earns ratings of 5 out of 5 from our team. Herod says this much variety will keep you coming back for more. “You’re never going to get bored or run out of possibilities when it comes to workouts,” he said. 

While the FS10i’s steel build helped it score a 5 out of 5 rating for durability, Herod suggests parking this 284-pound machine in one spot. “It’s definitely not easy to move around,” he said. “The legs can’t lock into place, so sometimes when I’m moving it they kind of bump into me, which is annoying.”  The FS10i garnered just a 3.75 out of 5 for portability. 

Read our full NordicTrack FS10i Review.

Best Commercial Stair Climber for Trainer-Led Workouts: ProForm Pro HIIT H14

ProForm Pro HIIT H14

ProForm Pro HIIT H14

This unique profile combines a stair climber and elliptical for a space-saving, high-performance training experience. The Pro HIIT H14 is also integrated with the iFIT online workout program, giving you access to over 17,000 live and on-demand fitness classes.

Shop ProForm

The crystal-clear 14-inch touchscreen on the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 helps bring iFIT’s library of over 17,000 workouts to life. Whether its a scenic hike through the Grand Canyon (my personal favorite) or a pulse-pumping studio classes, these classes are led by iFIT’s lineup of certified trainers. 

Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 coach, highlighted the display when rating its tech capabilities 4 out of 5. However, it was the quality of iFIT’s workouts that stole the show. “The touchscreen is clear and it’s nice being able to swivel it,” they said. “But the belle of the ball is iFIT’s programming.” Our whole team, including yours truly, consistently rates iFIT programming a 5 out of 5.

The H14’s hybrid design theoretically combines a stair climber and an elliptical, but our tester doesn’t think it’s an even split. “I would absolutely call this a stepper machine before calling it an elliptical,” they said. “It’s definitely not as bulky as an elliptical — much taller than it is wide — but I was very impressed with how sturdy it was.” 

[Related: Best Compact Ellipticals]

Where most commercial stair climbers take up roughly as much room as a typical loveseat, the H14’s footprint of 10.47 square feet footprint is closer to that of a recliner. (5) Its 224-pound weight, however, could make moving it around a little tough, which prompted a 3.5 out of 5 rating for footprint and portability. 

“I definitely wouldn’t call this thing ‘light,’” they said. “Most people shouldn’t have trouble rolling it around a room, but if you’re going up or down any stairs, call a friend.”

Considering an iFIT membership will set you back an additional $39.99 per month, the H14 earned a 3.5 out of 5 for value from our team. “At $1,700, it is definitely not cheap, but it’s really a high-tech machine,” they said. “iFIT’s trainer-led programming truly makes it one of the best fitness apps out there.”

Read our full ProForm Pro HIIT 14 Review.

Best Commercial Stair Climber for Comfort: Bells of Steel Blitz Stepper

Bells of Steel Blitz Stepper

Bells of Steel Blitz Stepper

Torch calories and fat with this stair-climbing machine that features 15 levels of magnetic resistance. Unlike revolving style stair climbers, this stepper's motion is more reminiscent of an elliptical with a vertical stride length to keep you climbing upwards.

Shop Bells of Steel

Along with its oversized textured pedals and padded handles, the Bells of Steel Blitz Stepper’s hybrid design mashes together the vertical nature of stair climbers with the low-impact workouts of ellipticals. Compared to the revolving steps you’ll find on many commercial stair climbers, this unique machine uses rollers that glide along steel rails. All in all, this is easily one of the most comfortable steppers we’ve used. 

On their own, stair climbers and ellipticals are two of the best cardio machines to help save your knees a bit of stress, but as certified personal trainer Jesse Zucker, NCSF-CPT, explains, hybrid machines like the Blitz Stepper can offer the best of both worlds. “The elliptical and the stair climber are both low-impact workouts, but… since your feet stay on the pedals, you’re not adding extra shock or force to your joints even as you increase the intensity,” they explain. (7)

The Blitz Stepper’s steel frame supports users up to 330 pounds — roughly 30 pounds higher than the industry standard — and its lifetime frame warranty indicates Bells of Steel believes in its durability. With foot plates large enough for size 24 men’s shoes, not only would Shaq slip in under the weight capacity, but his size 22s would have room to spare.

We just received our Blitz Stepper, so we’ll update this review once we’ve had a chance to step through its 15 levels of resistance. Fifteen is a little low when compared to other hybrid stair climber and elliptical machines we’ve tested, which tend to offer between 16 and 26 resistance levels. Also, at this price point, we’d also expect a touchscreen with streaming capabilities over this machine’s LED display, though we do appreciate that it includes a handful of preset programs. 

Best Commercial Stair Climber for Streaming: STEPR+

STEPR Classic

STEPR Classic

STEPR created this climbing machine to be able to fit in the average home — with dimensions that can both fit through typical doorways and a height that allows users to step when faced with ceiling heights as low as 8 feet tall. This is a more compact version of the stair climbers you tend to see in commercial gyms, with Bluetooth capabilities to connect and stream with the free STEPR app.

Shop STEPR

If catching up on a show or movie sounds like a welcome distraction from a heart-pounding stair climb, the 27-inch HD touchscreen on the STEPR+ goes above and beyond. As our tester discovered, a lot of the usual suspects — Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and more — come preloaded on the super-sized display. 

“It’s nice to just tap and stream whatever you want without fiddling with your own device,” they said. “But the best part? You don’t have to pay extra for it.” On some machines, you may have to subscribe just to access streamers like these, but on the STEPR+, the streaming world is your oyster.

Well, mostly. “They’ve been talking about coming out with a companion STEPR app, but for now, you have 36 preloaded workouts to follow,” our tester said. “So if you want to stream one of their workouts, it’s nice to follow along with a trainer for free.” 

Our tester doesn’t think these 36 workouts quite match the scenic hikes and walks from the best fitness apps. The available programming is still pretty good, though, and earned a 4 out of 5.

While the rotating-step design of the STEPR+ might remind you of traditional commercial stair climbers, our tester thinks its coffee-table-sized footprint makes it feasible for smaller spaces, too. (8) “STEPR took commercial stair-climbing machines, shrunk them down so they could fit in most homes,” they said, rating its footprint and portability 5 out of 5.

Our tester also noted that while its narrow profile allows it to roll through most doors, its compact nature created more than one limitation. “When you’re doing a stair master workout at the gym, you can typically skip a step. The compact design on the STEPR+ doesn’t really let you do that,” they said. “Each step is short, too — 5.2 inches. It didn’t take long to get used to, but if you usually take long steps, it’s something to keep in mind.” Ergonomics earned a 3.5 out of 5.

Best Budget Commercial Stair Climber: Echelon Stair Climber Sport

Echelon Climber Sport

Echelon Climber Sport

This climber can fold down when not in use, making storage under beds or in closets ideal for those short on space. There are three levels of manually adjustable incline and a turn knob to adjust resistance while you train. Track your progress with the built-in LED monitor or attach your phone to the device mount to stream programming.

Shop Echelon

At roughly $2,000 less than many commercial stair climbers we’ve tested, the $799.99 price tag on the Echelon Climber Sport is a welcome sight for budget-conscious athletes. Save for the four AA batteries to power the monitor, this user-powered stair-climber requires zero electricity. While its onboard tech won’t win it any accolades, it’s certainly one of the best affordable stair climbers we’ve tried out. 

In addition to folding into more budgets, the machine itself can fold up for easier storage. Its 55-inch height was already roughly 10 inches below average, but when folded, it shrinks down to just 11 inches. 

However, getting to that 11-inch height wasn’t a walk in the park for our tester, a certified personal trainer, leading to a 3 out of 5 rating for footprint and portability. “I appreciate that this stair stepper folds, but it’s not the most intuitive process,” they said. “There’s a lot of plastic knobs you have to twist and tighten.”

Another plastic knob lets you adjust the resistance, but the resistance levels themselves are not specified. As such, we scored it a 2 out of 5 for adjustability. 

At this price point, however, we were happy to see at least three levels of manual incline. At the highest level, though, our tester started to question its durability. “While on it, the climber feels sturdy, but thinking about the small hooks keeping the machine in its angled incline position makes me nervous,” they said.

Most commercial stair steppers hover around $2,800. So, for $799.99, our tester thought the Stair Climber Sport deserved a 4 out of 5 for overall value, despite what they hoped was a one-off issue. “I do think it’s one of the best compact stair steppers I’ve used, but I did hear this scraping sound on each step,” they said. “I’m not sure if this is a problem with this individual piece of cardio equipment, or if it’s a problem more users are facing.”

Best Vertical Commercial Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02

CLMBR Connected 02

CLMBR Connected 02

The CLMBR Connected 02 features adjustable handles for alternating grip positions, as well as a sturdy frame capable of holding up to 350 pounds. Additionally, there’s plenty of tech strewn across the profile, including an integrated app delivering on-demand classes, challenges, guides, and more.

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The vertical orientation of the CLMBR Connected 02 not only requires less floor space than typical commercial stair climbers, but the moving arms can also get your upper body in on the action. Its 11 levels of magnetic resistance also let you adjust the intensity when your arms and shoulders start barking. Its vertical design, and the total-body workouts it affords, prompted a 4 out of 5 rating for ergonomics from our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer.

In fact, seven total categories earned at least a 4 out of 5. While many of the best vertical climbers could be described as “utilitarian,” the 21-inch HD touchscreen on this model earned its tech capabilities a 5 out of 5 from our tester. “The screen is really great, and the ability to tilt it forward made it possible for me to view the screen while I took classes off of the trainer,” they said.

With the Premium-level CLMBR app subscription ($39 per month), you can access on-demand programming, challenges, and community-based features like competitions. Our tester rated CLMBR’s programming 5 out of 5, but noted that a membership may not be a prerequisite for everyone. 

“I also like that you can still operate the CLMBR in manual mode if a CLMBR app subscription is out of your budget. You can still generate a worthwhile workout experience, ” they said. “I will say, though, that I think the interactive programming is worth the $39.99 monthly charge.”

Given its vertical design, we paid extra attention to its stability. “I wasn’t worried about the machine falling or anything,” said our 6-foot-3-inch tester when they rated its durability 4.5 out of 5. 

We don’t anticipate long-term issues with the aluminum build, but the one-year warranty garnered just a 3.5 out of 5 from our team. Many cardio machines, including stair climbers, in this price range offer 10-year or lifetime frame warranties.

Read our full CLMBR Connected 02 Review.

Best Compact Commercial Stair Climber: Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Bowflex M6 Max Trainer

Bowflex M6 Max Trainer

Tight on space but still want to experience the low-impact benefits of elliptical training? The Bowflex M6 Max Trainer boasts a vertical orientation that shrinks the overall footprint to 8.31 square feet, yet the plane of motion can still be ideal for comfortable training with a heightened sense of muscle-boosting potential, especially across your posterior chain and legs.

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If most commercial stair climbers are roughly the size of a loveseat or recliner, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 compares more to an end table. (8) The 8.31 square feet it takes up is around 20 percent less than a typical stair climber, which helped make it some of the best compact exercise equipment we’ve used. 

Its footprint and portability also earned a 4.5 out of 5 from BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Kate Meier. “It’s super narrow and pretty compact overall, so it’s great for small spaces,” she said. 

Instead of climbing a rotating staircase, though, you’ll be pumping elliptical-style pedals. Meier rated the ergonomics and adjustability of its hybrid design a 4.5 out of 5. “It has both fixed handles and moving arms, plus the big textured pedals you’d see on an elliptical,” she says. While it may not quite feel like you’re marching up the Empire State Building, we think you’ll still be able to work up a sweat via the JRNY app. 

For about half the cost of fitness apps like iFIT ($39.99) or Peloton ($44), JRNY ($19.99) tailors M6-specific workouts that factor in your metrics and workout history. As Meier learned, these workouts can be sneaky butt-kickers. 

“This machine is designed for HIIT training and the JRNY workouts reflect that,” she said. “They are usually just 15 minutes or less and they really are killer.” Add in the five preset workouts, and its programming was dynamic enough to earn a 4.8 out of 5 from Meier.

However, since there’s no built-in touchscreen, those workouts require you to set up your own device on the media shelf. “I think it’s a little pricey for a machine that requires you to bring your own device,” she said, rating the Max Trainer M6’s 3.5 out of 5.

Read our full Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Review.

Benefits of Commercial Stair Climbers

As our expert reviewer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier explains, the workouts on tap from these machines are no joke. “Stair climbers are exceptional at boosting your heart rate, increasing muscular endurance in the lower body, and even potentially building some strength in the legs.” she says. “Even a short, 10-minute workout on a stair climber can send your heart rate soaring.”

• Durability: Commercial stair climbers have steel builds that are meant to hold up to consistent use over long periods of time. Since you’re investing a decent chunk of change, it’s nice to know you’ll be getting a machine you can count on for the long haul.
• Accessibility: Because climbing stairs is something we all do daily, you most likely won’t be learning new techniques, like, say, the stroke of a rowing machine. Meier adds, “Stair climbers are great for anyone looking to get an intense workout in a short amount of time.”
• Lower-Body Strength Training: In addition to being one of the best cardiovascular exercises, stair climbing can help target lower-body muscle groups like the quads, calves, and glutes. (3) This can provide a challenge to your legs on a machine more compact than most treadmills or ellipticals.

How Much Do Commercial Stair Climbers Cost?

The commercial stair climbers on our list range in price from $799.99 to $7,495. Higher-priced options typically offer the rock-solid durability to hold up to constant use, along with technology like touchscreens and dynamic programming. More budget-friendly models lack the frills of app-connected machines, but can still make you sweat. 

What to Consider Before Buying Commercial Stair Climbers

Before adding a commercial stair climber to your gym or home, make sure it falls within your budget, but also consider how it will fit in your space and how much use it will get. In the wise words of BarBend expert reviewer Kate Meier, “A machine is only good if you’ll use it.” Here are a few of the main considerations to keep in mind when you’re looking for your new commercial stair climber.

Price 

Depending on their builds or onboard technology, you can find commercial stair climbers for as little as $800 or as much as nearly $7,500. For the most part, these machines hover around $2,800, so before writing that check, consider just how much money you can afford to invest. 

The pricier options you’ll find lining the walls of commercial gyms are built for constant use from athletes of differing fitness levels, so if you’re stocking one of these gyms, the price tag may be justified. On the other hand, if your new stair climber is going to be a nice-to-have in a home or garage gym, you may be fine with a more affordable option.

Available Space 

While most fitness equipment is space-hungry, commercial stair climbers can be relatively compact. One factor to keep in mind, though, is their height. Many can be used under normal 8-foot ceilings, but double check the clearance your machine requires. Before you start planning out your stairmaster workouts, we also recommend measuring vertically and horizontally so you can operate your stair climber safely.

Usage Rate 

The hulking machines you’ll find in commercial gym settings are hulking for a reason. They need to support constant use from users of all fitness levels. Think about how often the stair climber on your wish list will be used, especially if you’re setting up a commercial gym or fitness center like those in apartment buildings or hotels. More expensive models typically have the commercial-grade steel builds to hold up to consistent usage.

Resistance Levels

A commercial stair climber with a wide range of resistance can offer the varied intensity to keep your cardio workouts challenging. As Meier describes, being able to up the resistance is a big part of the muscle-building potential of these machines.

“This wouldn’t be in the same way you could build muscle strength and power through doing loaded exercises like squats,” she says. “But you may still feel stronger in your legs when it comes specifically to climbing movements like walking uphill or climbing stairs.”

Commercial Stair Climbers FAQs

References

1. 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
2. Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135.
3. Zimmermann, C. L., Cook, T. M., Bravard, M. S., Hansen, M. M., Honomichl, R. T., Karns, S. T., Lammers, M. A., Steele, S. A., Yunker, L. K., & Zebrowski, R. M. (1994). Effects of stair-stepping exercise direction and cadence on EMG activity of selected lower extremity muscle groups. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 19(3), 173–180. 
4. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
5. Minasian, K. (2018a, September 7). How to measure your space for a recliner. Living Spaces. https://www.livingspaces.com/inspiration/ideas-advice/shopping-basics/how-to-measure-your-space-for-a-recliner
6. How wide and tall is your door?. North Georgia Replacement Windows. (n.d.). https://www.ngwindows.com/blog/standard-door-sizes 
7. Sandmeier R. H. (2000). Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Does Increased Activity Wear Out Joints?. The Permanente Journal, 4(4), 26–28.
8. Cocreativeinteriors. (2022, March 17). Standard Furniture Size Guide. CoCreative Interiors. https://cocreativeinteriors.com/2022/03/standard-furniture-size-guide/

The post The 8 Best Commercial Stair Climbers of 2024, Tested by Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

The approachable price points of these allows them to double as practice ropes for jump rope newbies or anyone looking to join a CrossFit gym. I’m a novice jump roper myself and tested each of the options to see which ones had me leaping (and which ones had me tripping). See what I, along with the BarBend team, had to say about our time with the best jump ropes for beginners.

The 5 Best Jump Ropes for Beginners of 2024

• Best Jump Rope for Beginners Overall: REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope
• Best Weighted Jump Rope for Beginners: WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope
• Best Budget Jump Rope for Beginners: DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings
• Best Foam Grip Jump Rope for Beginners: Champion Sports Weighted Jump Rope
• Best Jump Rope for Beginners for Kids: Rogue Fitness Licorice Rope

How We Tested and Chose the Best Jump Ropes for Beginners

BarBend’s team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and seasoned hoppers has been incorporating jump ropes into their (and their clients’) training for years. For all 30 jump ropes that we’ve tested, we assigned scores of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 categories, from handle material and rotation system to sizing and adjustment, giving us a solid idea of what to look for in a durable, accessible jump rope. 

As something of a jump rope beginner myself, I wanted to put each of these jump ropes to the test myself. After consulting with a few other testers, I used my personal experience to bring all of our ratings to life. Below are some of the key factors we looked for when choosing the best jump ropes for beginners. For more information about how we test products, check out BarBend’s equipment testing methodology.

• Cable Sizing and Adjustment: While some ropes we tested utilize the “size-and-cut” adjustment method, others come in fixed lengths. We made sure to note whether you can just loosen a screw to adjust the length or if you’ll dig out your wire cutters. Some ropes also allow you to choose your length at checkout.
• Handle Grip: A jump rope’s handle material and size can make or break your workout. Whether you prefer smooth plastic, thick foam, or rigid rubber, you’ll find several options on our list.
• Rotation Mechanism: We included a few options with smooth, ball-bearing rotation systems, but not all beginners may find those mechanisms necessary. The cables on some of our picks are simply attached to the handle, which create the slower spins that can help you practice your footwork and technique.
• Cable Weight: A few ounces can make a huge difference for beginners, so when we tested out these ropes, we noted how their weights affected our workouts. Whether you need the feedback of a heavy rope or are looking for your first speed rope, our top picks encompass a wide weight range. 
• Packability: We think jump ropes are some of the best compact exercise equipment, ideal for athletes on the move. However, some ropes can easily tangle whether they’re packed in a gym bag or tossed on the floor of your car. We sought to include ropes on our list with strong cables to help support tangle-free packing.

Best Jump Rope for Beginners Overall: REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope

REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope

REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope

With lightweight handles, this rope helps provide more control for beginners. The cable can be adjusted in just seconds and does not tangle easily.

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Beginners looking to hone their technique and practice new movements may have found their match in the REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope. Although some beginners may prefer a heavier rope, this cable spins slowly enough to develop your new skills, while still providing a challenging workout. Out of all the jump ropes I’ve tested, I think this is the best option for newcomers with dreams of nailing crossovers and double-unders.  

After measuring your jump rope to suit your height, all it takes to adjust is popping off the secure rubber tips and using the adjustment screws to lock in your length. Or, you can simply snip the cable with a pair of scissors and replace the tip. It took me all of 15 seconds, so rating its sizing and adjustment 5 out of 5 was the easiest decision I made that day. The cable arrives at 9 feet 8 inches, which should fit anyone up to 6 feet 8 inches.

Generally speaking, heavy ropes can help beginners learn the basics by creating slower spins. Their rotation systems also lack the blazing fast ball-bearing systems of the best CrossFit jump ropes. This cable is thinner than other beginner options, but after using it, I think the static rotation system — a 4.5 out of 5 — can help jump rope newbies freestyle while still controlling the rope. 

Because the cable is thinner than other beginner ropes, I doubt it would last long if you consistently use it on concrete or asphalt. I rated its outdoor use just a 2 out of 5. 

Aiding its control are lightweight, no-frills plastic handles. While they lack the contoured or knurled grips of pricier options — like the CrossRope AMP Jump Rope Set — they earned a 5 out of 5 from me. Despite its simple design, I loved that the notch at the base allowed my pinkies and ring fingers to help instill the wrist-flicking motion that can take beginners a minute to learn. 

That said, if you just stepped out of a UFO and have never seen a jump rope, a heavier rope could be a viable option — but not for long. After a few sessions, I think most beginners would be ready for a rope that can help them reach their goals of learning more complicated movements like the double-under.

Best Weighted Jump Rope for Beginners: WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope

The contoured and thick rubber handles provide a secure grip, while each handle also holds 0.5 pounds of removable weight. Its cable length is also adjustable without needing to be cut.

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When you unpack your WOD Nation Atlas Weighted Jump Rope, you’ll find two ropes — a lightweight speed rope and a 4-millimeter weighted rope. Including two ropes and removable weights for both the cable and handles can allow beginners to progress in their training without needing to upgrade later. I tested this rope alongside another BarBend tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, and we both scored its width and weight a 5 out of 5. 

Weighted ropes like this one provide more feedback as you jump. The pull of the rope, along with its contact with the floor — don’t use it outside! — can help beginners acclimate to new movements while cultivating muscle memory. Not only can you swap out the cables and add the small weights as you reach your next level, but the weighted handles can help engage the core that much more.

“The heavier rope spins slower, which is great for anyone new to jumping rope,” our tester said. “But I was impressed how easy it was to add the half-pound weights in the handles.” 

In fact, I timed how long it took me. Unscrewing the cap at the bottom of the handle, removing the spring, loading the weight, and securing everything back in place took me a grand total of 10 seconds.

The contoured rubber grip on the handles felt secure during both freestyle and HIIT cardio workouts, easily earning a 5 out of 5 from both of us for its padding and material. “They were so grippy, they almost felt sticky,” our tester said. “But for people like me, whose hands get sweaty and slippery, I can’t recommend them enough.”

While I appreciated the small carrying bag, I scored its packability 2.5 out of 5, as I needed to untangle it just about every time I picked it up. It also costs around $15 more than some other beginner options, though it’s worth noting that you likely won’t need to purchase another rope as you become more advanced. I’d give it a 4.5 out of 5 value.

Best Budget Jump Rope for Beginners: DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings

DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings

DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings

The ball-bearing rotation system on this budget-friendly jump rope creates smooth spins. Its cable is easily adjustable is also easily adjustable.

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If you can stand one fewer Venti Caramel Iced Chai this week, you can squeeze the DEGOL Skipping Rope into your budget. Even at $8.99, it utilizes a ball-bearing rotation system that creates smooth spins, plus an easily adjustable cable length. Its cable also tucks right into the handle, making jumping rope — one of the best cardiovascular exercises — even easier. That easy, breezy adjustment and seamless rotation earned it a 5 out of 5 value score from me and another of our testers, a certified personal trainer.

“The 9-foot cable was actually perfect for me right out of the box,” said our 6-foot-4 tester. “But being able to stuff the extra cable in the handles means multiple people could adjust it to their height.” 

Because it was so easy to use, I rated this rope’s sizing and adjustment 5 out of 5. Unlike some ropes that require you to measure and cut the cable, this system allows beginners to try out a few lengths without committing to a particular one.

Another pleasant surprise for a rope at this price point is its ball bearing rotation, which I scored a 4 out of 5 for how smoothly it spun the rope. For $8.99, I would have been happy with a rope with a knot, so an actual bearing system was impressive to both myself and our tester. “They aren’t going to be as fast as a $40 or $50 rope, but it’s definitely good for beginners,” they said.

The soft memory foam handles didn’t quite feel like a pillow, but I still found them a bit too soft when I was churning out single- and double-unders. Whether you take on cardio workouts at home or your gym, I think rubber handles can provide a more secure grip, so I scored the handles 2.5 out of 5.

Best Foam Grip Jump Rope for Beginners: Champion Sports Weighted Jump Rope

Champion Sports Weighted Jump Rope

Champion Sports Weighted Jump Rope

The foam grip handles on this weighted jump rope feel super soft and comfortable. With four available weights, you can create full-body workouts.

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Those who enjoy sinking into a memory foam mattress may also enjoy the foam grips on the Champion Sports Weighted Jump Rope. Of the foam handle grips I’ve used, this was easily the softest. I scored the handles’ padding and material both a 4 out of 5.

I do, however, agree with our other tester, a certified personal trainer, that it can begin to feel uncomfortable as it starts to absorb sweat. “I liked that the handles were soft, but they were almost a bit too soft,” they said. “But it didn’t make a huge difference until my hands got super sweaty.” 

When it came to my workouts, the heavy rope had me huffing and puffing sooner than expected, and I rated my overall workout experience 4 out of 5. I used the 1-pound rope, but Champion offers the same foam handles with four different rope weights: 1, 2, 3, and 4 pounds. 

Heavier ropes are typically better suited for beginners because they tend to rotate more slowly. However, that also means your upper body is spinning more weight as you jump. “It took just a few minutes to really get intense,” our tester said. “It sure was challenging and I was not ready for it — in a good way.”

The rope’s sizing and adjustment garnered a 3 out of 5 from yours truly because, while the 9-foot length may be fine for most people, they aren’t adjustable. After working out so many kinks and struggling to neatly wrap up the cable, I doubt I’ll be packing it for any travel workouts when I’m on the road. There’s also no carrying case or even a cinch bag — it just arrived in an empty box — so I scored its packability 2 out of 5.

Best Jump Rope for Beginners for Kids: Rogue Fitness Licorice Rope

Rogue Fitness Licorice Rope

Rogue Fitness Licorice Rope

With four cable lengths available, starting at 7 feet, the thick PVC cord on this jump rope can be gentler on skin after missed jumps. It's also durable enough for outdoor use and packs easily without tangling.

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If your little ones are looking to level up from a beaded option to a high-quality rope, I like the Rogue Fitness Licorice Rope because it’s easy to spin and difficult to get tangled. Of the four available cable lengths, the 7-foot option may be ideal for mini jump ropers around 4-feet tall. Below is a chart outlining Rogue’s sizing recommendations. 

Rogue Fitness Jump Rope Sizing Chart

Speed and wire ropes are notorious for welt-inducing jump rope workouts, so you’d be right to be hesitant about bringing a “grown-up” rope home for your kid. Fortunately, the flexible PVC rope on this inexpensive profile can be gentle on their skin if they happen to miss a jump. I rated the cable’s weight a 4 out of 5 because the slower rotation might also help avoid some of the welts and marks for which thinner ropes are notorious.

The 5-millimeter thickness also makes it a tad more durable for when your kiddos burn off their sugar rushes outdoors. After testing it out on a concrete sidewalk (and wishing I was a kid again), I rated the Licorice Rope 4 out of 5 for outdoor use. 

Its plain plastic handles won’t inspire awe, but that simplicity may turn out to be a good thing — kids break things after all. On other options, contoured or knurled jump rope handles help justify their higher prices, so for just $8.50, you can feel better about it being tossed on a hard surface. Nevertheless, I still scored them a 3 out of 5. 

Benefits of Jump Ropes for Beginners

Because they don’t occupy much space in your home or budget, jump ropes are some of the best budget home gym equipment available. Along with their accessibility, BarBend expert reviewer Kate Meier notes that even a quick jump rope session can make for a heart-pounding, high-intensity workout. 

“Jump roping is a fantastic, full-body exercise for those looking to elevate their heart rate and work up a sweat in a short amount of time,” she says. “Even just 10 minutes of jump-roping can burn around 100 calories, depending on your intensity.” (1)

• Improved Cardiovascular Endurance: Consistently raising your heart rate through exercise can not only boost your overall cardiovascular health, but it can improve circulation and endurance. (1) In fact, participants in one Harvard study burned as many calories in a 10-minute jump rope workout as they did running for 30 minutes. (1)
• Enhanced Coordination: When building workout plans for her clients (and herself), Meier incorporates jumping rope to help improve overall balance. “In general, I love prescribing any kind of jumps to my clients as they progress working through balance and coordination exercises,” she says. “Jumping rope is an excellent way to get the mind and body in sync. You have to concentrate on timing your jump as well as getting your upper body to coordinate with your lower body.” (2)
• Accessibility and Portability: Whether it’s a walk to the gym or a cross-country flight, these jump ropes coil up to slide into a gym bag or carry-on bag. They also weigh just a few pounds. Plus, some come with their own carrying cases or cinch bags.
• Value: These convenient pieces of home gym equipment will only set you back between $8.50 and $33.77. With all the training benefits they bring to the table, jump ropes can be a solid addition for athletes on a budget.

How Much Do Jump Ropes for Beginners Cost?

Foam grip or rubber grip? Weighted rope or speed rope? When it comes to the best jump ropes for beginners, the devil is the details. With a range from $8.50 to $33.77, it might be helpful to check out this quick breakdown of perhaps the most important detail: their cost.

How To Measure a Jump Rope

After unwrapping your new jump rope, the first step is to measure it for your height. But how are you supposed to know how to measure a jump rope? Whether your rope has an adjustable screw or you need to “size-and-cut,” our expert reviewer Kate Meier explains how to find the right length for your height.

“Finding the right rope length is simple. Step on the rope with one foot and pull the handles up toward your shoulders. The base of both handles should hit you at your armpits,” she says. “If the handles are lower than that, you need a longer rope. If they are above your shoulders, you should shorten your rope a little.”

Jump Rope Sizing Chart

A good rule of thumb for sizing your jump cable is to add around 3 feet to your height. Most brands include a sizing chart along with your delivery or on their website. To get a sense of how to match your new jump to your height, check out our sizing chart below.

What to Consider Before Buying a Jump Rope for Beginners

While incorporating a jump rope into your training regimen can be a boon for your cardio, there are a few factors to keep in mind as you peruse our list. 

Experience Level

As one of our testers, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, points out, learning new jump rope movements with an option that is too fast or too thin can lead to some painful skin-to-cable encounters. “Speed ropes are essentially just bare steel cables,” they said. “They can easily leave welts and whip marks if you miss a jump.” 

If this will be the first time you’ve jumped rope since your double-dutch days, remember that heavier ropes spin slower. Along with the feedback they provide, this can give beginners an opportunity to master their footwork and fundamentals pain-free. Some brands, like WOD Nation, even feature jump rope tutorials and simple workouts to help guide you toward your fitness goals.

Intended Workouts

When you’re scrolling through our list, consider how each option might perform during the workouts you want to do. Oftentimes, jump rope workouts for beginners are easiest with a heavier rope that will rotate slower and provide more feedback than the thin cables of speed jump ropes. If you want to practice faster movements, like crossovers or double-unders, lighter cables can offer the speed to ramp up your training.

Cable Length

Making sure your cable length matches your height may be the most important detail to consider before bringing your new rope home. “Before you start jumping, getting the right size rope length is imperative,” Meier says.

“Too short of a rope means you’ll be whipping yourself in the legs entirely too often,” she says. “Too long of a rope means the rope will hit the ground way out in front of you, affecting your timing and likely causing you to miss your jump.”

Training Surface 

If it’s been a few years (OK, decades) since you last jumped rope, you’d be forgiven for thinking they’re designed to hold up on any surface. In reality, some cables can quickly fray if they repeatedly come into contact with abrasive surfaces, like asphalt or concrete. 

Even jump ropes for beginners are usually best suited for indoor training. If you decide to go with one of these ropes, consider laying down some of the best home gym flooring to keep your cable in top shape.

Jump Ropes for Beginners FAQs

References

1. Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, March 8). Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights
2. Ozer, D., Duzgun, I., Baltaci, G., Karacan, S., & Colakoglu, F. (2011). The effects of rope or weighted rope jump training on strength, coordination and proprioception in adolescent female volleyball players. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 51(2), 211–219.

The post The 5 Best Jump Ropes for Beginners of 2024, Personally Tested By Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

If you’re looking to buy a home elliptical that doesn’t break the bank, the good news is that there are plenty of budget-friendly options out there. Our team of expert testers hopped on more than 20 models, and singled out these six machines as the best budget ellipticals, so you can shop without worrying about your bank account breaking a sweat.  

The Best Budget Ellipticals of 2024

• Best Budget Elliptical Overall: Horizon EX-59
• Best Budget Elliptical with iFIT: ProForm Carbon EL
• Best Budget Elliptical for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
• Best Budget Elliptical with Incline: Schwinn 430 Elliptical
• Best Budget Under-Desk Elliptical: DeskCycle2
• Best Budget Elliptical Under $500: Gazelle Sprinter

How We Tested and Chose the Best Budget Ellipticals

Our expert team of testers (including certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and gym owners) have personally put more than 20 ellipticals to the test. Using BarBend’s equipment testing methodology, they rated each piece of equipment on a scale of 1 (disappointing) to 5 (stellar) on 13 different categories, including ergonomics, tech capabilities, and workout experience. Here are a few of the key factors we kept in mind while selecting these six best budget ellipticals:

• Price: It goes without saying, but in rounding up the best budget ellipticals, our first priority was the price. These machines range from $200 to $999, max. 
• Durability: Budget doesn’t mean breakable. When testing these machines and combing through reviews, we carefully judged their durability — looking at flywheel weight (16lbs is ideal), frame construction, weight capacity (300lbs is the norm), and drive type — so you can feel safe working out on these ellipticals for hours and years.
• Footprint: Ellipticals are some of the clunkiest pieces of cardio equipment, but limiting the budget does help limit the size. We carefully examined the footprint of each pick to make sure they won’t take up too much space but will also comfortably fit most athletes.
• Features: With budget machines, you won’t get luxe features like an HD touchscreen display, but you should get standard ones, like adjustable resistance, basic workout stats, a water bottle holder, device shelf, and perhaps even Bluetooth connectivity.

Best Budget Elliptical Overall: Horizon EX-59

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical can be a great starter machine thanks to its approachable price tag, intuitive controls, and dual-handlebar design. Its 18-inch stride length and 300-pound weight capacity can also make it accessible for many athletes.

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This elliptical has all the essential features you need while still sitting at an affordable price point. It’s a well-rounded machine that our tester, a certified personal trainer, says is a great budget option. “Though there’s nothing special about it, it’s a solid beginner elliptical and good for anyone wanting to build out their home gym,” they said, giving the overall workout experience a 3 out of 5 and value a 4 out of 5. “At just about $700, it’s a really good price for what you’re getting.”

The machine has a 14.3lb flywheel — lighter than the industry-standard 16lbs — but our tester notes it feels sturdy nonetheless. “Unless you’re really jostling it side to side, this machine feels stable and stays in place,” they said. The 10 levels of magnetic resistance are also more limited than competitor machines on this list, but should be plenty challenging enough (and maybe even too challenging); many reviewers, including experienced exercisers, note that they aren’t able to progress past level three. The stride length measures 18 inches, which is in the golden range for ellipticals, and excellent for a budget pick.

It has plenty of other little conveniences that make for a comfy workout experience, including cushioned handles, multiple water bottle holders, storage areas for headphones or other small items, a USB port, a headphone output, and even Bluetooth connectivity. “The Bluetooth works great and when you’re not using it, the sound coming out of the speakers is quite clear,” our expert tester said.

The machine can’t connect to other fitness apps like iFIT, but there’s a device shelf so you can stream workouts or watch TV. Also notable are the double handles; there’s a set of moving handlebars that give you an upper-body workout, as well as a fixed pair, so you can occasionally give your arms a rest.

To boot, our expert tester was impressed with the customer service (easily accessible via online chat) and warranty (lifetime for the fame, and one year for parts, brake, and labor), both of which they rated 4.5 out of 5.

Read our full Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review.

Best Budget Elliptical with iFIT: ProForm Carbon EL

ProForm Carbon EL

ProForm Carbon EL

Once you purchase this elliptical, you’ll have everything you need for an awesome workout. You just need to bring two things — yourself and your tablet or smartphone. The ProForm Carbon EL keeps the price down by not having a large screen but still includes premium features like power adjusting resistance, incline, and stride length.

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If all you want is to do iFIT workouts, you’ve probably checked out pricier machines like the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical or NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i — but before you hit “buy,” consider this budget elliptical option. Not only will you save money on the machine (going for $1,000 and $500 cheaper than the aforementioned models), but because the machine doesn’t have an integrated screen to display the iFIT content, you’ll be paying $15 per month for a subscription instead of $39 per month — saving you way more money in the long run.

The iFIT capability is why our expert tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, gave the machine 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming: “iFIT is excellent if you want challenging, diverse, and interactive workout programming,” they said.

Though you won’t be able to stream iFIT on the ProForm Carbon EL screen, you’ll still get one of the platform’s coolest connected-equipment features: SmartAdjust. The elliptical will automatically change the magnetic resistance to match the instructor’s cueing or the virtual terrain you’re striding through. (As for resistance, by the way, there are 18 levels — above the industry standard of 12.) 

It’s like buying one of ProForm’s fancier models, just saving money by bringing your own screen. Considering you probably already own plenty of those, it’s a great way to save money while still getting to stream iFIT workouts via your phone, tablet, or TV. The machine’s display is pretty basic, with Bluetooth compatibility and dual speakers, though it shows only basic stats like the time and distance.

As for the hardware? “It’s a sturdy machine. I didn’t notice any shifting while working out,” our tester said, giving the Carbon EL a 4 out of 5 for durability. It gets extra points for having an adjustable stride length and ramp, too. There are two different sets of handlebars — one fixed and one moving — plus, a water bottle holder and device shelf.   

“For the $800 price, I’m impressed; however, if you want a touchscreen or all the extras, you won’t find those on this (or any budget) machine,” our tester said.

Best Budget Elliptical for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical

This basic machine is great for beginners. It comes at a reasonable cost for those who are just starting out, and nixes the technological frills for a simple and reliable machine. 

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The ​​Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical isn’t fancy, but it gets the job done — and pretty well — making it a great option for beginner exercisers who want to try using an elliptical at home without spending anywhere near $1,000. “Honestly, I liked this a lot more than I expected,” said our expert tester and certified personal trainer, who gave it a 4 out of 5 for workout experience. “Overall, I’d say it excels in the basics… just don’t expect fancy extras.“

Those basics include 16 levels of electronic magnetic resistance, two sets of handlebars (one moving, one fixed), a media shelf, a water bottle holder, and a digital monitor that displays basic stats like calories, distance, time, and speed. 

Areas where it surpasses other budget ellipticals include the offering of 24 programmed workouts, heart rate sensors in the handles, and a 330lb weight capacity. “The industry standard is 300 pounds. Budget-friendly ellipticals are likely to have a lower weight capacity, while luxury options may have a weight capacity of 350 to 400 pounds,” says Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. This makes it one of the best ellipticals for heavy people on a budget.

On the flip side, this elliptical falls short of ideal for its lightweight 13.2lb flywheel (16+ is best) and 15.5” stride length (18-20” is recommended). The latter can make the machine somewhat uncomfortable for taller users, which is why our tester scored it 3.5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics. 

Our tester found it to be quite durable — “I could stride forward, backward, and pick up the pace without too much movement from the machine. There were no weird noises or shaking,” our tester said —  though some reviewers on the Sunny Health & Fitness site report having issues with the assembly squeaking, or parts arriving broken. The machine comes with a 3-year structural frame warranty but only 180 days for parts and components, which is sub-standard, even for a budget machine, earning it a 2.5 out of 5 for that element.

Best Budget Elliptical with Incline: Schwinn 430 Elliptical

Schwinn 430 Elliptical

Schwinn 430 Elliptical

This affordable elliptical features 26 resistance levels and six levels of incline. A whopping 22 preset workout programs can add some structure to your training. The 20-inch stride length is on par with more expensive machines.

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Incline may be common on commercial ellipticals or more expensive options, but it’s hard to find in a budget model. Somehow, this affordable Schwinn elliptical offers 10 degrees of manual incline plus a comprehensive 20 levels of magnetic resistance. “You have to change the incline manually, so you can’t adjust it while working out, but it’s rare for ellipticals at this price point to have any incline at all,” said our tester. It’s at the top of the price category, ringing up at just about $1,000, but if you want one of the best ellipticals with incline, it’s your best budget-friendly option.

The 430 is Schwinn’s mid-tier elliptical, and it does a good job at offering some high-end features while remaining at an accessible price point. It has an excellent 20” stride length, above-standard 20lb flywheel, significantly more resistance levels than the industry standard of 12, a three-speed fan, and an LCD display that’s more interactive than any of the others on this list.

That’s why our testers scored it a 4 out of 5 for value and features. The device shelf allows you to stream workout content on your own device without blocking the machine’s two displays, on which you can set up two user profiles, complete 22 programmed workouts, see your heart rate, and track stats like time, distance, and calories.

It’s a bit larger and heavier than other budget ellipticals, coming in at almost 6’ long, 5’3” tall, and nearly 170lbs — which is why it scored a 3 out of 5 for footprint and portability with our tester: “Taller athletes will need to be careful when working out on this machine in rooms with lower ceilings, and you could also have trouble moving it depending on your ceiling clearance,” they said.

The cushioned foot pedals and dual handlebars (both moving and fixed) make for a comfortable workout, as does the Precision Path Foot Motion technology, which Schwinn says is designed to simulate running. Overall, it’s a pricier option than others on this list, but you get a lot more with those extra dollars.

Best Budget Under-Desk Elliptical: DeskCycle2

DeskCycle Under Desk Bike

DeskCycle Under Desk Bike

The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike was designed to help you stay active while firing off emails at work. The low-profile pedals are adjustable and compatible with desks as low as 27 inches. Its magnetic resistance, meanwhile, works to provide a whisper-quiet pedal that won't distract coworkers.

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The best under-desk ellipticals are genius solutions for anyone who wants to move more without changing their routine. You can pedal while working or watching Netflix, and you’ll reap some of the benefits of exercise without having to schlep to the gym or dedicate time to exercising.

Research shows that using a desk elliptical can help increase energy expenditure by about 90 calories per hour compared to being sedentary and doesn’t seem to negatively affect work performance. (1)(2) Because under-desk ellipticals are also much smaller than the kind you stand on, they’re better for small spaces, like apartments, and more affordable, too.

“For people on a budget, under-desk [machines] provide a lower-cost option that still allows for great exercise,” says Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. “The ideal buyer is someone who wants to increase their daily exercise but doesn’t have a lot of time to commit to working out.”

Our expert tester and personal trainer gave this particular model a 4 out of 5 overall. “I was surprised by how much resistance it offered considering the small size. I pedaled on level 4 for 15 minutes and got a decent zone-two workout,” they said. The dual-band resistance system, with eight levels, is quiet while being enough to challenge most users. “The bike is silent. You could use it in a cubicle and no one would know,” our tester said, giving it a 5 out of 5 for noise.

The adjustability and ergonomics, however, are lacking; they earned a 3 out of 5. “You have to use this while sitting on a chair. For me, the pedaling angle was slightly uncomfortable,” our tester said, “though it may be better with a taller chair.” To change the resistance, you have to reach down to the machine, meaning you’ll likely need to pause your workout and remove a foot from a pedal to do so. The small LCD screen shows basic stats like distance and RPM, but there’s no connectivity or way to track your workouts over time.

Best Budget Elliptical Under $500: Gazelle Sprinter

Gazelle Sprinter

Gazelle Sprinter

This glider offers users up to 300 pounds access to glider training with 10 levels of adjustable hydraulic resistance. When the work is done, this unit can fold up almost totally flat, allowing for easier storage.

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Glider-style ellipticals come at even lower prices than other budget ellipticals — this one is $400 less than our overall best pick at just $300 — but they put you through a different movement pattern. Instead of mimicking a walking or running motion, you’re kicking your extended legs forward, backward, or even sideways.

This alternative movement pattern may be a plus for some people and a downside for others. Some reviewers say it doesn’t feel natural, doesn’t provide a real workout, or is “not as satisfying a motion.” However, another reviewer says, “The movement comes from the hips, not the knees, so it’s great for people [whose] knees might hurt from biking or other repetitive knee bending.” 

Besides the low price point, another big perk of this machine is the fact that it’s foldable. You can collapse the machine down to just 8” tall, so you can slide it under other furniture or store it upright inside a closet when not in use. However, the downside of even the best folding ellipticals is that they aren’t as stable as their non-folding counterparts. Reviewers are split over whether or not the Gazelle feels stable and sturdy. One reviewer says it’s “not stable enough to get to an intensity level that would be beneficial,” while another says “it is well made [and] stable (does not tip or rock).”

The resistance offered by the machine is hydraulic and must be adjusted when the machine isn’t in use — so you have to pause your workout and hop off to turn it up or down. Some customers found the 10 levels to be plenty challenging, while more experienced exercisers say it isn’t difficult enough. Overall, this elliptical may be better suited to people looking for a gentle, low-impact workout that’s easy on the knees, and also very affordable to get started with. People looking for a more intense workout should direct their attention to the other machines on this list — even if it means spending a little more money. 

Benefits of the Best Budget Ellipticals

“People interested in an elliptical for home use will be pleased to find that ellipticals come in a wide range of sizes and styles, with many different options to suit different needs and budgets,” says Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. 

Budget ellipticals offer many of the same workout benefits as more expensive models but with the added bonus of having less impact on your wallet and also, most likely, your home gym space. Specific perks include:

• Low-Impact Cardio Exercise: “For those who need low-impact exercise options, ellipticals sit near the top of the list,” Capritto says. “These cardio machines provide a full-body workout without putting undue stress on the joints.” 
• Full-Body Workout: Because ellipticals have moving handles, they get your upper body involved in your cardio workout, turning it into a full-body affair. This is a distinct advantage ellipticals have over treadmills and cycling workouts, research shows. (3)
• Ideal for Tight Spaces: Budget ellipticals are generally smaller than commercial models, and overall smaller than most of the best treadmills for home. As a result, they can be a better option for those looking to limit the amount of space given up to cardio equipment in their home or home gym.

How Much Do The Best Budget Ellipticals Cost?

Within the umbrella of budget ellipticals, there are some distinct price categories: Under $200 will get you an elliptical-cycle hybrid to use while seated; $300 will get you a glider-style elliptical; and $500 will get you a true elliptical machine that allows for sweatier workouts. From there, the basics are covered, but the more you pay, the more features you get.

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Budget Ellipticals

Unfortunately, returning an elliptical isn’t as easy as sending back a book you bought with Amazon Prime — so you’ll want to carefully consider which machine is best for you before hitting “buy.” The following factors are especially important to mull over when shopping for a budget elliptical.

Price

“You’ll pay a lot of money to get top-tier features on an elliptical, just like you will for any other big piece of cardio equipment,” says Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer. “While there are plenty of budget-friendly ellipticals available, they won’t check all of the boxes for a lot of people.” 

If you’re looking to really challenge yourself, stream workouts directly on a device, or use motorized incline, it may be better to spring for a more advanced model instead of buying a budget elliptical that doesn’t do what you want.

Frequency of Use 

Consumer-grade ellipticals don’t get anywhere near as much use as the best commercial ellipticals, but they can still wear down over time — especially if they’re not properly cared for. How often will you use this elliptical, and how long do you hope it will last? Depending on your answer, you may come to realize you should invest in a pricier product versus trying to shop for one of the cheapest on the market.

Your Training Preferences 

Be honest. How hard are you looking to exercise on this machine? If this is your only source of cardio and you want to be able to push your limits, you’ll need to invest in an elliptical that has adequate resistance, stability, and perhaps incline adjustments. 

Under-desk ellipticals, glider-style ellipticals, or cheaper budget ellipticals will be a better choice for those looking to work out at a chiller pace.

Available Space

Budget ellipticals tend to be smaller than commercial models, but they still run about six feet long, two feet wide, and another six feet tall. That’s some serious space and significantly more than you’d need for, say, a stationary bike. Be sure you have enough vertical space not only for the elliptical but also for you to stand on top of it; unlike other workout machines, you’ll likely need to check your ceiling height before buying one of these. 

Best Budget Ellipticals FAQs

References

1. Rovniak, L. S., Denlinger, L., Duveneck, E., Sciamanna, C. N., Kong, L., Freivalds, A., & Ray, C. A. (2014). Feasibility of using a compact elliptical device to increase energy expenditure during sedentary activities. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 17(4), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2013.07.014
2. Rovniak, L. S., Cho, J., Freivalds, A., Kong, L., DE Araujo-Greecher, M., Bopp, M., Sciamanna, C. N., & Rothrock, L. (2023). Effects of Desk Pedaling Work Rate on Concurrent Work Performance among Physically Inactive Adults: A Randomized Experiment. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 55(1), 20–31. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0000000000003026
3. Sözen, H. (2010). Comparison of muscle activation during elliptical trainer, treadmill and bike exercise. Biology of Sport, 27(3). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/47369056_Comparison_of_muscle_activation_during_elliptical_trainer_treadmill_and_bike_exercise 
4. Brown, G. A., Cook, C. M., Krueger, R. D., & Heelan, K. A. (2010). Comparison of energy expenditure on a treadmill vs. an elliptical device at a self-selected exercise intensity. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 24(6), 1643–1649. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181cb2854 

The post Best Budget Ellipticals, Chosen By Our Team and Expert Reviewed appeared first on BarBend.

Our team has spent a lot of time clicking, spinning, pushing, and pulling more than 15 different adjustable kettlebells to see which mechanisms were the smoothest and which profiles felt most like the real thing. If you love a good Turkish get-up, but want to expand your weight range, read on to see what our team of certified fitness pros had to say about the best adjustable kettlebells.

The 9 Best Adjustable Kettlebells of 2024

• Best Adjustable Kettlebell Overall: REP Fitness 24kg Adjustable Kettlebell
• Best Competition-Style Adjustable Kettlebell: Bells Of Steel Adjustable Competition-Style Kettlebell
• Best Heavy Adjustable Kettlebell: Titan Fitness Plate Loadable Kettlebell Swing
• Best Adjustable Kettlebell for Beginners: REP Fitness 16kg Adjustable Kettlebell
• Most Versatile Adjustable Kettlebell: Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell Handle
• Best Compact Adjustable Kettlebell: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
• Best Quick-Change Adjustable Kettlebell: Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell
• Best Budget Adjustable Kettlebell: Kettle Gryp
• Best Adjustable Kettlebell on Amazon: Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set

How We Tested and Chose the Best Adjustable Kettlebells

With decades of experience lifting heavy objects, BarBend’s roster of Olympic weightlifters, certified strength coaches, and personal trainers knows their way around strength equipment. We scored each of the 15 adjustable kettlebells that we tested on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across categories like grip, coating, adjustment mechanism, and more. Below, see what our team of fitness pros looked for when testing adjustable kettlebells. 

For more information on how we test products, check out the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Weight Range: Most of the adjustable kettlebells on our list span weights from 8 kilograms (17.5 pounds) to 16 kilograms (35 pounds). According to our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, ranges this wide can consolidate a lot of individual bells. “Adjustable kettlebells can replace anywhere from 5 to 20+ individual kettlebells, depending on the weight range and adjustment mechanism,” she says. 
• Adjustment Mechanism: We included a variety of adjustment mechanisms to match different gyms and training needs. “Some adjustments are more difficult than others (there are plate-lock kettlebells, dials, internal plates, and dual options),” Capritto says. “It’s important that the adjustment mechanism is both simple to use and durable.”
• Durability: We prioritized cast-iron kettlebells, though we also chose a few sturdy steel and urethane options we enjoyed in testing. Adjustable kettlebells often feature plastic components in their adjustment mechanisms, but we made an effort to highlight picks using minimal amounts, as the material tends not to fare well in gym settings. 
• Handle: We looked for options with handle diameters around 30 to 35 millimeters. We also included adjustable kettlebells with powder-coated handles. In our experience, this size range and handle texture can offer a secure and comfortable grip for the most athletes.  
• Value: Adjustable kettlebells combine the functionality of several individual bells into one. Our team looked for options that can help you get the most bang for your buck by reducing the cost of an entire set of kettlebells.

Best Adjustable Kettlebell Overall: REP Fitness 24kg Adjustable Kettlebell

REP Fitness 24kg Adjustable Kettlebell

REP Fitness 24kg Adjustable Kettlebell

This adjustable kettlebell uses a quick and simple weight adjustment that spans 16 to 24 kilograms. While the bell is made from cast iron, it has a rubber bottom that can help protect floors.

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There’s a lot to love about the REP Fitness 24kg Adjustable Kettlebell, but it stands out for a simple reason: it feels like a traditional kettlebell. Between the interchangeable weights and mechanisms of an adjustable kettlebell, it’s hard to replicate the feel of a good old-fashioned hunk of metal. Not so with this model. “I think if you closed your eyes during kettlebell workouts, you wouldn’t be able to tell that it’s an adjustable model,” said our tester.  

Along with its seamless weight adjustment mechanism — a 5 out of 5 from our team — that classic feel helped it earn a 4.5 out of 5 for workout experience. “Actually adjusting the weight was surprisingly easy,” they said. 

All it takes is stacking the 2-kilogram plates, then placing the cast iron shell over your stack and locking in the dial mechanism. “It’s super nice because all you’re really doing is turning the dial, then it secures them by itself,” they said. 

The cast iron shell prompted a 4 out of 5 score for durability. We also like the rubber base, as it can protect your floors (and, of course, the bell itself). “The only plastic in the build is the adjustment dial, so while I don’t like seeing plastic anywhere, on these bells sometimes it’s necessary,” they explained.

When it came to grip, our tester was equally impressed. “It’s not listed, so I had to measure, but the handle diameter is the standard 35 millimeters,” they said, rating its overall grip 4.5 out of 5. “Plus, the powder coat on the handle made it feel really secure, even for two-handed swings.”

There are a few sizes available, but we think the 16 to 24 kilogram option is ideal for the average athlete. What’s less ideal is the price. Most adjustable kettlebells come in around $150 to $160, so the $209.99 price tag on this profile is a bit steep. That said, REP does offer free shipping, and our tester thinks it’s worth the cash. “After trying out a ton of adjustable kettlebells, I think its quality still makes it the best value.”

Read our full REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Review. 

Best Competition-Style Adjustable Kettlebell: Bells Of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell

Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell

Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell

This versatile adjustable kettlebell from Bells of Steel can replace up to 18 kettlebells in one silhouette, keeping your setup compact for less than $200. While swapping out weights takes a few tools and some patience, if you're looking for an efficient method to add kettlebell training to your repertoire, look no further.

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The size of a traditional kettlebell typically tracks with its weight — the heavier it is, the bigger the bell. But, as our tester explained, competition-style kettlebells have uniform dimensions. “These always have a 35-millimeter handle diameter, 5.5-inch base diameter, and 11.1-inch height,” they said. “The grip on this Bells of Steel bell is standard (because it’s a competition kettlebell), but it felt really secure and was even better with chalk.”

They continued, “I put this thing through the ringer — Turkish get-ups, goblet squats, briefcase carries, overhead presses, and of course, kettlebell swings.” They scored their workout experience 5 out of 5. 

Along with its grip, our tester cited the durability of the steel shell as a reason for that high mark. “The shell is also protected by a rubber coating, which helps protect the bell and your floors.”

Our team landed on a 4 out of 5 for its weight range. “A minimum weight of 26.5 pounds is kind of high for most people, but remember this is a competition-style bell geared toward experienced athletes,” they said. 

We also thought the 1.1-pound plates themselves were a highlight of the design. “Lighter increments make it easier to progressive overload because they are more precise than traditional kettlebells that usually use five-pound increments,” our tester explained.

That precision, however, means that adjusting the weights can be tedious. After you use an Allen wrench to open the bottom of the bell, you’ll find a long thread that uses a separate nut to secure the plates. 

“I’ll go ahead and disqualify this bell from any HIIT workouts because changing the weights is a whole process,” our tester noted, rating its adjustment mechanism 2 out of 5. “I get it needs to keep its competition size, but changing the weights was a ton of work. I honestly just planned my workouts around it.”

Best Heavy Adjustable Kettlebell: Titan Fitness Plate Loadable Kettlebell

Titan Fitness Plate Loadable Kettlebell Swing

Titan Fitness Plate Loadable Kettlebell Swing

With a unique design, this adjustable kettlebell can can hold up to 500 pounds of weight plates. This budget-friendly option is also compatible with most Olympic weight plates.

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The small weight plates and mechanisms used by most adjustable kettlebells help them mostly look and feel like kettlebells, but the Titan Fitness Plate Loadable Kettlebell is different. “It’s essentially a loadable steel rod with a kettlebell handle,” our tester explained. “You can also load it up to 500 pounds — heavy, heavy, heavy.”

When you add your plates, they sit at the bottom of the 19-inch rod, which places the weight away from your hands. “I like it because weight plates fit on it, but it doesn’t exactly feel like a kettlebell,” our tester said. One area that did remind them of a kettlebell was the handle — a 5 out of 5. “The 33-millimeter handle is actually close to the real deal.”

Since you’ll be loading up standard plates, adjusting the weight will take longer than the adjustment dials on other options. “It’d be nice for super heavy kettlebell squats, but if you need a quick change, this isn’t the way to go,” they said, rating its adjustment mechanism a 3 out of 5.

However, another member of our team ran into a few issues during their workout — specifically with squats. “The plates are really just held in place with the pin, so there’s going to be at least a tiny bit of space between the pin and plates,” they explained, rating their workout experience a 2 out of 5. 

“Swings made me a little nervous because I could feel (and hear) a little shifting around,” they continued. “Plus, when I tried squats, my 45-pound plates bumped up against the inside of my legs. Realistically, I think the width of a 25-pound plate is the widest you can use for squats.”

All in all, our tester thinks this is a viable and durable option for anyone with a collection of the best weight plates. “The flat base helps it stand upright when you’re changing out weights, plus the powder coat can help stave off some corrosion,” they said. “So along with the budget-friendly price point, I think there are plenty of positives.”

Best Adjustable Kettlebell for Beginners: REP Fitness 16kg Adjustable Kettlebell

REP Fitness 16kg Adjustable Kettlebell

REP Fitness 16kg Adjustable Kettlebell

This adjustable kettlebell uses a quick and simple weight adjustment that spans 8 to 16 kilograms. While the bell is made from cast iron, it has a rubber bottom that can help protect floors.

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For kettlebell newbies, the REP Fitness 16kg Adjustable Kettlebell closely resembles the feel of traditional bells, while offering a range of weights that can replace five individual bells. “I think it can help anyone new to this type of training really get a sense of what it feels like to swing and lift a true kettlebell,” said one of our two testers. 

A big part of that authentic feel is its coating, which prompted a 4.5 out of 5  — and something of a spiritual bond. “It feels like a genuine extension of my hand — like my body and the handle had a real connection,” said our other tester, a certified personal trainer. 

When you’re starting out with kettlebells, it can take a little time to improve grip strength enough to confidently perform classic movements, such as swings, carries, or presses. “Increasing your grip strength is one of the biggest benefits of using a kettlebell, but at first you need a little boost,” one tester explained, scoring its grip 5 out of 5. “I think the powder coat provides just that.”

We also think the 8- to 16-kilogram range — about 17.5 to 35 pounds — is appropriate for beginners. “There are four plates, so you’re basically getting 8-, 10-, 12-, 14-, and 16-kilogram bells in one profile,” our tester said, rating the weight range a 4 out of 5. Adjustable kettlebells tend to land in the $150 to $160 range. Even though this option is at that lower limit, a 35-pound max is not all that impressive compared to other options with wider ranges.

When you actually go to adjust those cast iron plates, all you have to do is stack the weights, place the bell over the top of them and turn to the dial to lock in the weight you want. “The adjustment mechanism is so easy to use,” our tester said. “An easy 5 out of 5.”

Most Versatile Adjustable Kettlebell: Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell Handle

Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell

Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell

Its wide weight range supports up to 80 pounds, while being compatible with Ironmaster’s adjustable dumbbell plates. The powder coat also enhances your grip.

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Let’s be clear — for $99.99, you’re not getting an adjustable kettlebell, but rather an adjustable kettlebell handle. Ironmaster’s weight plates are sold separately, with the 57.5-pound stack for $139.99. You can also add an additional 22.5-pound plate to that stack for $100, combining for an 80-pound kettlebell. What makes this profile so versatile, though, is that Ironmaster’s weight plates are also compatible with their adjustable dumbbells. In short, you buy two handles and one set of weights and you can create a full kettlebell and dumbbell set.

“If you have the Ironmaster dumbbell handle, this is a no-brainer,” our tester said. “And if you don’t, we think it’s one of the best adjustable dumbbells, too.”

Ironmaster offers several weight packages, but the 57.5-pound weight kit comes in at $139.99. That would make for an 80-pound kettlebell, which our tester deemed worthy of a 5 out of 5 for weight range. “Eighty pounds is pretty heavy,” they said. “Even though the 22-pound handle weight may be a little much for beginners, Ironmaster’s target audience skews more toward heavy lifters.” 

If you’re interested, the adjustable dumbbell handles cost $299.99 for the pair and weigh 10 pounds with no weights attached. Accounting for the weight of the bolts and screws, this weight package would also be enough for a pair of 40-pound dumbbells.

The starter weight set includes six 5-pound weight plates, but no matter how many you lock in with the screw, our tester says you can count on a secure grip. “The powder coating gives the handle a balanced, textured grip,” they noted. The long locking screw can easily be adjusted by hand with the knurled, circular base, allowing this weight adjustment system to avoid using any plastic.

Best Compact Adjustable Kettlebell: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell

PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell

PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell

Its compact, space-saving design and flat angle helps make presses or clean and jerks more comfortable. Also, its weight labels are color-coded for easy placement.

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By combining multiple heavy objects into one, adjustable kettlebells are inherently some of the best compact exercise equipment, but what sets the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell apart is its sleek design. “The shape is closer to a cowbell than a true kettlebell,” our tester said, rating its size a 5 out of 5. “It’s narrower and shorter than other adjustable kettlebells, so it could slide into tighter spaces.”  

Its shape also made several classic movements more comfortable during our tester’s kettlebell workouts. “Sometimes, spherical kettlebells pinpoint their weight onto your arm or shoulder during presses or clean and jerks,” they said, scoring its feel a 4 out of 5. “But the flatter angle on the PowerBlock rests much more comfortably during those kettlebell exercises.”

While its design may be good for storage and specific movements, our tester thought its grip and handle were just average — 3.5 out of 5. “It feels alright on the wrist, but just doesn’t feel like a traditional kettlebell,” they said. “It is powder-coated, though, so that helps a little.”

We’ve tested both the 35-pound and 62-pound varieties, and each features four weight increments that use a magnetic pin for adjustment, earning the mechanism a 4 out of 5. The pin itself is pretty small, so make sure you keep track of it during weight changes. 

Our tester also noted one small annoyance with the plates themselves. “This is full nit-pick mode and has nothing to do with its functionality, but the sticker labels peeled off pretty easily — so annoying.”

With a starting price of $169.99, it’s not in danger of being called the best budget home gym equipment, but we think it’s a high-quality option for athletes in need of an extra-slim design. “They’re kind of pricey, but both options were great for every movement I did,” our tester said. “I think it’s the best option for people tight on space.”

Best Quick-Change Adjustable Kettlebell: Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell

Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell

Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell

This adjustable kettlebell system replaces six individual kettlebells and features an easy-to-use dial to adjust the weight so you can get straight to your workouts.

Shop Bowflex

After clicking dials, unscrewing threads, and sliding in plates on 15 different adjustable kettlebells, our tester declared the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell the fastest. “Without a doubt, this was the quickest adjustment of all,” they said, rating its adjustment mechanism (shocker) a 5 out of 5. “Just turn the dial. It’s that easy. You can get from 8 to 40 pounds in the blink of an eye.”

The SelectTech 840 can replace six individual kettlebells, and our tester was pleasantly surprised by how it felt when they took on the best kettlebell exercises. “I don’t like that the shell is made of plastic, but I was surprised how much it felt like a true kettlebell,” they said. 

As much as they loved the feel, that plastic shell did not inspire confidence in its durability — just 1 out of 5. “Plastic is just not durable in a gym setting,” our tester said. “Also, the handle is kind of thin and it didn’t take well to chalk.”

We also think it’s worth shouting out Bowflex’s training content. “Something I loved to see was Bowflex’s library of training videos on their website,” said our tester. “For rookies, kettlebell training can take some getting used to, so I thought that was a nice touch.”

They continued, “I think for anyone short on space, cash, and experience, it’s a great buy. I do wish there were more increments, but I was able to comfortably snatch and goblet squat all day.”

Best Budget Adjustable Kettlebell: Kettle Gryp

Kettle Gryp

Kettle Gryp

This creative option for kettlebell training is ideal for those with tight budgets. Its lightweight and portable design uses dumbbells to unlock kettlebell movements like swings and presses.

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The Kettle Gryp is our budget pick, but we’d also crown it the Most Creative Kettlebell Solution for Broke Lifters. “I love this thing, but it’s not a kettlebell,” said one of our testers. “It’s a urethane kettlebell handle that locks in a dumbbell. Genius.” If you already have a few dumbbells lying around or travel a lot — hotel gyms tend to favor dumbbells over kettlebells — this could be the cheat code you’ve been looking for.

The 29.21-millimeter handle measures a bit smaller than the standard 35-millimeter diameter and earned a 3 out of 5 from our team. “If you have bigger hands, it might take some getting used to,” our tester said. 

Both the handle size and weight distribution contributed to the awkward feel described by our other tester, a USA Olympian. “I thought it felt fine during squats, swings, and deadlifts,” they said. “But for anything with rotation, like snatches or cleans, it was pretty clunky. Carries and get-ups were also OK, but nothing truly felt like using a kettlebell.”

Kettly Gryp recommends using dumbbells up to 55 pounds with handles up to 4.5 inches, which should make it compatible with many of the best dumbbells on the market. 

While we wouldn’t recommend using any piece of fitness equipment in a way that wasn’t intended, we’ll admit that our expert got a little curious during testing. “Never exceed the weight limit! But I was able to fit a 150-pound dumbbell in there,” they said. “I wouldn’t suggest it, but that does tell me it’s a strong piece of equipment.”

Best Adjustable Kettlebell on Amazon: Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set

Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set

Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set

This budget-friendly adjustable kettlebell is one of the highest-rated adjustable kettlebells on Amazon. The textured handle offers an enhanced grip, while its flat base helps keep it upright between sets.

Shop Yes4All

The Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set features a similar adjustment mechanism and build as more expensive options that we’ve tested, but comes with Amazon’s Prime shipping and 30-day return policy. Along with its approachable (and consistently on-sale) price point, we think this affordable adjustable kettlebell is a great option for athletes on a budget.

While its 30-millimeter handle is slightly smaller than the standard 35-millimeter diameter, we think the texture can enhance your grip without feeling too rigid. Customers often point to the grip and seamless weight adjustment as two highlights. “The weights can be adjusted easily and the grip is good on this kettlebell,” reads one customer review. 

Many adjustable kettlebells struggle to replicate the feel of traditional bells, but some customer reviews state that the Yes4All Adjustable Kettlebell Set was uncomfortable during use. “It may be due to my lack of experience, but it feels bulky and awkward,” one review reads. 

Another specifically noted their difficulty performing the kettlebell snatch. “It’s round all over and the plates have “sharp” edges to them. So when you snatch, it hits hard and with those edges, they hurt a bit.”

Benefits of Adjustable Kettlebells

As our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto notes, adjustable kettlebells can help consolidate your home gym equipment, while still offering the versatility of an entire set. “Adjustable kettlebells provide greater access to kettlebell training with less money and less space compared to a full set of fixed kettlebells,” she says. 

“In terms of physiological benefits, kettlebells are fantastic tools for building grip strength, coordination and stability, and explosive strength,” she adds. Below are some of the benefits of these efficient pieces of strength-training equipment.

• Space-Saving: As anyone who loves kettlebell training can attest, it’s difficult finding the space for a full set of weights. “Adjustable kettlebells are a great alternative to standard kettlebells for people who want multiple kettlebell weights but don’t have the space for a full set,” Capritto explains.
• Convenience and Value: Capritto points out that, much like the adjustable dumbbells, experienced lifters are wising up to the value of streamlining their home gym equipment. “Many fitness enthusiasts [are] realizing how convenient they are (and how inexpensive they are compared to an entire set of bells),” she says. “Adjustable kettlebells are a great fit for people who are interested in kettlebell training but don’t have the space or funds to get a full set of fixed kettlebells and a rack for them.”
• Versatility: Because you can adjust the weights of these kettlebells, you can increase the challenge of movements like shoulder presses, deadlifts, and swings as you grow stronger. That versatility could be even more important if your new kettlebell is going to be your go-to piece of weight equipment.
• Greater Explosive Strength: Movements like the kettlebell swing can help build power in your hips and posterior chain. (1) As you gain explosive strength in those areas, you can improve your performance in other exercises like the clean and jerk, or even running.
• Improved Grip Strength: Whether you’re swinging or pressing it, the thick handle of a kettlebell has been shown to improve overall grip strength. (2) Greater grip strength can benefit your performance when lifting the best barbells, dumbbells, and even grocery bags. 

How Much Do Adjustable Kettlebells Cost?

With such a diversity in design, weight ranges, and adjustment mechanisms, it should come as no surprise that the best adjustable kettlebells are available at a variety of price points. The options on our list span from $34.95 all the way up to $299.99. Here is a quick breakdown of how much each of these kettlebells cost.

What to Consider Before Buying Adjustable Kettlebells

Before locking in your own top pick, our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto first recommends doing a bit of math. “It’s important to first understand how kettlebells are manufactured in terms of weight,” she says.

“Kettlebells tend to jump in weight more than dumbbells do, typically in increments of 4 to 8 kilograms.” Once you have a solid idea of the weight range you need, there are a few more factors to keep in mind.

Weight Range 

Depending on their weight range and adjustment mechanism, adjustable kettlebells could replace as little as 5 and as many as 20 (or more) individual kettlebells. Newcomers to a kettlebell training program probably don’t need an adjustable kettlebell that can weigh up to 80 pounds (and we wouldn’t recommend it), while experienced lifters likely won’t benefit from a profile that tops out at just 30 pounds. 

Capritto says to keep your fitness level in mind when checking out your weight options. “You should choose a weight range that provides you with the most versatility for your current strength level.”

Handle and Grip

Whether you prefer to use chalk or not, Capritto recommends looking closely at the size and texture of the handle. “Check the handle diameter to ensure it won’t be too large or small to comfortably fit your hands,” she says. “Also look for information about handle knurling, as you’ll want to be able to get a good grip on it.”

Durability

From cast iron and steel to urethane foam, the builds of adjustable kettlebells can vary in terms of durability. In general — not just in kettlebells — plastic is at a higher risk of cracking or deteriorating over time. 

Because the adjustment mechanisms can be a bit complex, a lot of options utilize some plastic. Capritto just recommends checking how much: “Look for minimal plastic components for a greater degree of durability.”

Intended Workouts

Before securing one of these versatile kettlebells, make sure you have an idea what types of movements you plan on performing with your new kettlebell. “I recommend looking for an adjustable kettlebell with which you can do movements like single-arm shoulder press (lighter), swings (heavier), and deadlifts (even heavier), particularly if your kettlebell is going to be one of the only weighted items in your home gym,” Capritto says.

[Related: Benefits of Kettlebell Swings]

Best Adjustable Kettlebells FAQs

References

1. Jaiswal, P. R., Ramteke, S. U., & Shedge, S. (2024). Enhancing Athletic Performance: A Comprehensive Review on Kettlebell Training. Cureus, 16(2), e53497.
2. Quednow, J., Sedlak, T., Meier, J., Janot, J., & Braun, S. (2015). The effects of high intensity interval-based kettlebells and battle rope training on grip strength and body composition in college-aged adults. International Journal of Exercise Science, 8(2), 3.

The post The 9 Best Adjustable Kettlebells of 2024, Expert-Adjusted, Expert-Approved appeared first on BarBend.

Stair-stepping machines can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to consider a bevy of factors beyond the price tag when searching for your ideal workout machine. To help you get a leg up on your journey, we’ve gotten hands-on with a handful of top silhouettes and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this guide to our favorite affordable stair climbers on the market today.

The 6 Best Affordable Stair Climbers of 2024

• Best Affordable Stair Climber Overall: NordicTrack FS10i
• Best Compact Affordable Stair Climber: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978
• Best Premium Affordable Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02
• Best Budget Affordable Stair Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
• Best Affordable Stair Climber for Streaming: BowFlex Max Trainer M9
• Best Affordable Stair Climber Elliptical Hybrid: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

How We Tested and Chose the Best Affordable Stair Climbers

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best affordable stair climbers, we got hands-on with 22 different equipment silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Price: Finding an “affordable” stair climber can be subjective from budget to budget. We did our best to find silhouettes that hovered around the average $1,450 price tag we’ve associated with high-quality cardio machines, knowing that tech features, durability, available resistance, and other factors can greatly influence the final cost of each product.
• Product Dimensions: Any piece of the best home gym equipment — stair climber, squat rack, or another silhouette — can only be useful if it actually fits within your space. We made sure to include all the available product dimensions for each chosen stepper, highlighting which profiles we feel are more compact and space-friendly than others.
• Stepping Pattern: According to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, you need to move in multiple planes of motion in order to improve your health. As such, we highlighted a variety of stair climbers that feature a more upright stepping motion akin to climbing a flight of stairs, placing emphasis on profiles that combined strides of other machines, like ellipticals or treadmills.
• Available Resistance: Climbing steps for reps can be a calorie-burning effort in itself, but it can be beneficial to seek out a machine that makes ascending each level more of a challenge. Where relevant, we made note of the available resistances strewn across each machine in order to outline which profiles we felt were better suited for more intense training regimens and which were better kept for low-impact workouts.

[Related: The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

Best Affordable Stair Climber Overall: NordicTrack FS10i

NordicTrack FS10i

NordicTrack FS10i

This machine is a stair climber, elliptical and treadmill all in one. It has 24 levels of digital resistance, and you can change your stride to work with the resistance in tread, elliptical, or stair climber mode. 

Shop NordicTrack

While the near-$2,000 price tag of the NordicTrack FS10i may not scream “affordable,” we think it’s one of the best values in the category thanks to its adjustable stride, which essentially combines three machines into one — a stair stepper, elliptical, and treadmill. Plus, we rated the adjustability at 4 out of 5 since changing between movements is automatically toggled during motion.

“While it’s a learned skill set to swap between stepping and gliding mid-workout,” said our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, “I felt I could master it after just a few sessions. I’d use this FS10i for stepping and elliptical work more than running though, as it can be awkward to jog without ever lifting your feet from the oversized pedals.”

Like other NordicTrack equipment, the FS10i is compatible with the iFIT training platform, which offers over 17,000 on-demand workouts across multiple fitness disciplines. Also, the iFIT integration brings AutoAdjust technology to your training — when following along with a trainer-led session, the machine can automatically toggle your resistance and incline in-step with your on-screen instructors.

The FS10i features long, swinging handlebars attached to each leg for added upper-body engagement during training. However, our tester did note they would’ve appreciated a static set of handlebars at the center for less-intense workouts.

From a durability standpoint, our tester rated the FS10i at 5 out of 5. “There was no sense of wobbliness or instability while I tested this cardio machine, and it feels really well-built,” they added. However, this stable makeup does compromise the portability. We scored the FS10i at 3.75 out of 5 for the category given its 284-pound weight and somewhat awkward profile that’s less maneuverable than other steppers we’ve tried.

We also recommend having ample room to house this machine given the movement range of the arms. You don’t want to continuously hit a wall or other structure during training, so it may be best to have this in a dedicated training room over a side corner of your office or living room.

Read our full NordicTrack FS10i Review.

Best Compact Affordable Stair Climber: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978

The SF-S0978 from Sunny Health and Fitness can be an excellent piece of fitness equipment for athletes training in tighter quarters given its 1.45-square-foot footprint. Plus, the included resistance bands can be great for engaging the upper body as you step through your workouts each day.

Shop Sunny Health & Fitness

Climbing machines don’t need to be monstrous silhouettes that consume an entire room. The best mini stair steppers shrink down their footprints closer to that of a milk crate than a standard sofa, including the SF-0978 from Sunny Health and Fitness. With just a 1.45-square-foot footprint and a price tag below $90, it’s easily one of our favorite compact profiles from the category.

Our tester rated the portability and footprint of the SF-0978 at 4 out of 5, stating, “I like how the entire frame is lightweight enough for easier storage in-between workouts. Plus, the resistance bands for upper-body work are removable, so you can easily wrap those up and tuck them away after your sessions.”

The SF-0978 also earned a 3.5 out of 5 for ergonomics thanks to a front toggle that can change your stepping range of motion. The foot pedals are also oversized with a rubber texture for added traction. However, we do caution those with balance issues search for a Sunny Health and Fitness model with upright handlebars — there are no added stabilizing components across this design.

From a build perspective, we rated the SF-0978 at 2 out of 5 given its lower weight capacity. Larger athletes may find the 220-pound rating to be too low for their needs. 

Plus, we noticed that, according to the user manual, the hydraulic shocks that support your stepping intensity can only be used in 15-minute clips. Longer training sessions can lead to overheating and potential damage, so if you’re an individual that prefers longer, grueling workouts, it may be best to pay a little more for a more resilient structure.

Best Premium Affordable Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02

CLMBR Connected 02

CLMBR Connected 02

The CLMBR Connected 02 features adjustable handles for alternating grip positions, as well as a sturdy frame capable of holding up to 350 pounds. Additionally, there’s plenty of tech strewn across the profile, including an integrated app delivering on-demand classes, challenges, guides, and more.

Shop CLMBR

If you’re looking for a stair climber with all the bells and whistles, the CLMBR Connected 02 may be just the ticket. Yes, the near-$4,000 price tag may be off-putting to some budgets (trust us, it really taxed our definition of “affordable”) but the included tech and full-body training experience were enough to have us include it in this guide.

Unlike other stair steppers that just focus on the lower body, the CLMBR Connected 02 parcels its 11 resistance levels across both the pedals and handlebars. This can be great for creating an engaging workout experience that takes you out of the more basic motion planes of, say, treadmills, rowing machines, or ellipticals.

We rated the tech capabilities at 5 out of 5 thanks to the CLMBR Connected 02’s integrated 21.5-inch HD touchscreen. You can pair to the CLMBR app (subscription sold separately) for trainer-led workouts, and the display features Bluetooth connectivity so you can sync your headphones, heart rate monitor, or fitness tracker to the machine.

“I also like that you can still operate the CLMBR in manual mode if a CLMBR app subscription is out of your budget,” added our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor. “You can still generate a worthwhile workout experience, although I will say the interactive programming was worth the $39.99 monthly charge.”

Outside of the higher price point, the main drawback we found with the CLMBR Connected 02 was the warranty coverage, which we rated at 3.5 out of 5. In our experience, most high-end cardio machines offer at least 10- or 15-year support for the frame, if not more, so a one-year coverage plan is definitely below the standard.

Still, though, we were happy with the durability of the machine, as it felt extremely sturdy during trials. We scored the durability at 4.5 out of 5 and foresee minimal issues with the extruded aluminum framing.

Read our full CLMBR Connected 02 Review.

Best Budget Affordable Stair Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber

MaxiClimber Vertical Climber

MaxiClimber Vertical Climber

This simple, compact vertical climber can be a great budget-friendly option for full-body training. The MaxiClimber classic also folds up neatly to just 3.02 square feet, which can be ideal for storing your equipment in less spacious environments.

Shop MaxiClimber

While the term “affordable” can mean many things to different individuals, we can all agree that there’s perks to finding budget-friendly cardio equipment. With its sub-$300 price tag, easy assembly, and worthwhile workout potential, the MaxiClimber Vertical Climber is our pick for wallet-conscious athletes looking for an affordable exercise machine.

The MaxiClimber is a bare-bones piece of equipment in that you essentially have a frame, two handles, and two pedals. Resistance is determined by your bodyweight, so there aren’t any extra toggles to decipher mid-training. 

A small LCD display at the center of the console showcases steps taken and calories burned, nothing more. Sure, some athletes may want a stair climber compatible with the best fitness apps, but for less than $300, we’re willing to make that sacrifice.

The MaxiClimber also stands out given its compact footprint and foldable frame. We scored the dimensions at 5 out of 5 thanks to its foldable design and 33-pound weight. It can be easily maneuvered into position or into a closet once you’re done sweating — other heavy machines may require assistance in order to rearrange your training space.

We rated our overall workout experience at 3 out of 5. “I honestly think that most athletes can get by with the bodyweight resistance featured on this MaxiClimber,” noted our tester. “However, the lower weight capacity and 6’2” height limit may be too small for taller athletes.”

From a durability perspective, we also scored the MaxiClimber at 2 out of 5. Yes, the frame is stable enough to support athletes up to 240 pounds, but there are a handful of plastic components that can become damaged and worn through extended use. 

Plus, we found that there is no bumper mechanism at the base of the pedal track, meaning you’ll need to pay close attention to how intense you step down while training if you want to protect this stepper’s integrity over time.

Read our full MaxiClimber Vertical Climber Review.

Best Affordable Stair Climber for Streaming: BowFlex Max Trainer M9

BowFlex Max Trainer M9

BowFlex Max Trainer M9

The BowFlex Max Trainer M9 features a 10-inch HD touchscreen that’s compatible with the JRNY platform for trainer-led workouts. Additionally, JRNY integrates with top entertainment streaming services, such as Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, which can be great for getting in a workout without the added intensity of an instructor-led course.

Shop Best Buy

Stair climbing, while enjoyable, can get monotonous at times, especially if you aren’t set up with trainer-led courses or entertaining media in front of you. Thankfully, many of the best cardio machines come with built-in displays capable of streaming such services. For our money, the BowFlex Max Trainer M9 is one of the best in the category.

This climber is integrated with JRNY, a fitness app that offers both on-demand training and streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more (though you’ll need your own subscriptions). 

In terms of the tech capabilities, I’d rate the Max Trainer M9 at 4 out of 5. The service has a good array of trainer-led workouts that make the sessions all the more enjoyable, and I do appreciate how JRNY is compatible with apps like Netflix and Hulu for more streamlined entertainment. Other platforms only offer training-based programming, so if you want to take in your favorite series or movie, you’d need to set up in front of your television.

However, I have had some experiences with lagging or glitchy interfaces. You can still get to where you want to go, but the process is less seamless than other silhouettes I’ve tried, including many of the best treadmills with screens.

The Max Trainer M9 also earns some praise given its vertical orientation. In total, you’ll need 16.36 square feet of space to properly house this profile, which is less than your standard two-seater sofa. (2) We rated the footprint and portability at 5 out of 5, too, given the M9’s simple maneuverability — just lift up the back base and wheel the machine into position.

As a final note, I’d recommend placing this elliptical/stair climber machine in an area that doesn’t need to be completely quiet. The flywheel can be noisy at times, which may be a detriment to those living with other roommates or children.

Best Affordable Stair Climber Elliptical Hybrid: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

The SF-E3911 from Sunny Health and Fitness can be a budget-friendly pick for home gym enthusiasts thanks to its approachable price point and space-saving footprint. Plus, the lightweight 69.3-pound frame can be moved easily within your training space, giving you plenty of versatility to set up in a comfortable position.

Shop Sunny Health & Fitness

If you take any time searching for a dedicated stair stepping machine, you’ll likely encounter a slew of elliptical/stepper hybrid models that feature a middle-ground motion plane. These machines can be excellent for creating efficient, low-impact workouts, and at the “affordable” range, the SF-E3911 from Sunny Health and Fitness is tough to beat.

I’ve used this stepper/elliptical hybrid in the past and view it as a worthwhile piece of gym equipment, especially for those training in tighter quarters. I rated the overall footprint at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its compact dimensions and seamless maneuverability. You can easily wheel this SF-E3911 into position in front of your television and store it neatly in a corner when training isn’t top of mind.

[Related: Best Ellipticals for Small Spaces]

From a tech perspective, the SF-E3911 earned a 3 out of 5 given its basic LCD console and lack of preset programming. In essence, you’re constantly training in manual mode, so be sure to keep your willpower in-check if you’re looking to turn to this exercise equipment each day across your fitness journey. 

That said, the SF-E3911 does feature a device holder across the center console, so streaming trainer-led sessions isn’t completely out of the question with this silhouette.

I’d also score the durability at 3.5 out of 5. Granted, I could easily accomplish my intended sessions with this profile, but you do notice some unwanted sway when trying to tackle high-intensity intervals. Plus, the weight capacity is listed at 220 pounds — a lower rating than other stair climbers we’ve tested in the past.

Still, though, I think there’s plenty of value, which I scored at 4 out of 5, in this SF-E3911 silhouette if you take it at face value. Sure, this brand isn’t known for tech-heavy silhouettes, but if you’re just looking for an efficient machine that can help you reach your targeted calorie burn day in and day out, it can easily suffice.

[Related: Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

Benefits of Affordable Stair Climbers

According to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, “Stair climbers are exceptional at boosting your heart rate, increasing muscular endurance in the lower body, and even potentially building some strength in the legs. Even a short, 10-minute workout on a stair climber can send your heart rate soaring.” 

Regardless of price point, below are some of our favorite benefits associated with this low-impact cardio workout discipline as it relates to your personal fitness goals and aspirations.

• Emphasis on Lower-Body Training: While there is room for stair climbers to engage upper-body muscle groups in motion, the main emphasis lies in targeting the glutes, hamstrings, calves, and quads. This can be a great and refreshing way to hit your legs on a machine that’s more compact than a treadmill or elliptical.
• Approachable for All Fitness Levels: We all walk up and down steps each day, so taking that movement into the gym can be a far more approachable endeavor than, say, asking a beginner athlete to perform certain mileage splits atop a treadmill or maintain a certain wattage across an entire rowing machine session. Meier states, “Stair climbers are great for anyone looking to get an intense workout in a short amount of time.”
• Potential for HIIT Training: While stair climbers are inherently low impact given that your feet never leave their respective platforms, you can still generate a gauntlet of HIIT sessions that can be excellent for ramping up your heart rate. For an added dose of intensity, it can be beneficial to opt for a stair climber with adjustable resistance levels.

How Much Do Affordable Stair Climbers Cost?

When it comes to “affordable” stair climbers, the price range can be all over the place given that “affordable” can be subjective to your personal budget. The price can also be influenced by the amount of tech features, stride capabilities, and durability of the machines themselves. For this particular round-up, the average price sits at roughly $1,450, which we believe is a good starting point for those interested in purchasing any new fitness equipment. Read below to compare the prices of each affordable stair climber included in this guide.

What to Consider Before Buying an Affordable Stair Climber

As with any piece of home gym equipment, there are multiple layers to your purchasing process with affordable stair climbers. Of course, price is a major factor to consider, but you should also ensure that your chosen profile can support your frame, fitness goals, and other wants and needs. 

After all, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, states, “A machine is only good if you’ll use it.” Below are some of the main components we recommend thinking through when searching for that ideal affordable stair climber.

Product Dimensions

There’s no sense in purchasing a stair-stepping machine if it can’t fit within your available space. In addition to the actual footprint of the machine (dimensions are commonly listed on the individual product page,) you should also plan for some extra room around the profile itself to allow for easier entry and exit as well as any arm swing that needs to occur in a given step motion.

Typically, we’ve found that cheaper stair climbers come with more compact dimensions, but it’s always a good rule of thumb to take some measurements of your available floor space and adjust your search in relation to those metrics.

If you’re struggling to picture a stepping machine in your home gym, a quick way to determine whether you have enough room is to imagine the exercise equipment as a piece of furniture. For example, your standard loveseat measures 58 inches long by 38 inches wide, or 15.31 square feet. (2) If you can fit a loveseat in your training area without much reconfiguring, you can likely fit a stepper in the same location.

Height and Weight Capacities

A machine that’s too small or weak for your frame likely won’t get the use it deserves. As such, finding a stair climber with a durable enough weight capacity is an absolute must, especially if you plan on using the profile on a regular basis. On average, most stair climbers can support up to 280 pounds, with larger, more expensive profiles capable of 300 pounds or more. Set the weight rating against your own weight to ensure a machine can support your training efficiently.

It can also be beneficial to look at any height capacities listed for your stair climber. These metrics are typically listed on dedicated climbers that feature sliding rails for your hands in addition to the foot pedals. Elliptical-stepper hybrids that engage your upper body but don’t see you reaching upward rarely carry height ratings, so if you’re interested in this particular profile, you won’t need to worry about height as much.

Functionality

When thinking of your stair climber’s functionality, you’re looking at the stepping pattern of the machine. Stair climbers typically fall into three camps: where your motion is literally as if you’re climbing a flight of stairs; where your motion is more rock-climbing-esque with total-body engagement; and where your motion is similar to the gliding stroke of an elliptical.

While there’s no right or wrong answer here — calories and high-intensity workouts are achievable with any of the three designs — you will need to think about which motion plane interests you most, and which you’d likely want to use most often in a given routine.

If you’re interested in the gliding elliptical-stepper motion, we recommend looking at one of the best compact ellipticals over lengthier, traditional silhouettes. The compact design of these machines is typically made possible through a vertical orientation, which gives each step that stair-climbing feel.

Available Resistance Levels

Having a stair climber with multiple resistance levels can be helpful when trying to up the ante every now and again in training. Added resistance can also be a vital must-have if you’re looking to use your stepper for muscle gain across your lower body. 

“This wouldn’t be in the same way you could build muscle strength and power through doing loaded exercises like squats,” adds Meier, “But you may still feel stronger in your legs when it comes specifically to climbing movements like walking uphill or climbing stairs.”

Price

Stair climbers can vary greatly in price depending on their tech features and overall footprint. Logically, a larger machine will cost more than a compact under-desk elliptical, right? If you’re looking for an “affordable” stair climber, though, we recommend starting at prices around $1,450 — the average cost we determined from testing. Of course, you can find silhouettes more or less than this median number, but that’s where your personal definition of “affordable” comes in.

Affordable Stair Climber FAQs

References

1. 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
2. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/