4 best compact ellipticals

Compact ellipticals are exercise machines designed for cardio training and lower body workouts. They are a space-saving alternative to full-sized elliptical trainers, making them suitable for home gyms and smaller living spaces. Here's what you need to know about compact ellipticals:

  1. Size: Compact ellipticals are smaller and more streamlined than traditional elliptical trainers. They are designed to be space-efficient and can easily fit into smaller rooms or apartments.

  2. Stride Length: While full-sized ellipticals typically offer longer stride lengths, compact ellipticals have a shorter stride to accommodate their smaller design. This means that the range of motion during your workout may be somewhat limited compared to larger machines.

  3. Portability: Many compact ellipticals are designed to be lightweight and easy to move, which can be helpful for those who need to store them in a closet or move them around when not in use.

  4. Resistance Levels: These machines usually offer adjustable resistance levels to customize your workout intensity. Some models may have manual resistance adjustments, while others have electronic settings.

  5. Console and Features: Compact ellipticals often come with basic console displays that track workout metrics like time, speed, distance, and calories burned. Some models may also have built-in workout programs and heart rate monitoring capabilities.

  6. Noise Level: They tend to be quieter than larger elliptical machines, making them suitable for home use without disturbing others in the household.

  7. Price: Compact ellipticals are generally more affordable than full-sized elliptical trainers. However, the price can vary depending on the brand, features, and build quality.

  8. Assembly: These machines typically require some assembly when you first acquire them. Assembly difficulty can vary, so it's essential to follow the provided instructions carefully.

  9. Weight Limit: Compact ellipticals may have weight limits, so it's crucial to check the specifications to ensure they can safely accommodate your body weight.

  10. Benefits: Using a compact elliptical can provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout that engages the lower body, including the legs, glutes, and thighs.It can be an effective way to burn calories, improve cardiovascular fitness, and strengthen leg muscles.

  11. Maintenance: Like any exercise equipment, compact ellipticals require regular maintenance, such as lubricating moving parts and checking for loose bolts, to ensure smooth operation and longevity.

In summary, compact ellipticals are a convenient and space-saving option for individuals looking to incorporate cardiovascular exercise and lower body workouts into their fitness routines. They offer a smaller footprint while still providing effective workouts for those with limited space at home. When choosing a compact elliptical, consider your fitness goals, available space, and budget to find the best option for your needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best compact ellipticals on the market
  

Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine

Octane Fitness

Based on 927 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If workout space is a problem, The Schwinn 411 elliptical was built just for you. Featuring the benefits of larger elliptical, the 411 delivers a low impact cardio workout at a fraction of the size. Featuring an 18" Stride, contact and wireless heart rate monitors, and a streamlined console, The 411 makes getting a full-body workout more convenient than ever.

  • Access the Explore the World app and digitally immerse yourself in a world of virtual courses, exotic locales, and stunning trails from around the globe 3 free courses available. Unlock more with Explore the World app subscription.
  • Compact design but still offers the 18" Stride of large elliptical
  • 16 levels of resistance allow you to dial the challenge up or down
  • Streamlined console displays time, speed, distance, calories, and heart RATE
  • Moving and fixed handlebars with contact grip heart RATE sensors
  • Built-in media rack and water bottle holder

User questions & answers

Question: What is the user weight capacity
Answer: 300 LBS!
Question: Does Amazon do deliver the machine inside the house
Answer: UPS guy brought it to my backdoor on a dolly
Question: I need a replacement rear roller wheel for 411 and parts have been an issue. Only 3 weeks old and can not use, do you have parts for this model yet
Answer: I guess I should feel lucky since I got 5 months out of my 411 before having major issues with the roller on the rail. Your best bet is if you can straight up order parts directly on the Schwinn website. All bets are off if you have to actually contact them. They don't respond to email, and wait times on the phone have ranged from 97 minutes to over 2 hours.
Question: We have not had very good luck with home exercise equipment. They seem to break. Does anybody have info regarding durability
Answer: I too was skeptical but am glad I made the purchase. the 411 elliptical is as durable as any health club unit that cost 4 or 5 times more. I've been using mine for nearly 6 months (twice a day) and am extremely satisfied. All connections have remained secure. operation is smooth and quiet and the unit is very stable. a small amount of silicone (that come with the unit) added to the roller frames keeps it properly lubricate

Product features

Space Saving

Low-impact cardio workouts at a fraction of the size of other ellipticals

Stride Length

Space saving design with 18” stride length.

Streamlined Console

Streamlined console displays time, distance, calories, speed and heart rate.

Padded Handlebars

Moving and fixed padded handlebars with heart rate contact grips.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer with 8 Level Resistance and Digital Monitor

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Sunny Health and Fitness Elliptical Bike offers a powerful resistance workout to help you burn calories quicker and more efficiently. Keep track of your workout intensity by monitoring your heart rate with the pulse sensor. Customize the difficulty of your workout with 8 levels of magnetic tension. Achieve safety and stability when you use the anti-slip handlebars and footpads. Monitor your workout progress on the digital monitor that displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse. The compact design makes this elliptical bike a must-have for people who have limited space but still want a great at-home workout solution.

The Sunny Magnetic Elliptical Trainer provides low-impact, cardiovascular training from the comfort of home, at a reasonable price point. Built to provide a smooth upper and lower body workout without jarring impact on the knee joints, the Sunny Elliptical features large anti-slip foot platforms for stability and dynamically moving arms to engage your upper body. Thanks to a system of magnetic resistance, the Sunny Elliptical provides a smooth, flowing motion a micro-tension controller. The Sunny Elliptical also includes a static, hand pulse monitoring system that allows you to take heart rate readings as you work out. The built-in computer provides scan, time, speed, distance, calories, total distance, and pulse functions to help you track and meet your workout goals. Designed to fit easily into any corner of your home, the trainer measures 37.8 by 26.6 by 60 inches (LxWxH) and weighs a manageable 68 pounds. Offered at a fraction of the cost of most elliptical trainers, the Sunny Elliptical is a great way to get started on an effective cardiovascular program from the comfort of home.

Features and Specifications:

  • Magnetic resistance with micro-tension controller
  • Large anti-slip foot platforms
  • Moving arms for upper body workout
  • Hand pulse monitoring system
  • Multi-function workout computer
  • Functions: scan, time, speed, distance, calories, total distance, and pulse
  • Weight capacity: 220 pounds
  • Dimensions: 37.8 by 26.6 by 60 inches (LxWxH)
  • Gross weight: 68 pounds

  • RESISTANCE: Easily adjust the intensity of your workout with the twist of the precise micro-controller equipped with 8 levels of magnetic resistance.
  • DIGITAL MONITOR WITH PULSE: Follow along with your workout progress on the digital monitor that displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse.
  • ANTI-SLIP HANDLEBARS AND FOOT PADS: Complete a safe and stable workout thanks to the anti-slip handlebars and footpads.
  • STABILIZER: Achieve smooth and even movement by leveling your elliptical bike with the onboard stabilizers.
  • COMPACT: This compact machine is ideal for people looking to achieve an incredible workout, but don’t have much space to work with.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the stride length for this elliptical
Answer: I tried one out in-person through a second-hand app (Offer Up). I'm 5'10" with long torso, legs same length of a lot of 5'8" people I know . . . It is a VERY short stride length. Felt more like going up stairs than gliding like a gazelle. Would overtrain quads and not get glutes/hamstrings/calves enough compared to a longer stride. I don't recommend this unless you're quite short or ok with more of a stairstepping than elliptical action.
Question: How do you get rid of the clicking sound
Answer: I have the same problem. All the washers and bolts are good. But the clicking sound seems to come from the right side. Any remedies?
Question: what are the dimensions of the product folded up
Answer: It does not fold up. Once assembled, it is 34" long (at longest point), 20" wide (at widest point), and 60" high (at tallest point).
Question: Is it difficult to assemble
Answer: Is not difficult. Just make sure to read the instructions fully before starting. There are several instructions that say "do this..." and then you do that and right below that it says "note, before doing the above, make sure...". Also, connecting the tension cable in the handlebar post is tricky unless you sprout a 3rd arm. I would recommend having someone else assist you or lay the elliptical on it's side to perform this step.

Product features

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Bike

The Sunny Magnetic Elliptical Trainer provides low-impact, cardiovascular training from the comfort of your own home. Built to provide a smooth upper and lower body workout without jarring impact on the knee joints, the Sunny Elliptical features large anti-slip foot platforms for stability and dynamically moving arms to engage your upper body. This elliptical provides a smooth, flowing motion a micro-tension controller.

Pulse Sensors

Monitor and maintain your target heart rate. Measuring your pulse rate is an important tool for exercising correctly and efficiently. The more steady and prolonged the elevated heart rate is during the workout, the more fat is burned. This important piece of health data will help you better understand your health and fitness status.

Digital Monitor

Tracking your progress on the SF-E905 is simple with the Digital Monitor screen. The heart rate monitor- which quickly tells you how fast your heart is beating - can help you exercise at the correct intensity for maximum results. Exercising with your SF-E905 screen display will showcase the distance and time to keep you focused to achieving any type of personal fitness goals. The convenient scan mode displays your progress to assist you in tracking all your fitness goals.

8-Level Adjustable Resistance

Switch up the intensity of your workout on your SF-E905 with the convenient tension knob. With a simple adjustment, you can increase or decrease resistance so your SF-E905 workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your fitness journey. Utilizing this tool allows the SF-E905 user to engage in different and unique routines in every workout which stimulates the muscles differently and creates a variety of new patterns of workouts.

Transportation Wheels

Making the transformation of your home into your own personal fitness studio is effortless with these convenient transport wheels. Simply tilt and roll out for use or away for storage, no need for heavy lifting or muscle strain. The wheels at the front of the unit allow the user to move their bike around with ease, from room to room, or store it away out of sight.

Floor Stabilizers

To prevent tipping, rocking and swaying on uneven surfaces for carpets and hardwood floors alike. Simply turn until level.

11 inch Stride

With its 11 in stride length for its short burst, step-like motion, the E905 is a compact unit that fits easily into almost any space including bedrooms and small room apartments. Because its so compact, this also makes it much easier to store it away so its out of sight.

Product Dimensions: 28L x 17W x 57H.

Stamina InMotion Compact Strider with Cords

Stamina

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sweat with Small Things

Sure you want be physically fit and healthy, but finding time for a thoroughly effective cardiovascular workout is just plain difficult with your schedule. Besides, you can always get back in shape once you have enough space for a full-size elliptical machine or treadmill. Sound familiar? It's time to leave excuses behind along with any oversized clothing those excuses have earned you. The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider eliminates any "reason" to procrastinate about the health of your body and mind. The incredibly compact, portable, and affordable elliptical lets you conveniently work up a healthy sweat nearly anywhere, anytime.

Efficient Cardio Results

Ever wonder why elliptical machines are so often occupied at the gym? Elliptical trainer workouts are proven to burn a similar number of calories as jogging does, efficiently increasing stamina and energy while toning your hips, buttocks, thighs, and legs. Unlike jogging, however, ellipticals help you reach your fitness and weight loss goals through a low-impact routine that won't jar your back, knees, hips, or ankles. The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider offers the all results without the endless membership fees, crowds, and hassle of driving to the gym.

Always-Available Cardio Workout

The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider is designed for easy portability and complete convenience. It's compact and lightweight enough to take anywhere, so you can fit your cardio workout into your daily schedule with no problem. With non-slip pedals that hold your feet in place without a second thought, you can enjoy the low-impact, joint-friendly exercise while your mind is focused on work. Use the Compact Strider at home or at the office, and when you're finished, you can store it out of sight and out of the way - under your desk or in the closet.

  • Adjustable tension to control workout intensity level; Use while seated or while standing; The foot pedals can be worked in a forward or reverse direction to target your lower body in different ways
  • Convenient handle for easy portablility; Electronic fitness monitor displays number of strides per minute, total number of strides, exercise time, and calories burned or scan all stats
  • Medium resistance tubes with padded, adjustable handles
  • Includes workout DVD
  • Sturdy steel construction, non-slip pedals.Weight Limit:250 lbs
  • Easy to Assemble. Caution-The resistance tubes contain natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions
  • GREAT FOR GAMERS: Get an effective workout while gaming – passive, low-attention exercise promotes leg movement and improved circulation in a non-distracting way while playing video games

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a difference between the stamina strider and eliptical
Answer: These are both strider/ellipticals. The difference is that this unit comes with the upper body workout cords and the other one does not. If you want the upper body cords, please note they cannot be added later to the other models. You would need purchase the unit that comes with them.
Question: How is this machine different from the $90 model
Answer: I saw there were three different prices, with upper body resistance cords. I chose the middle, $139.00. I am happy with it, and that is what counts. It is SO STURDY, very QUIET, and gives you a REALLY GOOD WORKOUT. In fact, I like it much better than our full-sized elliptical, when our full-sized was working.Not sure about the other priced, and maybe there isn't a difference; but, we are very satisfied with the one we have, if that helps you make your decision :) HAPPY FITNESS !!!OH, and I WOULD NOT get one without the upper resistance cords. The cords DO help with balance, as well as giving your arms a GREAT workout.
Question: Is it loud
Answer: Mine started to squeak and sounded like it was coming from where the arm meets the the foot paddle. But I lifted the wheel and found it was actually coming fronm the wheel. I cleaned the wheels but letting it run on some envelopes to clean it. Now sound is gone and runs perfectly smooth and soundless again as normal. Still scratching my head as to how it sounded like it was from the arm. But all good now no oiling needed. Just clean the wheels. No more squeaking! Had it for a few weeks now using it everyday.
Question: How does one get replacement stretch bands for this machine
Answer: Hi Elizabeth: You can call the company at: Call Stamina Products at 1-800-375-7520 for a replacement PART 69, RESISTANCE TUBES, or write to the company at: Stamina, Inc. 2040 N. Alliance, Springfield, MO 65803 (Customer Service1 (800) 375-7520), email: www.staminaproducts.com. They require the model number of your equipment and the part number. Good luck, I may order a spare because I don't think stretch tubes are meant to last forever :-).

Product features

Stamina InMotion Compact Strider with Cords

Getting in a complete, convenient workout is no longer a struggle. With the InMotion Compact Strider, you can tone both your upper and lower body while increasing your cardiovascular endurance. Its carrying handle allows you to take the strider wherever you go, so you can take it to the office or simply to another room in the house.

Use Sitting or Standing:

You have options with the InMotion Compact Strider, and everyone loves options. Use it at a desk or under a table so you can get some work done or focus solely on your workout by using it standing.

Adjustable Tension:

Your progress will never plateau with the strider. The adjustable tension allows you to customize the intensity of your workout. As you get stronger, just increase the tension so you can burn more calories.

Reverse-Motion Pedals:

The reverse-motion pedals allows you to workout you lower body in different ways. When you pedal backwards, you’ll feel the burn more in your quadriceps.

Multi-function Monitor:

Tracking your progress and staying motivated is easy with the multi-function monitor. The monitor displays your strides per minute, total number of strides, exercise time and calories burned. Plus, you can scan through all the stats over the course of your workout.

Medium Resistance Tubes with Handles:

Just like a full-sized elliptical, you can also work your upper body with the InMotion Compact Strider – sitting or standing! Plus, the padded, adjustable handles make upper body work more comfortable.

Handle for Portability:

This strider was designed to go wherever you go. Use it in the office, your home desk or in your living room so you can watch TV – it’s completely up to you.

LifePro Under Desk Elliptical Trainer for Home & Office - Calf Leg Foot Pedal Exerciser - Seated Compact Elliptical Bike Machine - Core Fitness Low Impact Exercise Equipment w/Adjustable Resistance

LifePro

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price
  • SEATED ELLIPTICAL MACHINE: Compact, mini elliptical machine for home use and office use helps you incorporate aerobic exercise wherever you are, with a built-in handle for easy transport. Workout equipment for men, women and seniors provides you with convenient fitness while sitting down.
  • ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE: Customize your workout routine with 8 resistance levels, calibrated to suit your needs. Decrease stress, burn calories, boost your metabolism, and keep track of your progress with the LCD display.
  • UNDER DESK CYCLE: Our under desk bike pedal exerciser features wide pedals with rugged, non-slip rubber surfaces. Improve your core strength, circulation, flexibility and muscle tone while seated at your desk at work or relaxing on the couch.
  • IMPROVE ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: Use this calf exercise machine for pre-workout warmup and post-workout recovery - improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing.
  • LIFETIME WARRANTY: We’re always on your team. Every elliptical bike bearing our name undergoes rigorous scrutiny to make sure it delivers on power and efficacy, and our built-in lifetime warranty ensures LIVE support from our ‘guiding angels.’

User questions & answers

Question: How to return
Answer: Click on 'Return or replace items' on your 'Order Details'.
Question: Would this be good for kids/teens
Answer: My husband who is age 76 uses it for strengthening his legs, recovering from covid. I think it would be good for teens, not sure about children under 12, I think contacting the vendor would be wise, set up was easy and my husband loves the fact he can set the tension, he uses it many times a day and it has really helped him. His PT guy was 100% happy with this trainer.
Question: Can you stand up exercising on this unit
Answer: Hi there! Thank you so much for reaching out to us. We stand by 100% on our [[ASIN:B08HPPBPLT Flexstride Under Desk Elliptical Trainer for Home & Office]] Unfortunately, we really do not recommend for you to stand while using the unit for your safety as you might get out of balance while doing this. Let me know if you have other questions. :) Joel
Question: So how is this different than the cubii under desk elliptical  ? This Lifepro Flexcycle seems the same
Answer: I owned already the cubii exercise equipment, wanted to buy one for my partner and I decided to try this Lifepro brand and it works the same, not sure why I would spend $349 again.

Product features

Flexstride

Discover the power of your body's potential by building muscle and improving flexibility. We believe in taking an active role to gain strength, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals.

Powered by You

Manually powered, with 2 AAA batteries included for the monitor. No charging, no wires, no electricity required.

Max User Weight: 110lb per pedal.

8 Resistance Levels

Adjustable tension for different exercise needs. Use low resistance for circulation and pain relief. Higher resistance burns calories faster and improves bone density.

Convenient Fitness

Incorporate aerobic exercise wherever you are. Keep the Flexstride mini elliptical near the couch and exercise while watching TV, or slip it under your desk at the office to keep your muscles loose while you work.

Convenient Cycling

Aerobic exercise for just 15 minutes a day can increase your muscle flexibility and bone density, improve your circulation, and boost your metabolism.

Healthy Weight Loss

Consistent exercise builds muscle mass and boosts metabolism, so you keep burning calories more efficiently even while resting.

Accelerate Healing

Add the Flexstride to your rehab routine to prevent future injuries and find relief for joint pain and back pain, it is a fantastic desk exercise equipment.

LCD Display

The vibrant LCD display makes it easy to check your progress, showing total strides, distance traveled, calories burned and duration of workout.

Portable Exercise Equipment

Weighs just 26.5lbs and includes a built-in handle, so you can take it to the office or easily move it from one room to another.

Rugged Surface

The wide pedals, with non-slip rubber surface, provide stability while you train. Product Dimensions: 22.7 L x 18.5 W x 12.9 H

We've Got Your Back

Easy to assemble right out of the box, plus live support for as long as you own your Flexstride. Check out our training videos for additional tips and advice.

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