Embarking on a weight loss journey? A good place to start is with a well-devised nutrition and training program. The best cardio machines can be an excellent tool to get you moving more in an effort to facilitate weight loss, and there’s no shortage of profiles to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a top treadmill, quality rowing machine, enthralling exercise bike, or another type of machine, each offers specific perks and features that can make burning calories a calm and cool endeavor.
With such a wide array of options to choose from, though, it helps to know just what to look for when deciding on a cardio machine for weight loss. Also, these machines are likely to be one of the most expensive purchases you make in your fitness journey. To help you make the right decision from the start, we’ve gathered our notes and research findings to curate this well-rounded guide for you. No matter how you take your cardio workouts, odds are we’ve been hands-on with a profile that fits the bill. Read on for our roundup of the best cardio machines for weight loss.
The 9 Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss of 2024
- Best Recumbent Bike for Weight Loss: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
- Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: NordicTrack Commercial S22i
- Best Smart Cardio Machine for Weight Loss: Speediance
- Best Stair Climber for Weight Loss: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
- Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
- Best Compact Cardio Machine for Weight Loss: WalkingPad P1
- Best Treadmill for Weight Loss: Sole F80
- Best Rowing Machine for Weight Loss: LIT Method Strength Machine
- Best Online Training Program for Weight Loss: iFIT
Best Recumbent Bike for Weight Loss: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
This recumbent bike has 100 different resistance levels, so there's something for every athlete. You also get a more budget-friendly price tag, compared to other machines with similar abilities.
The best recumbent bikes cater to those with hip, back, and joint problems with a reclined seat that offers more support as you pedal. Studies suggest that this reclined cycling position can help decrease the amount of load experienced across the ACL. (8) The Horizon 5.0R is one of our favorites, with a user-friendly design and 100 resistance levels that can suit both beginner and seasoned athletes on a weight loss journey.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scores this bike’s adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5, citing the width and padding of the seat, which was designed with lumbar support in mind. Adjustability comes at the turn of a lever, and we think the majority of users should be able to find a setting that can comfortably accommodate their frame.
“The step-through frame also makes this recumbent bike more approachable for athletes with lower mobility ranges or those simply looking for a more convenient setup protocol before getting into a workout,” notes our tester.
Durability scores a 5 out of 5, as our tester experienced no sobbing or shaking during their rides. One area where the bike falls short, however, is in its tech and dynamic programming, both of which score a 3 out of 5.
We like that you can connect your mobile device to the 5.0R with Bluetooth — and that the display includes a device holder so you can follow along to classes — but our tester was disappointed that the bike isn’t compatible with iFIT, one of the best cycling apps we’ve tested. “The only app this bike isn’t compatible with is iFIT,” says our tester. “For those interested in iFIT’s programming library, I’d recommend to opt for NordicTrack Commercial R35.”
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: NordicTrack Commercial S22i
The NordicTrack Commercial S22i is high-tech and high quality, featuring both advancements like a 22” touchscreen display, and solid specs like 24 levels of quiet magnetic resistance.
Cycling indoors can be a great way to target your weight loss goals, with studies indicating that the activity may improve aerobic capacity, blood pressure, lipid profile, and body composition. (3) This luxury bike from NordicTrack is prime for any athlete thanks to its impressive build quality and slew of available settings. This is one of the best exercise bikes we’ve tested, in no small part due to it having an impressive 24 resistance levels and both incline and decline adjustments.
We also enjoyed the massive 22-inch display console that provides crystal clear visuals and metrics in training. Plus, the console can swivel 360 degrees, creating the perfect viewing arrangement to follow along with iFIT’s library of on-bike and off-bike classes. Tech capabilities and dynamic programming score a 5 out of 5.
“I really enjoy having both virtual rides and studio classes at my disposal, as it makes the entire training experience more engaging,” says our tester. “You can essentially escape to some of the world’s most beautiful locations and pedal through the scenery without leaving your abode.” It’s worth noting, though, that an iFIT subscription will cost an additional $39 per month, and we think it’s essential to this bike’s appeal.
Durability scores a 4 out of 5. “There’s no wobbliness across the profile when taking on high-intensity workouts, and I also appreciate the higher 350-pound weight capacity,” they say. “I’ve typically seen exercise bikes with listed ratings of 250 or 300 pounds, so this NordicTrack profile is above average in my book.”
Transport, however, can be difficult due to the cumbersome nature of the 22-inch display and the lack of a back transport handle. And while we found assembly to be approachable — a 4.5 out of 5 — we do think you’ll want to have a helper on hand when putting this bike together. “Having a helper can make the entire process go much smoother, especially when trying to run the wiring from the base of the bike up to the console,” says our tester.
Of course, you can pay to have a professional assemble the bike, or you can opt for a bike like the Peloton, where assembly is included in the overall cost.
Read our full NordicTrack Commercial S22i Review.
Best Smart Cardio Machine for Weight Loss: Speediance
This smart gym features a pair of cables, and a foldable platform to perform your workouts. The small footprint makes it an ideal solution for those who are tight on space, but still want to get a solid workout in.
Burning calories is only one component of a sustainable weight loss plan. If you want to lose fat and hold on to muscle, you’ll also want to incorporate strength into your cardio routine. (7) You can grab a pair of the best dumbbells, if you like, or you can opt for something more versatile. Speediance, for example, is a smart home gym with a built-in fitness platform that’s nothing if not adaptable. In fact, our tester, certified nutrition coach Jake Herod, scores its versatility a 4.5 out of 5.
“Weight training is perhaps the most valuable use of your time in the gym if you’re trying to lose fat,” says BarBend editorial member Jake Dickson, a certified personal trainer. “Lifting accomplishes what aerobic exercise alone cannot; it helps you to build muscle… too much cardio coupled with a low-calorie diet and no strength training is a recipe for muscle loss.” (7)
The centerpiece of Speediance is a pair of cable pulleys that offer up to 220 pounds of electromagnetic weight resistance. This design can support everything from strength and HIIT training to yoga and bodyweight exercises, and its vast array of on-demand, trainer-led classes can help you cultivate a diversified routine.
Better yet, Speediance can utilize its smart features (and an introductory strength assessment), to automatically select the amount of weight you’ll be lifting during sets in a way that encourages progressive overload. Herod scores its smart features a 4 out of 5, noting that the only thing that’s missing is a camera and sensors to provide real-time form feedback. If that feature sounds appealing, check out the Tonal, another of the best smart home gyms we’ve tested.
Any home gym with cables, Herod notes, will take some getting used to, especially during bench presses and squats. “It can feel a little unstable at times,” he says. “That’s just something you have to deal with.”
Some initial discomfort, however, might be worth it due to the space-saving qualities of this machine’s streamlined design, which sits flush with a wall. “The platform folds up and has a set of wheels,” says Herod, who scores the portability a 5 out of 5. “That can cut down even more on that footprint and make it really easy for you to move around your personal space.”
See him unpack the pros and cons of Speediance in the below video review.
Read our full Speediance Home Gym Review.
Best Stair Climber for Weight Loss: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
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.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is less a proper stepper than it is an elliptical-stepper hybrid, so it can work the glutes, thighs, and lower body like one of the best stair climbers while also getting the upper body in on the cardio party with its elliptical-style arms, thus allowing for a total-body workout that tones various muscle groups as it torches calories.
But make no mistake — the M6 will make you sweat. “I work out a lot, and even the first level of resistance brought intensity to the workout,” says one BarBend tester, a certified personal trainer. “Crank the resistance up to level 16, and you’ll feel like you’re trying to move through quicksand.”
The M6 also includes a speedometer-like calorie counter, which our testers found motivating. Basically, the harder you push, the more the dial moves — a signal that you’re burning more calories. “It lets you know when to pick up the pace (or turn it back a notch) during your workout,” says Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member.
Between that and the stair stepper’s Bluetooth capabilities, USB charging port, and media shelf, Meier scores its tech a 4 out of 5. The M6, however, lacks a built-in touchscreen of its own, though you can find one on the (pricier) Max Total 16.
Durability also scored high at a 4.5 out of 5. Meier likes the oversized pedals and how stable it felt during use. “The floor stabilizers come in handy,” Meier says. “If it starts to rock during a particularly intense workout, it’s not a disaster — just make some quick adjustments with the stabilizers and you’ll be good to go again.”
The hybrid design can also help save you some space — compare the 46-inch length of the M6 to the 58.5-inch length of the comparable NordicTrack FS10i. We score its footprint and portability a 4.5 out of 5. We do, however, wish Bowflex offered a better warranty — a 2-year frame warranty is well below the 10-year industry standard.
Read our full Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Review.
Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
With 26 levels of resistance, incline and decline capabilities, and an adjustable stride length that toggles to your personal preferences, the AirGlide 14i is one of the most tech-savvy and feature-rich ellipticals on the market. Plus, like other NordicTrack machines, this elliptical is compatible with iFIT, unlocking over 17,000 live and on-demand workout programs for a fresh sense of training each time you hop on for a session.
The best ellipticals pair gliding pedals with moving arms for a full-body workout that delivers the benefits of both cardio and strength training. NordicTrack’s AirGlide 14i is among the best we’ve tested, offering challenge and stability via 26 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance and a nifty 32-pound flywheel that’s double the industry standard of 16 to 20 pounds. After sweating it out on the 14i, our tester scores their workout experience a 5 out of 5.
Part of the 14i’s appeal is in its integration with the iFIT platform, which offers more than 17,000 on-demand classes via the built-in 14-inch touchscreen. In addition to classes, iFIT offers scenic workouts in locales across the world, as well as automatic resistance adjustments. “When I was taking a class, the automatic resistance adjustment allowed me to focus on climbing the mountains I saw on screen, rather than constantly fiddling with buttons and changing my resistance,” they say.
Better yet, iFIT also offers strength and mobility workouts you can take off the elliptical trainer. Since strength-training is a key component of sustainable weight loss — the more muscle you have relative to body fat, the more calories you’ll burn at rest on a daily basis — this access to a well-rounded fitness platform can help with fat loss. Dynamic programming scores a 5 out of 5, but know that an iFIT subscription does cost an additional $39 a month.
Our testers also love this machine’s 15% incline and -5% decline — decline is rare on an elliptical machine — but they were slightly disappointed by how loud the motor was during adjustments. “The incline motor is loud when it’s working to adjust — which might be distracting and disturbing for some users. I could definitely hear it over my music,” says our tester. (If it’s peace and quiet you’re after, we’d recommend the Sole E25 elliptical.)
We also wish there was a bit more storage available, with our tester scoring the conveniences a 4 out of 5. “It’s a little inconvenient that there isn’t a ton of storage on this elliptical,” they say. “The water bottle holder is nice and big, but there’s no shelves to stash my phone or a media shelf to hold my tablet if I wanted to stream Netflix.”
Read our full NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Review.
Best Compact Cardio Machine for Weight Loss: WalkingPad P1
This WalkingPad is among the most convenient for those who prioritize their daily steps. This foldable treadmill sits flat and can fit right under your desk.
If you’re strapped for space and walking for weight loss, an under-desk treadmill or a walking pad can be preferable to a full-sized machine. We’re particularly fond of the WalkingPad P1, which works to bridge the gap between big and small with a 47-inch deck — 6 to 8 inches longer than most walking pads, but 8 to 13 inches shorter than the average treadmill.
It can even fold up when not in use, resulting in a portability score of 4.5 out of 5. “It folds completely in half, and with the attached transport wheels it was pretty easy to move it around when I wasn’t using it,” our tester notes. “I’m also giving high marks for setup because right out of the box it was ready to go — all I had to do was plug it in.”
Since it’s not designed for running — the WalkingPad P1 only reaches a top speed of 3.75 miles per hour — durability isn’t this treadmill’s strong suit. That said, our tester has seen no issues after using their P1 daily for a year and a half. “I’m pretty surprised at how well it has held up,” they say, scoring durability a 3 out of 5.
The P1 can, however, take a minute to boot up. “The remote, too, can be a bit frustrating,” says our tester, whose remote broke after roughly a year. The bright side, they note, is that you can also control the speed using the WalkingPad app. “It connects to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth,” says our tester, scoring tech capabilities a 3 out of 5. “And honestly, I think I prefer that to the remote.”
As we noted earlier, the P1 is designed for walking, not running. If you’d like a portable treadmill that can do both, check out the GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill, which includes adjustable handrails that allow it to function as both an under-desk unit and a traditional tread.
Read our full WalkingPad Review.
Best Treadmill for Weight Loss: Sole F80
The SOLE F80 treadmill is full of modern touches. It can withstand long runs, offers an incline range up to 15% and speed range up to 12 mph, and has a cushioned deck that makes running 40% less impactful on your joints than the outdoors.
Studies have shown that, when compared to working out on a rowing machine or elliptical, running on a treadmill can be one of the most effective ways to maximize your fat-burning potential in training. (4) For these fitness goals, we’re big fans of the F80 profile from Sole. We appreciate the features of this sub-$2,000 machine — one of the best treadmills we’ve tested — including the max speed of 12 miles per hour. This top end setting can facilitate all-out sprints, allowing you to really up the intensity for a better caloric burn in training. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scores their overall workout experience a 4.5 out of 5.
Sole touts its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology as being able to reduce impact on joints by 40%. We can’t confirm or deny that, but we can say that the cushioning felt good under our tester’s feet. “It’s not too plush or soft, yet not hard, either,” they say, scoring the ergonomics a 4 out of 5.
We also like that this tread features a 15% incline — above average for comparable machines — though we do wish it had a decline feature. “I do wish it had even a -3-percent decline,” says our tester. “However, a 15-percent incline is more than enough for an extra burn.”
Also of note are the tech upgrades to the F80 that Sole deployed In 2023. Now, athletes can access entertainment apps like Spotify and Netflix — and even mirror content from your mobile device — via the 10.1-inch touchscreen. “The previous model didn’t even have a touchscreen, but now you can mirror anything you want from your phone or tablet,” they said. Sole has its own app, Sole+, but the content is lacking compared to fitness apps like iFIT and Peloton.
At 274 pounds, though, this is a heavy machine. It can fold up when not in use, which is great, but we wouldn’t suggest moving it around very much. If you’re in the market for a treadmill you can easily roll from one room to another, check out our list of the best lightweight treadmills, which includes models like the 180-pound Horizon T101.
Read our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review.
Best Rowing Machine for Weight Loss: LIT Method Strength Machine
This rower from Lit Method combines the functionality of a rowing machine with the strength benefits of resistance band training, as well as a Pilates reformer for total-body workouts. With your purchase, you'll receive a free month of membership to the LIT app where you can choose from over 3,000 instructor-led and scenic workouts. Currently you can get $650 off the Base Pack, $900 off the Plus Pack, and $1,000 off the Total Pro Pack.
Rowing for weight loss is a worthwhile, low-impact endeavor, and this impressive rig from LIT combines all the perks of the activity with an added dose of resistance training. The LIT Method Strength Machine comes equipped with two tubed resistance bands that allow you to take your training off the rowing machine itself, giving your sessions another layer of calorie-burning potential.
“Five pairs of anchor points on the machine let you do different low-impact workouts with your resistance bands,” says BarBend tester Jake Herod, scoring customizations 5 out of 5. The bands hook into the rig itself, so be sure to anchor your setup appropriately before stretching to peak resistance levels — our tester found that the rowing machine can move if you really stretch the bands to their maximum range.
Looking at the rowing mechanism itself, the LIT Method Strength Machine employs a unique water resistance system that can be adjusted between 10 and 40 pounds. “You have four different levels, depending on how lit you want to be,” he says, scoring adjustability a 5 out of 5. “Each level corresponds to 10 pounds of resistance.” We like this setup as it gives each stroke a more natural, on-water sensation.
The machine doesn’t fold up, but it can be stored vertically, reducing its footprint of 7 feet by 2 feet to just 2 feet by 2 feet. Unfortunately, we encountered a few issues when lifting it upright. “I personally have not been able to store it vertically — well, I’ve tried. The water starts leaking out of the drum,” he says. “That might not be the case with everybody, but it’s something I’ve run into.” Footprint and portability scores a 4 out of 5.
As Herod’s plight demonstrates, water rowers can be more unwieldy than the best magnetic rowing machines. They can also be more utilitarian — this LIT profile, for example, lacks a display. If you’ve got the extra bucks to spend and want a more tech-savvy rower that requires less upkeep, check out the NordicTrack RW900 or the Hydrow Rower.
Read our full LIT Method Strength Machine Review.
Best Online Training Program for Weight Loss: iFIT
The iFit app features a library of over 16,000 live and on-demand classes that range from mental health and recovery to rowing, running, HIIT and strength classes. You can get the full studio experience virtually through iFit, and is a great boost to any home gym set-up — with or without equipment.
If you haven’t picked up on it yet, we’re big fans of what iFIT brings to the at-home fitness space, especially when it comes to sweating toward a weight loss goal. This online workout program packs more than 17,000 on-demand classes and scenic workouts that encompass cardio, strength, mobility, and more. We also appreciate its availability across multiple fitness equipment brands, including NordicTrack, ProForm, Freemotion, Weider, and Matrix.
Our tester scores their overall experience with the app a 5 out of 5, calling it “a true Peloton competitor.” They also found it easy to navigate, scoring ease of use a 4.5 out of 5. “Within a few uses the app was easy to navigate, although I found it slightly less intuitive than something like the Peloton App,” they say.
We’re especially big fans of the scenic experiences, which can immerse users in tropical locales or crowded cityscapes. “I did a workout in Hawaii and the views were gorgeous,” says BarBend editorial member Kate Meier. And if you’re using it on an iFIT-compatible machine, the app’s AutoAdjust feature can automatically set your incline and speed settings based on your class.
iFIT is pricey, though, costing $39 a month. This is about on par with Peloton, but if you want to save a few bucks, we recommend looking at iFIT’s yearly payment options. Paying upfront for an entire year’s worth of service ($396) can save you roughly $72, while a two-year plan ($699) can help keep $237 in your pocket. If that’s still too rich for your blood, we also recommend the JRNY app — it’s not as immersive as iFIT, but monthly subscription costs begin at $11.99 per month.
Also, if you’re looking for accountability, you may be better served by one of the best personal training apps. “I found that the app was mostly self-guided, meaning you didn’t have any notifications or check-ins to work out like you’d have with other services,” says our tester. “The app does offer challenges, though, which can help you hit any pre-set milestones for strength or weight loss. There’s even a post-accomplishment email to congratulate you on the progress.” Accountability scores a 3.5 out of 5.
Read our full iFIT Review.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss
BarBend’s team of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and CrossFit trainers has tested well over 200 cardio machines, from treadmills and exercise bikes to the best rowing machines and steppers. During our trials, we utilized the BarBend equipment testing methodology to score each machine on a scale of 1 (yay) to 5 (boo) in areas such as footprint, programming, durability, and more. Here are a few of the key factors we looked at when curating this roundup.
- Footprint: Of course, one of the first things to consider when looking at cardio machines, or any home gym machine for that matter, is whether the device can actually fit in your space. While all of the cardio machines in this roundup showcase a unique silhouette, we did our best to include the overall dimensions to give you a good indication of the required floor space. We also made sure to note space-saving qualities such as a foldable design, vertical storage capabilities, and more.
- Available Programming: Whether through pre-programmed modules across the main console or a connected experience with a third-party platform, having a little bit of variety can be helpful. Many of the cardio machines we tested for this guide feature integration with platforms such as iFIT, which are useful vessels for delivering the best exercises for weight loss. If not, we made sure to look for components like a built-in media shelf, so you can still follow along with your favorite training programs despite the more basic setups.
- Tech Features: We made note of certain cardio machines that boast traditional tech features like HD touchscreen displays and Bluetooth connectivity, but digital resistance systems, smooth settings adjustments, and more were also critiqued when building out this round-up.
- Extra Conveniences: We looked for machines offering added perks that made storage and mid-training setups more bearable. Accommodating cup holders? Built-in media shelves? More convenient storage solutions? That’s the good stuff.
- Price: Comparing prices across cardio machine categories can be difficult, especially since different equipment can deliver different experiences to an athlete. So, we did our best in this guide to compare each profile against its respective category, providing notes wherever relevant to point out high-value finds as well as where heightened price tags were more justified.
Benefits of Cardio Machines for Weight Loss
Studies show that regular aerobic exercise can be an important adjunct to a weight-loss program. (6) So, it makes sense that machines designed for cardio training can benefit your waist-slimming journeys, too, right? Below are just a few of the top perks that can be reaped when turning to a quality cardio machine for fat loss.
- Improved Health: “The benefits of using cardiovascular exercise equipment like a treadmill, exercise bike, rower, or elliptical is primarily for the heart and respiratory system or cardiovascular system,” explains Dr. Karena Wu, a physical therapist. “Any repetitive exercise will work the heart muscle and blood vessels to improve circulation. Your respiratory rate and function will also improve as you continuously breathe through the repetitive exercise to oxygenate your tissues. Muscle strength will increase as well and the benefits of this equipment mean weight loss, fat burning, and increased lean muscle mass.”
- Caloric Burn: If you want to boil weight loss down to a simplified thought, it can best be summarized as trying to maintain an efficient calorie deficit, or, expending more calories than you’re consuming. (5) Cardio machines can be great for keeping your body moving in multiple directions and monitoring your burned calories during training. Of course, weight loss requires more than just an active lifestyle. “You want to be strategic about your diet in a calorie deficit,” Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a board-certified physician, tells BarBend. “In order to feel full, maintain muscle mass, and stay energized in a calorie deficit, stack your plate with whole foods, like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Decrease your intake of added sugars, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated.“
- Intuitive Operation: Granted, there’s a specific form and practice that goes into any exercise, but since cardio machines often see you working out in a more controlled plane of motion atop a saddle, on a track, or on a running deck, they can be viewed as more approachable workouts than, say, free weights or other workout disciplines. After all, many cardio machines ask you to perform some form of walking, running or cycling — all acts that most athletes can understand from the start regardless of their training experience.
How Many Calories Should You Burn in a Workout?
There are many factors that can influence how many calories you burn in a given cardio workout such as your bodyweight, length of training session, method of training, and more. Below are some common ranges that can be expected from certain 30-minute cardiovascular exercises at moderate intensity, gathered by researching athletes with listed bodyweights of 125, 155, and 185 pounds. (1)
- Treadmill (12 minutes per mile): 240-336 calories
- Treadmill Walking (15 minutes per mile): 135-189 calories
- Rowing Machine: 210-294 calories
- Exercise Bike: 210-294 calories
- Elliptical: 270-378 calories
- Stair Climber: 180-252 calories
What to Consider Before Buying a Cardio Machine for Weight Loss
When looking for your own cardio machine to bolster your fat-burning training regimen, there are a few things worth considering. Below are a few things worth remembering when trying to decide on the ideal profile for your workout wants and needs.
Price
If you shop around for cardio machines, you’re likely to encounter a number of varying price points, especially when looking at rowing machines versus exercise bikes versus treadmills, and so on. While there are a handful of worthwhile options under $1,000, you’re more likely to see prices between $1,000 and $2,000, with some even surpassing that top end.
These higher costs may dissuade some athletes from buying a cardio machine for their home, but thankfully, some brands offer payment plans that can help spread the expense out over a handful of months. If you’re in need of a cheaper route yet still want to add a cardio machine to your weight loss program, this can be a good perk to search for.
Equipment Footprint
There’s no sense in searching for a cardio machine if you can’t conveniently store it in your home or garage gym. It can help to understand just how much available space you have before even beginning your research. This preliminary information can also help narrow down your machine options. For example, if you don’t have an abundance of room in your apartment or training space, a quality exercise bike or folding treadmill could be a solid way to get in some cardio without sacrificing your entire floor plan. If you have more room to work with, larger, more static machines like an elliptical or recumbent bike could be worthwhile picks depending on your interests.
Fitness Goals
If you’re looking for a quality machine just to burn calories, then your options for cardio equipment are practically limitless, but if you have other fitness aspirations, it can be helpful to match your equipment to those goals as well. Think about what you’d like to accomplish with your training outside of just dropping a few pants sizes, and pair your equipment accordingly. If you’d like to train for an upcoming race or have running-based goals in your future, a treadmill can be an excellent option. More of a cycling fan? Consider an exercise bike.
Looking for cardio machines with multiple goals in mind can also help you justify the heightened upfront costs of the machines, too. Tackling multiple goals atop one singular profile means you’ll likely use the machine more frequently over time, which can help you get the most out of the machine itself rather than turning it into a glorified clothes rack once you’ve hit your targeted weight.
[Related: How to Burn Fat]
Included Features
Training for weight loss should be a comfortable, enjoyable experience with your cardio machine, so be sure to look for profiles offering the features you value when it comes to your workouts. These can be as basic as a roomy cup holder or well-cushioned seat, to more intricate offerings like integration with an online training platform, heart rate monitoring, and more.
It’s important to note, though, that the more feature-laden silhouettes often come with a higher price tag, so be sure to weigh the importance of these components when looking for a cardio machine that matches your fitness needs as well as your budget.
Cardio Machines for Weight Loss FAQs
Which cardio machine burns the most fat?
There’s no clear and concise answer as to which cardio machine can burn the most fat in a given workout. How many calories you burn in a session is entirely dependent on a number of factors, including your bodyweight, training intensity, training duration, and others. Controlled studies have indicated, however, that moderate, 30-minute sessions with an elliptical machine can generate a higher caloric burn than other modalities under the same intensity and duration. (1)
Can you lose weight with 30 minutes of cardio a day?
Yes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise three to five days a week can generate weight loss. That said, it’s important to pair your exercise regimen with a proper nutrition plan to help give yourself the best shot possible at achieving your weight goals. (2)
What is the easiest form of cardio for weight loss?
The “easiest” cardio for weight loss is subjective, but there are cardio machines that offer training setups with a lower-impact to your body and joints. For example, seated exercises like rowing and cycling can be easier on your knees than, say, running on a treadmill or walking up a stair climber. This is because your feet are in constant contact with the machine itself, taking the gravity and force you’d experience in your landing stride out of the equation.
What is the best cardio machine for weight loss?
The best cardio machine for weight loss is the one you’ll actually use, whether that’s an exercise bike, a treadmill, a rowing machine, or even an app that you can use for bodyweight exercises. The goal of this piece is to introduce you to several of our favorite cardio machines, including the NordicTrack s22i Exercise Bike or the WalkingPad P1, so you can get a sense of which one is best suited for your fitness routine.
References
- 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
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 26). Physical activity for a healthy weight. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/physical_activity/index.html
- Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina, 55(8), 452.
- Filipovic, M., Munten, S., Herzig, K.-H., & Gagnon, D. D. (2021). Maximal fat oxidation: Comparison between treadmill, elliptical and rowing exercises. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 170–178.
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