Elliptical machines are the best exercise equipment for low-impact cardio workouts. They are compact and easily fit in a home gym or a small room. Many people buy treadmills, but they are noisy and put a lot of stress on your joints.
An elliptical trainer gives you a feeling similar to running, but it is low impact. Such ellipticals are great for people who have knee pain, injuries, or aching joints.
This cardio machine targets multiple muscle groups and aids in weight loss for obese people. The elliptical is high-quality exercise equipment that works on upper and lower body muscles without causing stress. Moreover, high-weight capacity ellipticals provide good stability, varying resistance, and rotating handles.
Heavy-duty elliptical machines are costly, but there are many machines that you can obtain at an affordable price. Expensive machines are heavier with a larger footprint since they have larger frames, and the features also increase depending on the machine’s cost.
Table of Contents
The Best Heavy-Duty Elliptical for Obese Are:
- Teeter Freestep Recumbent Cross Trainer – Best for Targeting Specific Areas
- Niceday Elliptical Machine – Varying Resistance Levels
- Bowflex Max Trainer – Great For Intense Workouts
- SOLE Fitness E35 – Premium Elliptical Machine
- HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT – Great for Upper Body Workout
Teeter Freestep Recumbent Cross Trainer – Best for Targeting Specific Areas
The Teeter Freestep is a recumbent elliptical trainer used for low-impact exercise for overweight people. It is one of the best heavy-duty elliptical machines that can be used comfortably, even by those who have arthritis or aching joints.
It has an adjustable seat so you can adjust its angle and height according to your comfort level. The pedals give a linear to-and-fro motion similar to stepping and provide an excellent workout to the hips and knees. The linear motion puts less stress on the lower body but helps lose weight.
It has a magnetic resistance system, so the machine moves without making a sound. The resistance levels are adjusted by turning the dial near the adjustable seat.
The adjustable upper body handles target specific muscle areas that you can rotate depending on which part of your body you focus on, such as back vs. chest or triceps vs. biceps.
A small digital console shows workout stats such as speed and calories and is operated by batteries. It has a built-in stand for holding a tablet or a phone during your workout session and a separate water bottle holder.
Teeter has its fitness app that gives you workout guidance, ideas, and exercises that you can use in your weight loss journey.
Pros
- Low-impact linear pedal motion
- Adjustable seat and handle
- Affordable price
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Poor warranty
Niceday Elliptical Machine – Varying Resistance Levels
The Niceday elliptical is a quiet machine that makes little sound, so fitness enthusiasts love it. It is built with magnetic resistance technology, where electromagnets are responsible for canceling out sound and generating good resistance levels.
It has oversized foot pedals, a maximum stride length of 15.5 inches, and robust steel pipes, making this machine suitable for people as tall as 6’2 inches and weighing up to 400 lbs.
The Niceday Elliptical Machine has an LCD that displays information such as calories burned, speed, and workout duration. Hence, you can track your progress during each session.
There are moveable handles that support arm workouts and fixed handles that help strengthen thighs.
Whether you are a newbie or a pro athlete, the Niceday elliptical is a good choice of exercise equipment with 16 levels of resistance so you can challenge yourself in each workout.
It has a rear-mounted flywheel that allows users to pedal in both forward and backward directions giving you a good leg workout.
Moreover, the machine is prebuilt and takes less than 30 minutes to assemble. The machine has easy assembly and comes with simple instructions.
Pros
- Easy assembly with step-by-step instructions
- 16 resistance levels
- Transportation wheels for moving
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Short stride length
Bowflex Max Trainer – Great For Intense Workouts
The Bowflex Max Trainer is the top model of the Max Trainer series, famous for its three-in-one elliptical, stepper, and treadmill design. It supports up to 300 lbs of body weight.
Bowflex is one of the top home fitness equipment manufacturers and has recently gained much popularity. Ever since the pandemic, people are turning more to home workouts.
The machine gives you a great lower-body workout alone with high-intensity workout modes perfect for people looking to increase their strength and stamina while losing weight.
The Max Trainer M8 is one of the best heavy-duty elliptical machines with impressive features and specs. The base requires a floor area of 78.2 cm wide and 122 cm long, while the machine’s height is about 165 cm.
It has 20 resistance levels with impressive ranges that effectively help burn calories and lose weight.
Bowflex has developed its app as well to aid users in various exercises. There are seven pre-programmed workouts, and it allows access to multiple fitness apps.
The machine has dual LED/LCD displays on its central part, making it more functional and visually appealing. You can choose workout options, such as duration or resistance levels, by touching the quick select buttons underneath the display.
The handles are cushioned and provide a comfortable grip for a smooth workout. It gives you an excellent upper-body workout, and there are two more handles that you can use for lower-body training. Some other features include a heart-rate monitor and a water bottle holder.
A magnetic tray keeps your device secure while you work out, and there is a USB charging port.
Pros
- 20 resistance levels
- Dual screen modes
- Bluetooth compatibility for tablets, fitness apps, and heart rate monitor
- Intense workout in a short period
Cons
- No cooling fan on the console
SOLE Fitness E35 – Premium Elliptical Machine
The SOLE Fitness E35 is a top-rated front-drive elliptical machine famous for its stability, durability, and comfortable design. It is perfect for people who prefer low-cardio but intense workout programs.
It uses magnetic resistance that gives a smooth gliding motion when you use the elliptical, so you have an excellent exercising experience.
The company consults physical therapists to discuss the best designs that help reduce pressure, promote correct alignment, and lessen discomfort in ankles, hips, and knees. Their research has led them to add three different angles for the pedals that support different types of bodies, sizes, arch heights, and gaits.
The frame of the SOLE Fitness E35 elliptical machine is made of steel, which adds to its overall stability. The flywheel weighs around 24 lbs, offering the proper resistance levels for a smooth workout.
Since it is a front-driven elliptical machine, the flywheel is located at the front. These heavy-duty elliptical trainers have an incline feature that places the user at a slight angle at the front of the machine, giving you the same feeling as when climbing a hill.
It has a maximum stride length of 20 inches (51 cm) and is suitable for people up to 6 feet (183 cm) tall.
The SOLE Fitness E35 is an excellent trainer for people looking for a premium and affordable machine that supports intense workout programs.
It has many training challenges for your exercise program, including ten workout programs and 20 resistance levels. Although it does not have a screen, it has a tablet holder so you can stream your workout on a tablet.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty on the frame
- Free shipping within the United States
- Bluetooth speakers
- Sturdy design
Cons
- The assembly process is time-consuming
- Basic monitor
- Poor customer service
HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT – Great for Upper Body Workout
The HCI Physio Step HXT is a recumbent semi-elliptical machine that supports full-body cardio for all ages. It is an affordable and compact trainer with a minimum stride length of eight inches and a heavy-duty steel frame that keeps it stable.
It has a step-through design with a low seat, and users will enjoy the benefits of rotating hand grips that allow easy hand positioning at any angle, adding to users’ comfort levels.
Since it is a cross trainer, the arm movement is shorter and does not strain the shoulders while giving an excellent upper body workout.
It is designed for light use in a commercial setup or at a home gym. It operates smoothly and quietly, so you can use it anywhere at home, even in the presence of other people.
The HCI Physio Step HXT has a maximum user weight capacity of 330 lbs and a user height range of 4″9′ to 6″2′ inches. There are 16 levels of varying resistance for your fitness journey.
This elliptical machine is perfect for rehabilitation when operated at a low speed, providing strong resistance levels that give a challenging workout.
It has a power-saving feature and turns off automatically if you do not use it for 5 minutes. It has an LCD that displays your workout information and helps track fitness goals, and built-in heart rate programs monitor heart activity.
Pros
- Step-through frame suitable for many types of users
- Rotatable grips
- Varying levels of resistance
- Compact design
Cons
- No tablet holder
Buying Guide for Best Ellipticals for Obese
Maximum Weight Capacity
Always check an elliptical machine’s user weight capacity and weight limit before purchasing. Choose a device that falls within your weight limit or has a high weight capacity. Otherwise, it is useless if its limit is below your weight.
That’s why it is vital to research various models and their weight capacities so you can make the best decision.
The weight capacity should have a decent margin to stay safe. For example, if you weigh 270 lbs, you should go for a model that supports weights up to 350 lbs instead of 300 lbs.
The elliptical machine may break if the weight limit is exceeded, so buying a high-weight capacity elliptical is better to avoid damaging it. Moreover, you will likely get a smoother experience, and the machine will perform better if it’s not under pressure.
There is no fixed-weight capacity elliptical machine, and it typically holds more weight than what’s mentioned on the label.
Flywheel Weight
The flywheel is an essential part of elliptical machines since it is responsible for handling the resistance you feel when you begin moving the pedals. A good flywheel gives a smooth workout and aids in losing weight.
Heavier people put greater pressure on the flywheel as compared to lighter people. The weight varies, ranging from approximately 10 to 40 lbs.
The weight depends on the type of workout programs you are following, your weight, and your exercise intensity. If you want a robust flywheel while staying on the safe side, choose an elliptical with a flywheel weight of at least 20 lbs.
Stability
Stability is directly linked with the machine’s weight and is an essential factor when purchasing an elliptical machine for obese people. An elliptical trainer’s weight gives you a good idea of its stability, and a heavier machine provides more stability.
Heavier people should choose a model that weighs more since it will give the best stability. While researching machines and their features, keep an eye out for the product’s overall weight.
The machine’s construction also affects its stability since a solid construction adds to its robustness and keeps it from shaking. The base’s design is the foundation and supports the entire structure of the machine.
Check the elliptical machine’s warranty period since it will indicate the machine’s stability and how solid it is.
Size
Generally, elliptical machines are 6 feet long and 2.5 feet wide, although the length varies for each machine. An elliptical trainer is more elevated than a treadmill, so your room’s height should be high enough that you do not bump your head on it. The step-up height is 5 to 15 inches above the floor, and the pedals reach up to 25 inches off the floor.
Intensity Levels
Elliptical trainers have varying levels of resistance that you can adjust for your workout session. Low resistance levels are easy to exercise and great for newbies, while higher resistance is more challenging.
The difficulty level of exercise will decrease or increase according to the resistance setting. Some elliptical machines have an adjustable incline also that makes the workout more challenging.
Connectivity
Best elliptical machines provide connectivity options such as connecting to the cloud, social networks, tracking workouts, and special exercise programs.
Some elliptical trainers have wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth, that connects to an app on a table or a mobile phone. There is an option for a USB port to connect your phone to shift workout data to a laptop.
Guided Full-body Workout
Some people prefer adjusting the resistance level themselves for their workout sessions. However, there are plenty of fitness tests and programs designed by experts for weight loss.
You can try exercises for the entire body that increase the heart rate and strengthen your overall body, or you can try low-intensity exercises.
The best heavy-duty ellipticals have built-in exercise programs with varying intensities on which users can challenge themselves. Other elliptical trainers have fitness apps that engage users during workouts and automatically adjust your exercise fitness levels and intensity.
Durability
When purchasing an elliptical trainer, the machine should be solid and durable to last longer. Moreover, choose a high-weight capacity elliptical with a greater weight limit that can support a heavy person.
The weight of the flywheel matters a lot since a heavier flywheel keeps the machine stable during exercise.
Invest in an elliptical that gives value for money and has a good lifespan. Choose a heavy flywheel that is about 20 pounds or more. Flywheels keep the machine in place so it will not rock about when you use it. Also, it would be best to check the weight capacity of the elliptical you have in mind.
While some cardio equipment is cheap, they are not as safe ot can even fully accommodate an adult – much less an obese one. Make sure the elliptical you plan to buy will not get damaged with extra weight.
Extra Features and Capabilities
A good elliptical trainer provides tech capabilities and conveniences for the user. You can choose from plenty of features, such as water bottle holders, HD touch screens, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, tablet/phone holders, cooling fans, transportation wheels, and more.
The price range increases as more features are added, but it will give you a smoother workout experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories get burned on an elliptical machine?
The calories burned in elliptical workouts depend on the user’s weight, intensity level, and workout duration. A study by Harvard says that exercising for 30 minutes on an elliptical machine will burn around 378 calories for a 185 lbs person, 324 calories for a 155 lbs person, and 270 calories for a 125 lbs person.
Is an elliptical good for cardio workouts?
An elliptical trainer is good for cardio since it targets your lungs and heart during each exercise routine. You can do low-impact exercise or high-intensity interval training. Both will increase your strength, stamina, and endurance.
What muscle groups do the elliptical machine work on?
Elliptical trainers work on various muscle groups, such as the glutes, hamstrings, chest, back, biceps, core muscles, and triceps. Elliptical machines are a good low-impact exercise alternative to running while still giving a full-body workout.
What are recumbent elliptical machines?
A recumbent cross trainer is a cross between a recumbent exercise bike and an elliptical trainer. This machine is very comfortable since it supports your back and works as an excellent personal trainer.
Instead of moving the pedals in a circular motion, the legs move in a linear motion, and the arms also get a good workout as you grip the handles. It is low-impact exercise equipment since you are seated during exercise.
These machines are top-rated for therapy and rehab since they give excellent cardio workout and improve strength.
What are the benefits of heavy-duty ellipticals?
An elliptical trainer is great for weight loss, and modern ellipticals are a piece of powerful exercise equipment. You can set up a home gym and use it for cardio, high-intensity interval training, and strengthening various muscles.
The machine’s incline is responsible for engaging various muscles, which you can adjust per your requirement. A higher angle focuses on the glutes and hamstrings, while a lower angle is suitable for your calves and quads.
The upright handles engage your upper body at the same time while you are exercising and target your shoulders, back, chest, and arms. It also provides stability while moving your legs since you have something to hold onto.
Is an elliptical good for losing weight?
Ellipticals provide an effective workout that helps you lose weight and strengthen your muscles. Establish an exercise routine, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle to get maximum benefits.
A heavy-duty elliptical machine gives an excellent full-body workout that works muscles in the upper and lower body at the same time.
Conclusion
An elliptical trainer is great for a heavy person looking to lose weight at home and strengthen the body. Best elliptical machines have a maximum weight capacity to support obese people without damage.
Purchasing a machine with greater user weight capacity is recommended so the device does not break down if the weight limit is crossed.
Heavy-duty ellipticals have a range of impressive features that make them functional and convenient for users.
This article discusses five top elliptical trainers, and the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT is our top choice. It offers a stable, smooth, low-impact workout with maximum weight capacities of up to 330 lbs. Other ellipticals, such as Bowflex, have an app that allows users to enjoy the benefits of programmed workouts.
High-weight capacity ellipticals target multiple muscle groups and improve the endurance and stamina of the body. These machines are suitable for people who have aching joints or want to build and strengthen their muscles.
Despite packing many features, these ellipticals are compact and allow users to perform a full-body workout in a small space. You can choose higher resistance levels if you want a more challenging and grueling workout.
A heavy-duty elliptical is excellent for people of all ages looking to improve their overall body strength, and you can purchase it at a reasonable price.