Ellipticals can be a great way to burn calories while minimizing the stress on your joints. It can help strengthen your lungs and heart. You can get a good lower and upper body workout with proper form.
If you search for an elliptical machine on Amazon, you get over 200 results. It would help to consider several factors when buying an elliptical for your home gym. These are the machine’s footprint, weight, functionality, maximum user weight, warranty, and more.
- The Teeter FreeStep LT3 offers full-body workout
- Enjoy a Feel-Easier exercise with less muscle fatigue
- Smooth dual motion engages both the upper and lower body
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How do you go about the selection process if you are looking for the best elliptical for a heavy person?
We have browsed through several elliptical machines, considered build quality, features, stride length, usability, and customer reviews, and tested a few to bring you our top recommendations.
5 Best Heavy Duty Elliptical for Heavy Person
You should always consider the weight recommendation for the elliptical for your safety. It’s because putting more weight on the machine can affect its performance. The machine may become unstable; you could fall and injure yourself.
The frame and footplates could get deformed if the machine is not built with durable materials.
We have compiled a list of five ellipticals that have good build quality and maximum weight capacities.
- Teeter FreeStep LT3 – Best Customer-Rated Elliptical
- Niceday Elliptical Machine – Best Budget-Friendly Elliptical
- Schwinn 430 Elliptical – Best Entry-Level Elliptical
- Sole E95 Elliptical – Best in Premium Ellipticals
- Nautilus E616 Elliptical – Best Feature-Rich Elliptical
1. Teeter FreeStep LT3 – Best Customer-Rated Elliptical
If you suffer from joint pain or are recovering from an injury, consider the FreeStep LT3 machine by Teeter. It offers a total body workout while being low-impact.
It has a long stride length, so it is best suited to taller users. It is one of the highest customer-rated ellipticals on Amazon.
Teeter offers printed materials, online videos, and assembly apps for a better user experience.
Here is how the Teeter FreeStep LT3 elliptical performs.
Design
The FreeStep LT3 is the most compact machine on this list. Its assembled dimensions are 55.25 x 38.0 x 52.5 inches. It weighs about 110 lbs. It has two transport wheels at the rear base, so you can move the machine around if needed.
It has a 15 lbs flywheel. It is equipped with a ComfortSelect Seat, typically thicker than standard seats. The seat has two mounting positions and is height adjustable.
It has a small display that shows time, distance, speed, and calories. Above the display, you can find a media rack good enough to hold your phone or tablet. It supports a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs.
Usability
The machine is easy to assemble. You can refer to the assembly manual, use the free BILT app, access 3D instructions, or refer to online videos. It might take 30 minutes to an hour for assembly.
You can use the machine as per the muscles you want to target. For example, you can power the FreeStep using only your legs, arms, or both for a balanced workout.
You have 13 levels of variable magnetic resistance to work with. Turn the resistance knob clockwise to increase and anti-clockwise to decrease the resistance. You can set the handles in an outward or inward direction and also adjust their height.
Features
The FreeStep is equipped with patented stride technology. The UltraGlide technology ensures that the machine makes the least while in operation.
The handles come with SureGrip rubberized grips that are sweat resistant. You can adjust the seat height and the backward seat position using the knobs available. The lower seat position can be adjusted, but you must remove and reassemble the bolts and washers.
You can download the TeeterMove app for workout programs. You can choose workouts according to fitness level or class duration. There are no subscription costs involved.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 55.25 x 38.0 x 52.5 inches |
| Weight | 110.2 lbs |
| Maximum User Weight | 300 lbs |
| Resistance Levels | 13 levels of variable magnetic resistance |
| Stride Length | Up to 59 inches |
| Workout Options | Free TeeterMove app |
| Display | Small console display |
| Cost | Starts from $999 |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- It has a small footprint.
- It can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs.
- The assembly process is easy and well-documented.
- Access workouts using the free TeeterMove app.
Cons
- Shorter users may find the long stride length uncomfortable.
- You would need an Allen wrench to adjust the lower seat position.
2. Niceday Elliptical Machine – Best Budget-Friendly Elliptical
If you want a budget-friendly addition to your home gym, consider the Niceday elliptical machine.
It supports a maximum user weight of 400 lbs. Such a high user weight limit is rare to find in budget ellipticals.
Here is how the Niceday elliptical performs.
Design
The elliptical is manufactured using quality steel. It has a relatively small footprint. It weighs about 106 lbs. With these specifications, you should be able to move the machine with the help of another person.
It has a 16 lbs flywheel. It offers 16 resistance levels. The foot pedals are textured for extra grip.
It has a stride length of up to 15.5 inches. Taller users, for example, those above 5’10”, may not be able to get a full range of motion.
It has a basic digital monitor showing time, distance, speed, calories, and pulse information.
Usability
The company advertises that the elliptical comes 90% pre-assembled. It’s true, but there are still parts you must put together, which can take about an hour. The instructions that come with the package, though, are pretty clear.
One of the best features of the elliptical is that you do not need electricity to power it. Only the display needs batteries.
You can adjust the resistance by turning the knob on the vertical frame.
Features
One of the recurring features we see in all reviews is that the machine is very quiet in its operation.
It has two transport wheels on the front base tube, which helps with portability.
The handles are equipped with pulse monitors. But these readings should only be taken as a reference because they are inaccurate.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 62 x 24.4 x 48 inches |
| Weight | 106 lbs |
| Maximum User Weight | 400 lbs |
| Resistance Levels | 16 magnetic resistance levels |
| Stride Length | 15.5 inches |
| Workout Options | No interactive programs are available |
| Display | Digital monitor |
| Cost | Starts from $499 |
| Warranty | Life-long service offered |
Pros
- It is a budget-friendly elliptical.
- It supports a maximum user weight of 400 lbs.
- You do not have to plug in the machine.
- The machine is whisper-quiet when in operation.
Cons
- No clear information is available on the warranty.
- The elliptical is not suitable for tall users.
3. Schwinn 430 Elliptical – Best Entry-Level Elliptical
Schwinn is a famous brand in the fitness space. It has over 50 years of experience designing home exercise equipment. The Schwinn 430 is one of their entry-level ellipticals.
It offers features like Precision Path foot motion technology, multiple resistance levels, incline options, and large cushioned foot plates.
Here is how the Schwinn 430 elliptical performs.
Design
The machine takes up much space compared to the Teeter and Niceday ellipticals. You will need a minimum workout area of 76.2 x 118.1 inches. It weighs about 169 lbs.
It has a 17 lbs flywheel. The 20 inches stride length with the Precision path technology aims to provide a more natural elliptical motion. Its large cushioned footplates are a plus.
It has two DualTrack LCD screens. The upper display shows data like workout programs and user profiles. The lower display shows workout details like time, distance, and speed.
Usability
It can take you up to two hours to assemble the 430 elliptical. The assembly instructions are clear and easy to follow but require a few steps.
You can choose to opt for an in-house assembly by Schwinn. The service costs about $250. It takes the cost of the entry-level elliptical to well above $1000.
The elliptical offers 22 workout programs. It includes nine profiles, eight heart rates, two user-defined, two fitness tests, and one quick start program.
Features
The elliptical offers up to two user profiles. You could add details like height, weight, and gender and set specific goals.
You can use two sets of handles, one fixed and one moving. You can choose to get a lower body or total body workout done.
There are heart rate monitors integrated into the handles. Again, these results should only be used as a reference, as the readings can be inaccurate.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 70.1 x 28.2 x 63.2 inches |
| Weight | 168.7 lbs |
| Maximum User Weight | 300 lbs |
| Resistance Levels | 20 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Stride Length | 20 inches Precision Path Stride |
| Workout Options | 22 workout programs |
| Display | DualTrack 2 LCD window system |
| Cost | Starts from $965 |
| Warranty | Frame - 10 years Parts - 2 years Electronics - 1 year Labor - 90 days |
Pros
- Schwinn offers a good warranty on the elliptical.
- It offers 20 levels of computer-controlled resistance.
- It includes 22 workout programs.
Cons
- The elliptical does not support Bluetooth connectivity.
- The in-house assembly costs an additional $250.
4. Sole E95 Elliptical – Best in Premium Ellipticals
If you want to invest in a high-quality elliptical for your home gym, consider the E95 model by Sole.
It supports a maximum user weight of 400 lbs. It can be an expensive elliptical, but Sole offers a lifetime warranty on the frame and flywheel.
Here is how the Sole E95 elliptical performs.
Design
The E95 takes up more space than the other ellipticals on this list. Its assembled dimensions are 83 x 34 x 70 inches. It weighs about 236 lbs. So it is not easily portable.
It has a 27 lbs flywheel. It’s a heavy flywheel that is a testament to the build quality of the elliptical.
The 2020 model E95 comes with a 10.1 screen size. It offers 20 resistance levels. The ramp angle can also be adjusted to up to 20 incline levels.
Sole has released an upgraded version of the E95 that has a better screen, WiFi connectivity, and screen mirroring. But the elliptical costs well above $2000.
Usability
It would be best to start assembling the elliptical in the room you intend to use it in. The assembly instructions need to be more descriptive.
It can take up to a minimum of two hours to put together the machine. I have come across reviews wherein users have taken up to five hours for assembly. I would recommend watching some YouTube videos for additional help.
In terms of usability, the elliptical functions in both forward and reverse motion. You can use preset programs like fat burn, cardio, strength, or HIIT. You can play music using the built-in speakers to stay motivated while working out.
Features
The elliptical supports Bluetooth connectivity. So you can sync your workout details with the Sole+ app. The app lets you access your in-depth history and track your workout details.
You can control the resistance and incline of the elliptical through the integrated buttons on the handle. It is a thoughtful design that improves user experience.
The elliptical is quite heavy but offers a fluid motion and is pretty quiet during operation.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 83 x 34 x 70 inches |
| Weight | 236 lbs |
| Maximum User Weight | 400 lbs |
| Resistance Levels | 20 resistance levels |
| Stride Length | 20 inches |
| Workout Options | Preset programs available |
| Display | 10.1 touchscreen |
| Cost | Starts from $1499.99 |
| Warranty | Frame - Lifetime Flywheel - Lifetime Electronics/Parts - 3 years Labor - 1 year Cosmetic - 90 days |
Pros
- It has a 27 lbs flywheel.
- It supports a maximum user weight of 400 lbs.
- Resistance and incline controls are integrated into the handles.
- Sole offers a good warranty on the elliptical.
Cons
- The elliptical can be expensive.
- The preset workout programs are limited.
5. Nautilus E616 Elliptical – Best Feature-Rich Elliptical
If we look at factors like resistance levels, preset workout programs, app compatibility, and warranty, the Nautilus E616 is a good option, especially considering its price point.
The elliptical supports a maximum user weight of 300 lbs.
Here is how the Nautilus E616 elliptical performs.
Design
Footprint-wise, the elliptical takes up a decent amount of space. Its dimensions are 70 x 28 x 71 inches. It weighs about 173 lbs. So it would help if you were careful when moving the machine around.
It has 20 inches dual stride rails that offer a natural elliptical motion and helps provide stability. The machine works for taller users as well.
It has a 22 lbs flywheel which is good for a home gym elliptical. The machine, though, can start making a creaky noise over time.
Usability
Nautilus offers a product manual with a parts list, instructions, and illustrations. The assembly instructions are clear, but putting the elliptical together can take up to an hour or two.
If assembly seems like a hassle, you can get the in-house assembly service by Nautilus. You will have to pay an additional $249 for the service.
You can create up to four unique user profiles on the elliptical. You can store your preferred workout values and track your progress.
You have 25 resistance levels to choose from and also six incline levels for the added challenge.
Features
The E616 offers 29 workout programs-the most by any elliptical on this list. It includes 12 profiles, nine heart rate control, four custom, two fitness tests, one recovery, and one quick start program.
As the elliptical is Bluetooth-enabled, you can use it with apps like Explore the World app. The app lets you run through different locations around the world. But the app performance is decent at best.
I like that you can use the elliptical with other fitness apps like MyFitnessPal.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 70 x 28 x 71 inches |
| Weight | 173.3 lbs |
| Maximum User Weight | 300 lbs |
| Resistance Levels | 25 resistance levels |
| Stride Length | 20 inches |
| Workout Options | 29 programsSyncs with Explore the World app |
| Display | DualTrack LCDs |
| Cost | Starts from $699 |
| Warranty | Frame - 10 years Parts and Electronics - 3 years Labor - 1 year |
Pros
- It offers up to 25 resistance levels.
- It offers 29 workout programs.
- It syncs with the free Explore the World app.
- It has DualTrack LCDs with a blue backlight.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with Nautilus’s customer service.
- The console tracking calories and RPM isn’t very accurate.
How We Picked and Tested the Heavy-Duty Elliptical?
Our search for the best elliptical for a heavy person began with online research. We browsed through several home gym equipment, Amazon, Walmart, and other review websites to identify the best ellipticals.
We paid particular attention to the build quality, maximum weight limit, durability of the product, and customer reviews. The shortlisted ellipticals were tested to gauge the user experience.
Key-Decision Making Factors
Here are some factors we considered while putting the above list of recommended ellipticals.
1. Build Quality
The elliptical can have a higher weight capacity, but it should have the design and warranty to back it up. The ellipticals we chose are designed using quality materials and offer good warranties.
2. Assembly
In most cases, the assembly can take a couple of hours. But there is documentation and videos available for your help. If the assembly is too complex, you can get it assembled by a professional.
3. Features
Here, we looked at factors like the flywheel weight, resistance, and incline levels, console design, workout options, app compatibility, and accessories.
4. Cost
Most of the ellipticals mentioned are below the $1000 mark. The only premium product included is one from Sole, which delivers value for money.
FAQ’s
An elliptical offers low-impact workouts for those who experience joint pain and stiffness. The motion helps reduce stress on the hips and knees. But ensure you maintain proper form to avoid unnecessary pressure on your knees.
Yes and no. Using the elliptical and maintaining a good diet and sleep routine can help you lose belly fat and weight overall. But losing stubborn belly fat can be challenging if you only use the elliptical and ignore other health aspects.
A 30-minute session helps you burn around 270 – 378 calories depending on your BMI, age, and health. If you want to lose weight, aim for a high-intensity 25-minute session three times weekly or a moderate-intensity 30-minute session five times weekly. Please consult your physician for the best recommendation.
Summary
When buying an elliptical, you must consider the footprint, workout area, design, assembly, usability, features, noise level, cost, and warranty.
To remove the guesswork from your purchase decision, we have compiled a list of ellipticals considering the above factors.
If you are on a budget, then the Nautilus E616 and Niceday elliptical are good options. If you are looking for low-impact workouts, pick the one from Teeter. Schwinn 430 is a basic, user-friendly model. If you want a heavy-duty elliptical, opt for Sole.
We hope our list of the best elliptical for a heavy person helps you find the suitable machine for your home gym.