Thinking about investing in an elliptical trainer but are unsure because you have limited space? Then you are the perfect candidate for an elliptical machine for small spaces. This means your plans to complete your home gym and recover from injuries such as plantar fasciitis shouldn’t be stopped just because of space issues. Instead, focus on compact machines like the elliptical machine for small spaces.
Ellipticals provide a great low-impact workout that can significantly benefit your recovery from heel pain. Small elliptical trainers come in handy when floor space is limited and there isn’t enough room for anything else. These compact ellipticals may not have as many features as their big sisters, but they sure are effective and compensate in other ways. A small elliptical is undoubtedly capable of helping you get a decent workout when you have no other options.
Ellipticals are undoubtedly great exercise equipment, but they take up a lot of space. Manufacturers, aware that not all home gym spaces can accommodate their size and weight requirements, responded with smaller options. These mini ellipticals have become quite popular and are favorites of those who prefer to get in shape using smaller spaces to workout machines instead.
As you can see, an elliptical machine for small spaces is quite convenient; if you can relate and are currently on the market for one, search no further. With many models and fitness terminology you may not understand, it may be a bit difficult to select one that meets your expectations. To help you in your hunt for a small elliptical, we’ve put together a short list of some of the best-rated options currently around. You can thank us later.
Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces Reviewed In This Guide
- Best Overall Elliptical Machine For Small Space: Stamina Inmotion Elliptical
- Best Seller on Amazon Elliptical Machine For Small Space: Patented 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine
- Best Affordable Elliptical Machine For Small Space: Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer Elliptical
- Best for Resistance Levels Elliptical Machine For Small Space: SCHWINN Fitness Compact Elliptical Machine
- Best Standing Portable Elliptical Machine For Small Space: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine
How To Choose The Perfect Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces?
You must consider a few key criteria to make an intelligent investment when in the market for an elliptical machine for small spaces. You want to keep in mind things like materials, durability, size, versatility, and of course, your budget.
A good quality elliptical for small spaces is compact, portable, and allows you to work out both your upper and lower body efficiently. It should ensure you achieve your fitness goals and get into the best shape of your life without compromising space or time.
Make sure you select a versatile piece of equipment that can sculpt your entire body. Despite their size, these mini ellipticals must offer high functionality.
Among the essential features, you need to consider is that we have a slim built, foldable design and different adjustable resistance levels and seats.
Bottom line, when choosing an elliptical machine for small spaces, analyze first where you want to place your equipment; you need to keep an eye for warranty information, stride length, and workouts customization.
Types Of Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Front Drive mini elliptical
Front drive ellipticals are the converse of reading drive ellipticals in nearly every way. This elliptical style places the flywheel in the front of the machine and roller tracks in the back.
The pedals on this style of the elliptical slide along these tracks and provide a slightly more vertical range of motion, whereas rear drive ellipticals offer a more horizontal range of motion.
Center Drive Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Center drive ellipticals as the most recent iteration of the generic elliptical format. In this format, the flywheel is typically located on either side of the pedals. Like front drive ellipticals, center drive ellipticals offer a more vertical range of motion.
Since center drive ellipticals place the flywheel parallel to the pedals, they are often more compact than front and rear drive models. It’s for this reason that this elliptical style is trendy for individuals with a home gym.
Glider Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Elliptical gliders are perhaps the least complex and most low-impact type of elliptical currently available. This elliptical does not typically have a flywheel, and the pedals operate on a swinging glider rather than a circular track.
Elliptical gliders also tend to be relatively compact since there is no bulky flywheel. This elliptical trainer provides an ideal machine for individuals seeking to build a home gym in a limited amount of space.
Magnetic Resistance Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
A small elliptical with magnetic resistance offers a consistent and natural feeling during a workout.
Fan-Wheel Resistance Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Fan wheel resistance offers a very smooth ride and is usually employed in relatively expensive or low-cost compact elliptical machines.
A good elliptical machine for small spaces will provide enough resistance to facilitate smooth motion. And remember, the smoother the exercise, the longer a person can exercise. Also, smooth resistance helps mitigate the risk of an injury.
Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces List
1. Stamina Inmotion mini elliptical
Pros
- Portable
- Adjustable Tension
- Smart Fitness App
- Sitting/Standing
Cons
- Squeaky
- Requires Assembly
The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider can be used sitting, standing, or pedaling in reverse motion, making it easy to get a convenient and versatile workout.
Exercise on the Stamina InMotion Compact Strider helps you burn calories, tone lower-body muscle, and improve your cardiovascular health, all in a joint-friendly manner.
What Our Testers Say
I’m not trying to advertise, but I am also a professional interior designer. I know that being in an office all day long can be monotonous, which is partially why I wanted to buy this item myself. Being at a desk all day also prevents me from getting the exercise I so desire. This definitely is worth the buy if you’re in the same boat! I would highly recommend it to my clients, as well!
Whether watching television, reading a book, or working out at the office, this compact strider can go wherever you go. The incredibly compact elliptical lets you conveniently work up a healthy sweat nearly anywhere.
Tips
If you are dealing with noise, apply clear slider tape where the rubber wheels glide across the metal. It’s clear, quick to use, and solves the problem. No more noise and we’re back in action.
2. Patented 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Pros
- Curve-Crank Technology
- 2-in-1
- Versatile
Cons
- Pricey
- Difficult Assembly
BST800 StepTrac on this small elliptical gives you the smoothness of a flywheel spin bike, combined with the easy strides of an elliptical and the power generated from a good stepper.
The addition of the perfectly proportioned integrated upper body handlebars completes the total body experience. Its compact, practical, space-saving design and efficient motion will help you get the most out of any exercise session.
As you step, the curved crank applies constant tension to the X and Y axes, delivering a dead-zone-free rotation. With a smooth operation and efficient motion, you can get the most out of your cardio workout equipment for home workouts.
What Our Testers Say
I am so happy that I bought this piece of equipment. It is everything I was hoping for. It is smooth, silent, and doesn’t take much space. I jump on it for a few minutes in the morning and then again while I’m watching the news in the evening. (better than watching the news just sitting on the couch!) I’ve only had it for about two weeks, but I can already feel a difference in my energy level and in my muscle tone.
The ergonomic crank allows you to easily and safely adjust the resistance level while still running for a complete indoor HIIT workout. It features an LCD screen that tracks and displays calories burned, time, speed, and distance.
Tips
This is the perfect home workout machine for anyone who wants to exercise in their home, apartment, or fitness room.
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Pros
- LCD Monitor
- 220 LB Max Weight
- 30-Inch Stride
Cons
- Doesn’t Offer Much Resistance
The non-slip pedals will help simulate a slow walk or work up to a full run while maintaining a continuous motion capability without interruption—a 30-inch stride length.
The air walker exercise machine targets muscles in your arms and your legs. When you maintain an upright posture on the machine, your abdominal muscles will work as stabilizing muscles, increasing your stability and endurance.
What Our Testers Say
At first, I was skeptical, and it felt awkward, but once you get the hang of it and build a good momentum after 7 minutes, you begin to sweat. I’m 5’4″ and found that my best full Stride was angling my knee a little outward but not too much, and that will ensure my knee won’t hit the metal bar.
At 20 minutes, you can feel your thighs and triceps putting in some work. I will enjoy using this machine, and when I don’t want it out, it’s easy to secure and shift into the smaller position and place in a closet. Love it.
Informative LCD monitor displays time, count, total count, calories, and scan. Step up your comfort with the adjustable abdominal pad. Move it up and down to ensure proper support and placement.
Tips
When not in use, fold the product and pedals up to 1/2 the length for easy storage.
4. SCHWINN Fitness Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Pros
- Steel
- Space Saving
- Water Holder
- Padded Handlebars
Cons
- Pricey
- Noisy
If workout space is a problem, The Schwinn 411 elliptical was built just for you. Featuring the benefits of a 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. Sixteen variable resistance levels allow you to dial the challenge up or down.
What Our Testers Say
I, too was skeptical but am glad I made the purchase. The 411 elliptical is as durable as any health club unit that costs 4 or 5 times more. I’ve been using mine for nearly six months (twice a day) and am extremely satisfied.
All connections have remained secure. The operation is smooth and quiet, and the unit is very stable. a small amount of silicone (that comes with the unit) added to the roller frames keeps it properly lubricated.
With this compact elliptical, you can move in your own space as it automatically adjusts to your speed. Discover a wide variety of route lengths with new destinations. You can additionally track distance, speed, pace, calories, time, and heart rate; and sync your data.
Tips
To fix squeaks coming from the wheels. There seems to be a graphite coating on the wheels. Remove this with 409 and a paper towel.
Then liberally coat the wheels (the parts that contact the railings) and the rails with furniture (the solid type) paste. I let the first coat dry and then applied another coat. Let it sit there.
5. Magnetic Standing Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Pros
- Advanced Monitor
- Handlebars
- Magnetic Resistance
Cons
- Pricey
- Small Stride
Achieve a versatile cardiovascular and lower body workout with this compact elliptical. Get toned hamstrings, glutes, quads, and calves in an ultra-convenient, space-saving, and lightweight elliptical exercise machine.
Step on the wide, textured footplates to maintain optimal stability. Manage your balance and posture using the handlebars for a regular workout session.
What Our Testers Say
It came assembled and ready to use. There is no noise, and it’s super easy to use. Just hop on, set your resistance, and get going. Overall, this product is well made and serves its purpose well. I’m happy with this excellent purchase! Definitely get your money’s worth!
Utilize the built-in digital monitor to track speed, time, distance, calories, and scan. 8 Levels of magnetic resistance provide precise control and customization of your workouts.
Compact, space-saving design can be stored away easily. Built-in top handle for easy portability.
Tips
The option to sit down while working out is also available. Use a balance cushion to prevent your butt from getting sore.
compact ellipticals Buying Guide
What Is A small elliptical?
This popular exercise machine is often compared to a stationary bike without a seat so that exercise is done in an upright position and has pedals that the user moves in an elliptical pattern, believed to minimize strain on the knee joints.
The elliptical trainer is an excellent tool to help strengthen your heart, your lungs, and various muscles while providing a solid workout.
The elliptical can help burn body fat, improve balance, and lessen the impact on your joints if you’re using it while recovering from an injury and taking a break from another activity, such as running.
As you may imagine, a small elliptical fits easily in small and cramped spaces while allowing you to get a full-body workout in the comfort of your home.
How Does A Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces Work?
Elliptical machines are equipped with handles that move with the lower body. This works out the arms, chest, and shoulders and causes the body to burn more calories.
Elliptical training works the lower and the upper body. It typically targets the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and anterior tibialis. You will feel your glutes and hamstrings when your thigh moves backward during the gliding motion.
Most elliptical machines also allow you to pedal in reverse, which strengthens different muscle groups in the lower legs. Your quadriceps get worked when your leg is moving forward.
An elliptical machine for small spaces usually has a front-drive rather than a rear one to take up less space and has wheels so you can easily move and store them when you’re not using them.
Features To Look For In An Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
Portability
Whether you like your electrical elliptical machine to be parked in one corner of your living room, or you’d like the freedom to wheel it to your chosen room, this is a factor to consider when picking your fitness machine.
It is best to pick a small elliptical that is lightweight, compact, and easy to assemble.
Size & Folding
Unlike treadmills that take a lot of space, elliptical machines are designed to take less space. Even more, they can be folded and stored in very small areas when not in use.
If you own an elliptical machine or haven’t used it before, you might assume it is difficult to fold and store. Well, the truth is that it is not.
Stride & Incline
Do you know that narrow foot spacing is part of a good, natural, healthy stride? You can easily identify this when walking across a room or in an open area. Your feet shouldn’t be separated by more than two inches when they move past each other.
Adjustable Stride can help you burn more calories and muscle toning, but an incline can help you do all these and many more.
Resistance
You aren’t going to lose those extra pounds as fast as you would love to if you spend 30 to 50 minutes on an elliptical machine that offers little or no resistance. To lose weight quickly, you have to exert yourself and make your workout more challenging.
Design
Pick a small elliptical with a compact design that can be easily tucked into any corner or closet, especially if you’re in a space crunch. An under-desk design works best for people who like to multitask and get their workout done while finishing up their presentation.
Don’t hesitate to try a few before picking an ergonomically designed, functional elliptical that gets you excited about elevating your fitness game.
Weight Capacity
Regardless of the model of elliptical machine you want to buy, you must check its weight capacity. Top-notch elliptical trainers have a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs weight capacity. Machines with higher maximum weight are usually very durable and sturdy.
Electronics
Exercise equipment is generally becoming increasingly connected to the cloud to provide access to a vast library of exercise programs, social networks, and track workouts. Most small elliptical machines can sync with mobile apps and have a built-in browser and wireless conductivity.
Workouts Customization
Most top-notch elliptical machines on the market support classic and interactive workouts. An interactive workout utilizes technologies like street view and Google maps to take you around part of the world while you are working out on your elliptical machine.
Also, some elliptical machines for small spaces come with built-in apps you can sync with a lot of mobile fitness apps.
Safety
If you have kids, don’t allow them to play with or close to the machine because they can easily get trapped or pinched in its moving parts. Another way to ensure safety is by employing safety features like- Software lockout and pedal arm safety pin.
Additional Features
A wide range of additional features is available in the market, and it is best to pick an elliptical with all the features you need. A digital display that shows data like distance covered, speed, and calories burnt is ideal for someone who likes to track their workout.
Some ellipticals come with grip sensors to help track your heart rate for those who like to monitor their cardiovascular health.
Non-slip foot pads, ergonomically designed handlebars, and a foldable design are all great features to consider when picking an elliptical to meet your fitness needs.
Common Questions About compact ellipticals
How much space do I need for an elliptical machine?
You can expect an elliptical machine to be between four and seven feet in length. You’ll also need to leave room for the pedals while you’re in motion. For some machines, these can extend a foot or so behind the main frame. You’ll also want to account for about 20 inches of free space on either side.
Is a mini elliptical a good workout?
Not only do portable elliptical machines reduce the impact on your lower body, but they can provide an excellent, sometimes better, overall cardio workout. An essential elliptical will help tone your calves, quads, and hamstrings while improving your cardiovascular performance.
Which is a better choice a treadmill or an elliptical machine?
A treadmill is probably a better tool to prepare you for running events. But even if running is your main aerobic fitness activity, cross-training with an elliptical machine or other low-impact exercise equipment can help keep you fresh and prevent overload injuries, including stress fractures.
Is a bike better than an elliptical?
When used at high intensity, a stationary bike burns slightly more calories than the elliptical, potentially making it a better choice for those trying to lose weight. The elliptical, however, helps strengthen both your upper and lower body.
Is a small elliptical good for seniors?
Today ellipticals have become the most popular low-impact trainers for boomers and adults of all ages. These machines let you accomplish cardio and strength training at once.
How do I prevent my floors from scratching under the elliptical machine?
You can do this by placing a foldable equipment mat on your floor.
What are the benefits of an elliptical trainer?
- Total body workout. Unlike most fitness equipment on the market designed to target one or two body parts, the elliptical machine gives you the freedom to work on your entire body simultaneously.
- Weight loss. An elliptical machine can help speed up your journey. Some studies conducted not too long ago show that one can burn 400+ calories in around thirty minutes in an elliptical machine.
- Easy to use. Setting up and using an elliptical trainer is very easy. It takes very little space, and some models can be used at home or the office.
- Customized workouts. An elliptical trainer can customize your workout to your taste and preferences. This means you can make your workout super intense or mild at the touch of a button.
Enjoy Your New Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
An elliptical machine for small spaces can help burn body fat, improve balance, and lessen the impact on your joints if you’re using it while recovering from an injury, including plantar fasciitis.
A small elliptical is certainly for you if you are trying to save space and get your workout done. After going through our top 5 rated options, we hope your hunting for an elliptical machine for small spaces gets much easier.
Feel free to send your messages with questions, suggestions, or comments you may have!
