10 Best Ellipticals For Small Spaces – According To A Fitness Pro (2024)
Work out on your legs from anywhere with these user and space-friendly tools.
Hannah ShineAFA Certified Personal Trainer
Hannah Shine is a highly qualified and experienced personal trainer with 6 years of experience. She has a Diploma in Nutrition and a certification as a personal trainer from the Australian Fitness Academy. She is currently the health manage... more
shreya vishwanathanMSc
Experience: 4 yearsShreya is a commerce writer who is passionate about reviewing products related to fitness, health, and home. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenar... more
medha debIntegrated MA
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
aditi naskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is ... more
Image: Shutterstock
Workout from home while you work from home! If there’s anything that the recent pandemic has taught us, it is that not only can a sudden lockdown render your gym closed indefinitely, but crowded gyms can also be a hotbed for infections and viruses. There’s no reason for your fitness goals to go out the window just because you’re home-bound! One of the most versatile pieces of equipment to help tone and sculpt your entire body, the elliptical machine is one that scores high points when it comes to functionality and practicality in a neat, compact package.
The best elliptical for small spaces is one that is compact, portable, and allows you to workout both your upper and lower body efficiently. It ensures you crush your fitness goals and get into the best shape of your life without compromising on space or time. With a wide variety of different types of exercise machines available in the market, the choices are endless! Not sure where to start? Check out our pick of the 10 best ellipticals for small spaces in 2024 and get ready to flaunt those well-earned gains.
In This Article
What Is A Compact Elliptical?
As the name suggests, a compact elliptical is one which fits in easily in small and cramped spaces while allowing you to get a full body workout in the comfort of your home. They are the hottest new trend at a time when people find themselves homebound and itching to get back to their fitness regime. The ideal addition to any modern living space, a compact elliptical is an investment in your health that you won’t regret.
10 Best Ellipticals For Small Spaces To Improve Your Fitness
1. Best For Full-body Workout:Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Elliptical Machine
Crush your fitness goals and complete a full-body workout in the comfort of your home with this cute and functional elliptical machine which is ideal for small spaces. Featuring a compact design, this modern home essential allows you to engage both your upper and lower body while minimizing the impact on your joints. The extended stride and adjustable abdominal cushion add to its features, providing an effective upper-body workout that also benefits your lower body. A multipurpose digital display monitor, comfortable abdominal pad, and non-slip foot pedals make this adjustable stride elliptical an absolute joy to get your cardio in. Tailor your workout to your fitness level with the adjustable features, ensuring that this elliptical is suitable for users at various stages of their fitness journey. Easy to store in your closet or against the wall, you no longer have an excuse to not get this small elliptical home! Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this fantastic option along with the reviewer’s experience of using it.
Pros
- Easy-to-read multifunctional digital monitor
- Comfortable abdominal pad
- Non-slip foot pedals
- Full-motion arm exercisers
- Slim foldable design
Cons
- Some might find that this elliptical machine tends to squeak a bit when used.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 9,038 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
2. Best Portable Design:Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical Machine
Now you can get your cardio in while you’re finishing up your work presentation! This small elliptical machine for a small apartment fits under most desks and allows you to improve your lower body muscular endurance and blood circulation while you’re working from home. This magnetic resistance elliptical is ideal for the multitasking young woman who doesn’t like to compromise her health. This neat little machine features large textured foot pedals, an easy-to-use digital monitor, and 8 levels of adjustable resistance to get the most out of your challenging workout. You can use it under the office desk or even on your couch, and its quiet operation and magnetic resistance make it a smooth workout equipment. So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on this apartment-friendly elliptical for small spaces and start working on that summer bod! To understand the nuances of the product in detail, you can check out this review detailing a tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- 8-level adjustable resistance
- Compact, portable design
- Glide wheels and non-slip foot pedals
- Convenient digital monitor
Cons
- Some might find that this machine is a bit loud when used.
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 9,025 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best In Easy To Use:Body Rider Elliptical Machine And Stationary Bike
Here is an incredible 2-in-1 exercise machine that combines a small elliptical with a stationary bike for a compact powerhouse to meet all your fitness needs. An easy-to-use digital monitor displays essential information like distance covered, time, and speed so you can easily track your calories burned. This small, compact elliptical machine allows you to mix it up and choose between low-impact cardiovascular variations so that you don’t get bored with your workout. With its versatile features and functionality, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to diversify their exercise routine at home. So what are you waiting for? Hop on this incredible elliptical machine for home use and get ready to start toning! Check out this YouTube review detailing a reviewer’s experience with this product.
Pros
- 2-in-1 exercise machine
- Adjustable tension knob
- Fully adjustable seat
- Electronic console to track exercise
Cons
- Some might find this exercise machine a bit difficult to assemble.
4. Best Space-Saving Design:Schwinn Fitness Compact Elliptical Machine
Glide and stride the way to a healthier and fitter version of yourself with this compact elliptical for small spaces which is the ideal mix of functional and practical. This neat machine has a ton of cool features to keep you entertained while you log those steps. A streamlined console not only displays the distance covered and calories burnt, it also allows you to travel the globe with various destinations shown on the screen to help you track your miles. Padded handlebars with heart rate contact grips, a space-saving design, and a choice of 16 levels of variable resistance are just some of the reasons why this home exercise machine is a hot favorite. It also contains a product manual that details product care and other insider tips for maintenance. Check it out!
Pros
- Space-saving, ergonomic design
- Streamlined console with multiple features
- Padded handlebars with heart rate contact grips
- Convenient built-in media rack
Cons
- Some might find it a bit inconvenient that the console doesn’t have a backlight.
5. Best Lightweight Device:Body Power 2-In-1 Elliptical Machine And Stair Stepper
Ditch the expensive gym membership and save time by getting your daily sweat sesh in the comfort of your own space! Alternate between using an elliptical and a stepper with this 2-in-1 machine which is ergonomically designed to allow smooth movement while being gentle on the joints, allowing even high-intensity interval training. Lightweight and durable, this quiet elliptical offers 8 levels of resistance control and a straightforward LCD computer with a built-in media shelf. Compact and quiet, it is the ideal addition to your living room to incorporate a more active lifestyle without compromising on precious time and space. Reviewers on Amazon love this machine due to its sturdy build and quiet operation that allows for a good workout session.
Pros
- 2-in-1 elliptical and stair stepper
- Compact and durable design
- Straightforward LCD computer with built-in media shelf
- 8 levels of resistance control
Cons
- Some might find that this machine tends to be a bit unstable when used.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,340 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
6. Best Multi-Functional Option:DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Machine
Break free from your sedentary lifestyle and step up your fitness game with this convenient and small elliptical machine which fits right under your desk. Offering 8 resistance levels, this whisper-quiet small elliptical has extra-long pedals, allows bi-directional stride motion, and features an LCD screen which makes it easy to track your workouts. The ideal choice for active seniors, busy professionals, and those recovering from an injury, this portable elliptical machine definitely deserves a try if you’re looking for critical workout features!
Pros
- Customizable pedal height
- Bi-directional stride motion
- 8 resistance settings
- Functional LCD Screen
Cons
- Some might find the weight of this exercise machine a bit heavy.
7. Best Digital Monitor:EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer
Don’t let the bad weather outside be an excuse for you to skip your workout! Get all the advantages of running without the strain on your knees with this space-saving elliptical which can be set up anywhere in your home with its compact and portable design. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts, this elliptical with transport wheels comes packed with some cool features, which include a digital monitor to track your progress, built-in pulse rate sensors in the handlebars, large textured non-slip foot pads, adjustable resistance, and a convenient phone and tablet holder. Ensuring a quiet and efficient total body workout, this is the ideal addition to your fitness regime. They also offer a product user manual filled with insider tips and tricks that will make your purchase worth it.
Pros
- Conveniently-placed wheels for easy portability
- Textured non-slip foot pads
- Adjustable resistance
- Digital monitor for reliable tracking
Cons
- Some might find the assembly instructions of this elliptical trainer a bit difficult to understand.
8. Best Durable: Stamina InMotion Compact Strider Elliptical Pedal Exerciser
The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get in shape and stay active. This compact strider offers a low-impact, total-body workout that can be done anywhere. It has adjustable tension control so you can customize your workout intensity and an LCD monitor that tracks speed, distance, time, and calories burned. This strider provides effective cardiovascular exercise without putting stress on joints like running does which makes it a safe choice for those who suffer from joint pain or have limited mobility due to injury or advanced age. With its quiet operation, you won’t disturb others while working out even if they’re nearby in another room!
Pros
- Portable design
- Quiet
- Non-slip foot pedals
- Functional LCD screen
- Versatile
Cons
- None
Remember9. Best 3-In-1 Machine: YOSUDA Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine
Get your endorphins pumping with intense workout sessions on the Yosuda Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine. It combines full-body, low-impact motion with calorie-burning power similar to a treadmill to help you burn calories. This elliptical training machine comes with the latest mute systems and magnetic control to give you a smooth fitness experience. Its advanced LCD monitor displays your calories and distance for better tracking, and it has extra-large, non-slip foot pedals for a more stable feel.
Pros
- 3-in-1 machine
- Whisper-quiet magnetic drive system
- 16-level adjustable resistance
- Effective LCD monitor
- Best for daily use
Cons
- Some might find assembling of the parts a bit difficult
10. Best Non-slip Foot Pedals:Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
Build muscle and burn fat efficiently and get ready for swimsuit season with this small elliptical with non-slip pedals, the ideal accessory to turn any room in your house into an at-home gym. Ergonomically designed for fast results, this compact machine allows you to tone your arm muscles and sculpt those legs with the help of full motion arm exercisers, large non-slip foot pedals, and an easy-to-use computer display which ensures you meet your target. A convenient tension control knob allows you to adjust the resistance so that you get the most out of your workout without wasting any precious time.
Pros
- Full motion arm exercisers with non-slip handlebars
- Convenient transportation wheels
- Tension control knob to adjust resistance
- Ergonomic and versatile design
Cons
- Some might find that this machine tends to squeak a bit when used.
Now that we’ve had a look at our pick of the 10 best ellipticals for small spaces in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking the best machine for your fitness goals and personal transformation.
Now that we’ve had a look at our pick of the 10 best ellipticals for small spaces in 2024, let us look at some things to consider when picking the most excellent quality machine for your fitness goals and personal transformation.
What To Look For When Buying An Elliptical For Small Spaces
- Design
When it comes to furnishing your living space with an essential piece of exercise equipment, it is important to make sure that the design suits both you and your space. Pick a small elliptical which has a compact design and 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 elliptical which is ergonomically designed, functional, and gets you excited about elevating your fitness game.
- 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 the room of your choosing, this is a factor to consider when picking your fitness machine. It is best to pick a small elliptical which is lightweight, compact, and easy to assemble.
- Additional features
There is a wide range of additional features available in the market and it is best to pick an elliptical that has programmable settings so you can customize it to your needs. 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 monitor your heart rate for those who like to track 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.
Infographic: Benefits Of Using An Elliptical At Home
Ellipticals are a godsend! These machines are not only affordable but also ideal for home or office use. They offer numerous other benefits as compared to other forms of cardio exercise. Check out the infographic below to find out how using an elliptical machine at your home can make you a healthier person altogether.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Hannah Shine, personal trainer, says, “Ellipticals are a personal favorite due to their compact size and ability to provide a full-body, low-impact cardio workout without taking up too much room!” Ellipticals are great workout equipment, but unfortunately, they can take up a lot of space. Nowadays, there are elliptical machines available for at-home gyms with minimal spaces as well. It is a versatile piece of equipment that can sculpt your entire body. It offers high functionality, and elliptical machines for small spaces are compact and portable. The products mentioned above have unique features, come in a slim, foldable design, and have different levels of adjustable resistance and seats. The Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk offers a full-body workout with minimum impact on joints, while the Schwinn Fitness Compact saves space while providing a smooth workout. For those who want to do high-intensity interval workouts while being gentle on the joints then give the Body Power 2-In-1 Elliptical Machine And Stair Stepper a try. Transform your living space into an interactive workout zone without compromising floor space. Before starting any new exercise routine, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that it aligns with your individual health needs and goals. With these machines at your home, you can choose not to take expensive gym memberships and level up your fitness game. Consider the design, portability, additional features, and fitness needs while choosing the best ellipticals for small spaces. You can also take a look at the product reviews to gain more insights before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are small ellipticals worth it?
Absolutely! Small ellipticals allow you to meet your fitness needs without compromising on space or time. They are an essential addition to any modern living space and will help keep you fit and healthy when you are homebound.
Is a compact elliptical worth it?
A compact elliptical is a great investment in your health and will help you meet your fitness goals in the comfort of your home. They are a great idea for those who live in apartments and don’t want to waste precious real estate on bulky gym equipment.
How much space do you need for an elliptical?
This depends on the model you pick, but generally, small ellipticals are compact and have a foldable design which allows you to tuck them into any closet or corner of your room.
What muscles does a mini elliptical work?
An elliptical is a great way to get a full body cardiovascular workout In. It works all parts of the body and helps you tone your arms, sculpt your legs, and strengthen your core.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shreya Vishwanathan, the author of this article, is fitness and health enthusiast. She loves helping her readers find the right fitness products. She went on a hunt for the best ellipticals for small spaces. With the help of extensive research, she made a list of them to help her readers workout in the comfort of their home. The ellipticals are portable and help you do both upper and lower body workouts.
