Have you heard about elliptical cross-trainers? If you are looking to add an excellent, all-round exercise machine to your home gym – and one that will not leave you totally beat-up.exhausted after a workout – then allow me to introduce elliptical cross trainers to you and review top 3 best recumbent elliptical cross trainers.
Exercising is a must for staying fit. But the sore muscles that occur after a high-intensity workout is a real damper.
Are you wondering if there is a fitness machine that helps you achieve your health goals minus the aches?
Introducing the recumbent elliptical cross trainer…!
These wonder machines help to perform a complete body workout in a comfortable seated position while mimicking the action that happens during running.
You may be thinking:
What sets them apart from the other home gym equipment like exercise bikes?
Well, the difference lies in the pedaling motion.
Instead of pedaling as you would typically do on a bike, you push large pedals front and back with your feet when using a recumbent elliptical cross trainer. This, you will be doing sitting all-along.
The end result:
A low impact workout session that burns more calories by engaging different sets of muscles.
Recumbent Elliptical Cross Trainers offer an outstanding form of aerobic workout, at home, that can be carried out irrespective of weather outside. Cross trainer ellipticals also build arm and leg strength while along providing a low joint impacting training.
Need more convincing?
Remember how your regular home gym equipment often leaves you feeling exhausted and out of breath instead of making you feel rejuvenated and energized?
That negative feeling will disappear with a recumbent elliptical cross trainer!. Its natural stepping motion will let you exercise longer without any side effects.
Recumbent Elliptical Cross Trainers offer an outstanding form of aerobic workout, at home, that can be carried out irrespective of weather outside. Cross trainer ellipticals also build arm and leg strength while along providing a low joint impacting training.
Rest assured, if it so happens that you are going through some kind of physical therapy, cross trainers provide excellent cardio that is safe. These workouts will help you to recover gradually thus increasing your ability. Of course, you need to consult with your doctor before embarking on any exercise regime.
How to choose the best recumbent elliptical cross trainer?
While choosing a recumbent elliptical cross trainer there are a few features you must watch out for:
- Seat
They must be big and most definitely have a backrest. Seats with recline setting is an added benefit as it gives more options to customize your sitting position.
- Pedal Motion
The pedal motion can either be linear or circular. The linear motion is like the one achieved on a stepper, and the circular motion is similar to that on a regular exercise bike.
Linear motion is the preferred choice as it delivers a low impact workout session.
- Features
The features on a recumbent elliptical machine are directly proportional to the costs. They are not as advanced as the features found on other fitness equipment.
These machines have simple features like a digital console that displays time and distance. Some also have a pulse sensor to monitor the heart rate.
However, the must-have features to look out for are:
- Adjustable handlebars
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Durable frame
- Easy assembly and maintenance
- Weight capacity
Just like any other fitness machine, you must consider the maximum weight capacity of the recumbent elliptical cross trainer that you plan to buy. This is the weight of the user that the cross trainer can accommodate.
Keep in mind your weight and the weight of the other people who will be sharing the equipment.
It is better to choose a machine that has a higher weight capacity as this usually indicates more durability and strength.
How did we choose?
Our experts spent numerous hours testing and researching the most popular recumbent elliptical trainers available in the USA market. All of this effort has helped us choose the top 3 recumbent elliptical trainers that you can trust to deliver the desired results.
We have also taken into consideration the price and customer satisfaction ratings while coming up with the list.
So, let’s get started!
Teeter FreeStep recumbent cross trainer and elliptical
Teeter is a family-run business. Established in 1981 with a mission to build quality, safe, and innovative products, it helps people enjoy their lives without any back pain.
Roger Teeter, the founder of the organization, experienced years of debilitating back pain. Inspired by his personal experience, he launched inversion tables, designed with the sole intention of improving spine health.
The Teeter FreeStep recumbent cross trainer elliptical is one such product and is part of their “stabilization” series. It strengthens your muscles without causing any injuries while at the same time keeps you active and fit.
Main features of the product
The Teeter FreeStep redefines the experience of exercising in the comfort of your home with a zero impact, stress-free cardio, and power workout.
Designed to allow you to exercise without any intense pressure on your joints, the Teeter FreeStep brings a new and exciting way to train in your own home. This cross trainer recumbent goes beyond any traditional fitness equipment and ensures to deliver calorie-burning results also taking the load off your back and joints. Teeter achieves this with their patented stride technology.
Incorporating the dual power motion, it allows you, to naturally distribute the muscle effort throughout the body. If you get tired of exercising your legs, you can focus on your arms and vice-versa. This way, you can exercise for more extended periods. A more natural, comfortable total body workout. The more calories you burn, you faster you progress towards your fitness goals.
This recumbent cross trainer is made to last for a long time. It’s got a smooth and quiet ride, as I would prefer. Sturdy and comfortable as well. Assembly took 2 hours. Reasonable price and I feel worth every dollar
By John. S.
Below is descriptions of the main features of this cross trainer:
- Seat
The seat of the Teeter FreeStep is adjustable. One can adjust its height as well as the recline positions separately. This is useful for finding a fit that is most comfortable for you.
The seat offers 3 recline settings to choose. Additionally, one can adjust the height with the help of a spring-loaded knob.
It is very comfortable as it is larger than a traditional exercise bike seat. It can comfortably accommodate people between 4?11? ? 6?6? tall.
If you want to increase further comfortable levels, you should buy a padded seat cover.
- Pedal Motion
The FreeStep recumbent has a linear pedal motion. As a result, it puts considerably less stress on the lower body joints. The pedals are big enough to fit your shoes comfortably easily.
It has an ergonomic design and allows users to pedal in forward as well as reverse motion. This helps to maximize the workout session.
- Adjustable resistance
It has a quiet, magnetic resistance system. Users can adjust the intensity level from high to low by turning a dial placed near the seat. Users can choose from 8 distinct levels.
As one adjusts the knob, the magnetic brake moves farther or closer from the flywheel, increasing or decreasing the pedaling difficulty.
- Two sets of Handles
This recumbent feature 2 sets of handlebars- one fixed and one mobile. The fixed handlebars are attached to the seat, and the mobile handlebars are fixed to the pedal bars.
The fixed handlebars are behind the seat and have small grips. The grip fitted on the right handle has the resistance adjustment dial on it.
The mobile handlebars have curved grips with a dense layer of rubber foam. This provides maximum comfort to the users.
The length of each of the mobile handlebars is adjustable. Apart from that, users can choose to lock them in an inward or outward setting.
- Digital console
The FreeStep recumbent has a battery-operated digital LCD console that is useful for tracking workout stats like calories, distance, time, and speed.
The readings are available in MPH and miles only. It is not equipped with a pulse reading function. It is easy to use and requires 2 AA batteries.
The top part of the console has a small shelf that can hold your phone or tablet. The digital console does not have any USB ports.
- Assembly and maintenance
The assembly is pretty straight forward as it comes with a detailed and well-illustrated instruction manual. Additionally, most of the parts are pre-assembled.
The equipment is easy to maintain too. The internal parts do not need lubrication. It only requires a periodic inspection for loose bolts and parts.
- Patented Stride Technology
This is the most unique feature of the Teeter FreeStep recumbent cross trainer and elliptical. It is the only home-use stepper that is designed with patented commercial physical training equipment technology.
Simply put, it provides all the benefits of high-end commercial physiotherapy steppers but at a more affordable price range.
As a result of this technology, the legs can move in an upward and downward movement rather than the circular motion found in most exercise bikes.
Pros
- A durable frame which can accommodate users up to 300 lbs
- Transport wheels facilitate easy transportation
- Ideal for low impact exercise
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Does not have pre-set workout programs
- No online connectivity
To get a good idea about the various features and capabilities of the FreeStep recumbent, check this video (1).
If you are looking for a recumbent that has a fluid, smooth, and natural motion, then the Teeter FreeStep is an excellent choice for you. It helps to relieve pain in the knees, legs, feet, and hips without causing any stress or injuries.
Sunny health & fitness magnetic recumbent bike – SF-RB4708
Sunny Health and Fitness is a premier importer and distributor of high-quality fitness equipment ranging from cycle bikes to treadmills and everything in between. It has headquarters in Los Angeles (USA) and Xiamen (China). They source directly from the manufactures and are hence able to offer products at a more competitive price than others.
The Sunny SF-RB4708 is a no-frills recumbent exercise bike that puts affordability and simplicity over everything else. Even though it is compact and light, it has a solid built and manages to get the job done correctly.
This cross trainer magnetic recumbent bike allows to do a fully-body work and burn more calories. You will be moving the handlebars back and forth while pedaling at the same time. This, in turn, works out your arms, shoulders, and back.
The increased amount of effort during the entire movement burns more calories.
My doctor recommended this bike to me. I used to go health center to do my exercise, but I could not go everybody. Instead, I bought this recumbent. Very happy with the purchase. The price is very reasonable when compared to expensive alternatives such as Nu-steps. Satisfied.
Marc N.
Main features of the product
This recumbent exercise bike has a simple design that looks smart and will not be an eyesore in your home.
Some of the salient features of this equipment are:
- Seat and handlebars
This exercise bike has a contoured, cushioned seat with additional padding. This ensures that users do not experience the ‘falling asleep feeling’ after a vigorous and prolonged workout session. In addition, it helps to relieve pressure on the tail bone due to the continuous sitting position.
The seat has a durable synthetic upholstery. The backrest also has a thick layer of padding.
The recumbent has moveable handles that go back and forth while pedaling. You can not lock the handles. It will move along with the pedals at all times. Hence if you wish to exercise using only your arms, keep your feet firmly on the floor.
- Adjustable resistance
The SF-RB4708 has a manual magnetic resistance system that comprises of a magnetic pad connected to a lever via a steel wire. By adjusting the lever up and down, users can increase or decrease the resistance.
It has 8 levels of resistance, thereby allowing users with varying fitness levels to perform an effective and challenging workout.
- Step-through design
This convenient feature makes getting on the recumbent exercise bike very safe and secure. Due to the step-through design, one does not have to extend their legs over a high bar to sit on the exercise equipment.
Just step over the low bar, sit on the seat comfortably, and start pedaling.
- Pedals
Built using nylon material, the pedals of the Sunny SF-RB4708 are very durable. It has a weighted design and adjustable straps to ensure foot stability. It also has standard threads that make it easy to find a replacement if you ever need it.
Additionally, there is a narrow Q-Factor to ensure your foot is positioned onto the pedals comfortably, and there is no lateral stress induced on your knees.
- Digital Monitor
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4708 has a digital monitor screen for tracking your progress. It has a heart rate monitor that reads your heart rate precisely and allows you to exercise at the correct intensity to achieve the desired results. It also displays the distance and time.
The monitor is easy to use. It has a scan function that shows all the workout metrics for 6 seconds on display. One can switch off the scan function by pressing the mode button. The set button lets you set a value for calories, time, distance, and pulse. You can clear the values and set them to zero using the reset button.
- Pulse Sensor
The handlebars have EKG sensors installed in them to track your pulse. This is an excellent feature as measuring the pulse rate is an essential tool for exercising efficiently and correctly.
Information about your pulse rate will make you better aware of your fitness and health status.
- Patented Easy Seat Adjustments
The unique feature of the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4708 recumbent exercise bike is its patented easy seat adjustment technology.
With this feature’s help, users no longer have to get up from the machine to adjust the seat. Instead, they can easily adjust the position with the support of a handle placed at the side.
Pros
- Light recumbent bike
- A maximum user capacity of 350 lbs
- Easy to assemble and operate
- Minimum maintenance required
- Adjustable seat for users between 5?0? ? 6?5?
Cons
- No provision for bottle holder
- There are no armrests at the seat
If you wish to see this recumbent exercise bike in action, watch this video (2) now!
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4708 is a great entry-level model that is super low priced. It is an excellent choice for elderly users and people who need recovery training.
ProForm hybrid trainer
ProForm is a dominant player in the home fitness equipment market. Their product line consists of hybrid trainers, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and rowing machines. The company’s commitment to quality has made it a leading name in the industry.
The ProForm hybrid trainer is a piece of versatile fitness equipment that converts from a recumbent exercise bike into an elliptical trainer in a few minor adjustments. This feature lets users perform cross fitness training on one machine itself. It is Bluetooth enabled and compatible with iFit services.
Fantastic hybrid machine. I really like the fact this cross trainer is 2-in-1 exercise machine. I did not subscribe to iFIT and rather just use the machine and pre-set programs. It is compact for home use and the price is right.
Jasmin M.
Main features of the product
This 2-in-1 fitness machine is not only versatile but also durable, quiet, and affordable. Have a look at some of the most striking features of this product:
- Adjustable seat
ProForm understands that to have a fantastic workout session, it is essential to focus on the details. As a result, the hybrid trainer has a cushioned, adjustable seat to provide maximum comfort to the user.
The backrest has a vented structure. This helps to cool off during a high-intensity session. Additionally, the curved design of the backrest provides extra lumbar support and lines up your posture to avoid sore backs.
The seat has an adjustable rail with 17 adjustment positions. The seat’s upholstery consists of durable and waterproof vinyl material.
Users who are up to 6?3?-6?4? can stretch their legs completely when used as a recumbent bike.
- Long and Smooth Elliptical Strides
This hybrid trainer has 15? stride length, which allows users to steadily moved towards their fitness goal while enjoying full elliptical strides.
The elliptical strides accord a softer landing for your legs and a consistent path to tread on, reducing accidental missteps.
- Handlebars
The ProForm trainer has 3 sets of handlebars. The seat handlebars are directly fixed to the seat frame. They are not adjustable and have small grips.
The handlebars next to the digital console have EKG sensors to monitor the pulse when held by the user.
The mobile arms have more extended grip which makes it comfortable for users of all sizes. These are not lockable and will move along with the pedals.
- Adjustable pedals
The pedals can be adjusted in 2 positions- inclined and horizontal.
To use as a recumbent bike, lift the pedals, open the braces, place their ends inside the pedal arms, and finally lock them in an upright position.
If you want to use it as an elliptical, close the braces to rest on the metallic pedal arms.
The pedals have no suspension or articulation system. Although, it has a ribbed surface that provides good adherence. Also, the pedals are large enough to accommodate footwear of various sizes.
- Console
The battery-operated console features a LED-backlit LCD monitor. It has 3 display panels. It is capable of tracking speed, time, RPM, distance, calories, and pulse. It displays 3 parameters at a time.
The console has a tablet holder as well as a sound system that is compatible with a majority of smartphones, tablets, and MP3 players.
It has a prominent speaker at the bottom half of the console. Users can adjust the volume using the volume keys fitted on the console. An audio jack is also available on the right-hand side of the unit.
- iFit and Bluetooth enabled
This feature sets it apart from the rest as users can sync their IOS or Android devices to the iFit app and transfer their workout data into their iFit account.
As it supports Bluetooth connectivity, you can also use a wireless heart rate chest strap (not part of the kit)
to monitor your heart rate. Otherwise, use the EKG sensors fitted on the front handlebars to get the reading.
The iFit ready feature gives you instant access to 16 training programs – eight bike workouts and eight elliptical workouts.
A certified personal trainer specially designs each workout session.
Pros
- Sturdy construction- can accommodate up to 350 lbs of weight
- The magnetic resistance has16 distinctive levels
- Has a bottle holder
- Transport wheels for smooth movement
Cons
- The cost is not inclusive of iFit membership
- Adapter and batteries not part of the kit
Watch a demonstration (3) of the ProForm hybrid trainer to get a sneak peek of its various functionalities.
If you are not sure about the type of workout machine you want to own- a recumbent exercise bike or elliptical trainer- then this equipment is a perfect choice as it lets you have the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
Recumbent elliptical trainers have become quite a rage and for all the right reasons. Here is a quick summary of the 3 best recumbent elliptical cross trainer that we have discussed in the article.
The Teeter FreeStep
This elliptical, recumbent bike with patented stride technology has redefined recumbent exercises. The unique stepping motion allows you to exercise in a way that does not cause any soreness, stress, or joint pain.
It provides a full-body workout and expends more calories to get faster results.
The Sunny SF-RB4708
This recumbent cross trainer offers excellent value for the amount paid. Even though it is budget-friendly exercise equipment, it does pack a punch. Built with patented easy seat adjustment feature, the machine puts the comfort of its users first.
It isideal for medium to light intensity workouts, recovery training, and stamina development.
ProForm hybrid trainer
This recumbent elliptical trainer is a 2-in-1 heavy-duty fitness machine. It has a Bluetooth and iFit enabled console that has 16 workout programs designed by certified fitness trainers.
It is suitable for intense cardio training, muscle toning interval training, and weight loss. It is a versatile piece of equipment that is durable and operates without making any noise. It also has many customizable features.
We hope that our review has helped your zero in on your desired recumbent elliptical cross trainer. We wish you all the best as you set foot on your fitness journey and meet a better and fitter version of yourself!
Product links
1. Teeter FreeStep recumbent cross trainer and elliptical-https://www.amazon.com/Teeter-FreeStep-Recumbent-Trainer-Elliptical/dp/B07B6GLTDQ
- Sunny health & fitness magnetic recumbent bike – SF-RB4708- https://www.amazon.com/Sunny-Health-Fitness-Exercisers-Monitoring/dp/B072JHYQGC
- ProForm hybrid trainer- https://www.amazon.com/ProForm-PFEL03815K-Hybrid-Trainer/dp/B014IWD79G
Video links
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOU6f2Jsk4Q&feature=emb_logo
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=10&v=yLkdDLFonJ0&feature=emb_logo
