These days people seem to spend a lot of money on health care equipment, especially people who want to lose their weight and fat in a proper way. Many people do exercise and gym to keep fit but for overweight people they better work out on an elliptical to get back into shape quickly.
If you are a heavy person, make sure to choose an elliptical that is well suited for your weight, otherwise it’s a costly investment. The very first feature you have to check carefully is, of course, the elliptical’s maximum weight capacity. Apart from this main key, you also have to notice the flywheel, the weight/size of the whole machine and parts, the number of resistance levels, and so on for stable and long-lasting use which suits your weight. There are many brands advertised their machine as the best heavy duty elliptical on the market, but in this list, we have limited to 6 options to make it easier for you to choose from. Before going to our review, learn more about using an elliptical machine.
How To Use An Elliptical Trainer
We are showing you how to use an elliptical trainer right now. It is not as easy as riding a bike or exercising on a treadmill, but it is also not way too hard to learn how to use it.
To begin your workout, the first step is to step onto the machine, grab the handles and try to start the elliptical by your force. Some ellipticals go with a provided console, in that case you can make use of it. Or else, pressing down your legs to push the machine is an alternative.
From the get-go, using an elliptical may be a little confusing but you will get used to it right after. When you reach the good speed, keep pace of it and just increase it after to try heavier workout if you’d like.
You can adjust yourselves when working out to exercise at the wanted level. Don’t forget to take advantage of the console to keep track of your time and progress. Or else, change it into a fitness app on your technological devices.
Top 6 Best Heavy Duty Elliptical Reviews
PRODUCTS | MODEL | FEATURES | CHECK PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
Schwinn 470 Compact Elliptical Machine |
| Check Price | |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer |
| Check Price | |
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine |
| Check Price | |
Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine |
| Check Price | |
ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical |
| Check Price | |
Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer |
| Check Price |
Below are detailed reviews of these best heavy duty elliptical
1Schwinn 470 Compact Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance: 25 Levels
- Number of Programs: 29
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Display: 2 DualTrack LCD displays
- Speakers: Included
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Weight: 189 lbs
- Warranty: 10 years frame, 2 years mechanical parts, 1 year electronics and 90 days labor
Thanks to the fact that it has prominent features such as Bluetooth connectivity and maximum user weight is 300 lbs, the Schwinn 470 become a popular compact elliptical machine shown up on many reviews and articles for heavy users. The 20-inch stride length is also a plus for big guys. It is also one of the best ellipticals under $1000.
In terms of convenience, 2 large backlit LCDs, speakers with an MP3 input port, USB charging, and a built-in fan will make your workout more comfortable and high-tech. By connecting through Bluetooth you can sync your mobile devices with tons of fitness apps to track and monitor your workout data. This model has 10-degree motorized incline control and 25 automated resistance levels which can be changed by the console.
In addition, the Schwinn 470 provides 29 workout programs including 12 profile, 9 heart rate control, 4 custom, 2 fitness test, 1 quick start with weighted flywheel and large cushioned pedals made of high quality heavy duty materials. These are some reasons why it can be considered as one of the best heavy duty ellipticals.
With the almost $900 price tag, this trainer is definitely a must-have item for overweight trainees. But just for your awareness, a few users’ feedbacks mentioned it clicking noise during their workout after a long time they bought and used this product.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity connects with fitness apps to track your progress
- It is an extremely durable elliptical 300 lb weight capacity
- 10-degree motorized incline
- More workout programs and resistance levels compared to others in mid-tier
- Heavy flywheel
- Long stride (20’’)
Cons
- Squeaking
ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- Resistance: 16 Levels
- Programs: 16
- Stride Length: 15 inches
- Display: Large LCD
- Speakers: Included
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Weight: 116.8 lbs
- Warranty: 5-Year Frame; 90-Day Parts and Labor
As you can see from its name, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer is a combination of a normal elliptical and a recumbent bike. This trainer is the one and only option in this list that allows you to work out while sitting or standing. You can take advantage of the inertia enhanced flywheel, 15-inch elliptical stride, and the oversized cushioned pedals for both functions in one exercise.
Although paying ⅓ the price of the Schwinn 470, you still experience a convenient and comfortable workout. A large LCD window displays your data and helps you control it while the dual 2″ speakers deliver an onboard sound system making fitness time more fun. The soft hand grips support upper body workout and transport wheels make the equipment easy to move around your house. But the console features are kind of basic compared to other expensive ones. It also provides less built-in programs and digital resistance levels than those of mid-class and high-class but in our opinion, 16 programs and 16 levels of resistance totally can bring to you a wide range of intensity while working out.
The SMR shorted for Silent Magnetic Resistance delivers a smooth workout that reduces noise and stress on your joints. This model also has grip sensors called EKG grip pulse which can estimate your heart rate quickly when exercising.
Pros
- Low-cost
- Dual functionality for cross-training
- EKG Grip Pulse Sensors controls heart rate
- SMR reduces noise and stress on joints and backs
- It is an elliptical 350 lb weight capacity that is loved by many heavy people.
Cons
- Manually adjust incline
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance: 20 levels
- Programs: 22
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Display: 2 DualTrack LCD
- Speakers, Charging USB port : Included
- Bluetooth: No
- Weight: 207 lbs
- Warranty: 10-Year Frame, 1-Year Parts and Labor
This model is in the same series with the Schwinn 470 but it is cheaper and still offers some great features including performance tracking, long stride, cushioned footplates, and console speakers in common.
Although it doesn’t provide Bluetooth connectivity which can connect to the Schwinn Trainer App, Schwinn 430 brings Goal Track to help users set their own goals by tracking time, distance and calories along with the Contact Heart rate sensor that allows users to estimate and control their pulse. Schwinn 430 also has the same size of Precision Path stride and cushioned footplates contributing to comfortable and natural running motion, especially for heavy users. Moreover, the high inertia drive system delivers a smooth start and quiet operation.
You can follow 22 workout programs consisting of 9 profile, 8 heart rate control, 2 fitness test, 1 quick start via 2 Dual track LCD displays and also track your exercise goals through them, too. The wide range of intensity workouts is proved with 20 controlled resistance levels. For your convenience, this machine provides MP3 input to plug your music in, media shelf to put your mobile devices on, USB port to charge them, and console speakers to chill with some music while exercising. Additionally, you have up to 6 different incline options by adjusting the ramp manually, not automatically like the 470 because, as you know, everything comes at a price.
Pros
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Goal Track technology tracks time, distance and calories
- Contact sensor for heart rate control
- Long Precision Path stride delivers a natural running motion for heavy person
- Up to 6 different incline options
Cons
- Unfoldable
Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
- Resistance: 20 Levels
- Programs: 10
- Stride Length: 20-22 inches
- Display: 7.5-inch LCD
- Speakers, Cooling fans: Included
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Weight: 215 lbs
- Warranty: Lifetime frame; 5 years electronics and parts; 2 years labor
The fancy Sole E35 elliptical comes with many prominent features that make it one of the best heavy duty ellipticals. The console includes a cooling fan, water bottle holder for your convenience. Backlit LCD display and speakers allow you to entertain comfortably while doing exercise.
The ramp angle easily changed from 0 to 30 degrees with the touch of a button can make you sweat it out while exercising your lower body. This power incline, combined with 20 levels of resistance and a 25-pound flywheel will deliver smooth and challenging workout with high intensity for overweight people. Another impressive feature is the stride length. It can be expanded up to 22 inches to fit extremely tall users.
The oversized pedals are designed with a 2-degree inward slope that can reduce strain on your joints effectively, especially on knees and ankles. There are 4 rear wheels on heavy-duty rails for reducing instability and side-to-side foot motion.
The handheld is equipped with advanced pulse sensors and a chest strap for monitoring your heart rate. In terms of warranty, Sole E35 is protected within a lifetime for its frame, 5 years for electronics and parts, and 2 years for labor.
Pros
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Pulse grip and chest strap heart rate monitoring
- Heavy aluminum flywheel
- Longest stride in this list
- Incline can be adjusted from 0 to 30 degrees automatically
- Pedals with a 2-degree inward slope reducing strain
Cons
- Quite expensive
ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance: 18 Levels
- Programs: 18
- Stride Length: 19″ adjustable
- Display: 5 inches backlit display
- Speakers: Included
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Weight: 207 lbs
- Warranty: 10 Year Frame, 1 Year Parts and Labor
Another ProForm has shown up in this list – the PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E model. It has front-drive design and front-mounted transport wheels for compact and convenient storage. The adjustable leveling feet and 19-inch stride length are a plus for people who consider this machine for their indoor training.
This PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E provides 18 preset workout programs but if you find it not enough you can plug your phone or tablet in the media port and put it on the tablet holder to follow the iFit Coach workout. The iFit allows you to easily access data of mileage, speed, calorie burn, and time throughout your workout but requires a credit card subscription. You can also track your heart rate automatically through the built-in EKG grip pulse sensors integrated on the soft grips handles and use heart rate training to reach your goals.
If you want to challenge your workout, choose the intensity among 18 different resistance levels. You can also adjust five different positions of the incline from 0-20 degrees to focus on specific muscle groups. The ramp angle is not motorized, you have to do it manually, but with a quick manual adjustment.
The ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E has inertia enhanced flywheel but its 15-pound weight is a little uncomfortable for extremely heavy people. In our opinion, 15 lbs are enough for most users, honestly.
Pros
- Weight capacity up to 300 lbs
- EKG heart rate monitor
- iFit ready helping users access detailed data and online courses
- The incline has 5 different positions to focus on different body parts
- Long warranty
Cons
- No built-in cooling fan
Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- Resistance: 25 Levels
- Programs: 29
- Stride Length: 22″ adjustable
- Display: 2 large adjustable backlit LCD
- Speakers: Included
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Weight: 231 lbs
- Warranty: 15 years frame/motor, 5 years frame, 2 years parts
The list of best heavy duty ellipticals ends up with model E618 from Nautilus brand. Via advanced Bluetooth connectivity, users can set and monitor their training process with popular fitness apps such as Explore the World, MyFitnessPal, UA Record, and so on. The Bluetooth connectivity also syncs this machine with Run Social App for better running exercises. In these fitness apps, there are some free courses, but others require subscriptions.
The Nautilus E618 features 2 large adjustable backlit LCD screens display with 29 customizable workout programs. The console helps to avoid dazzling and provides a better view to users. The contact pulse grips and telemetry enabled with chest straps support controlling and monitoring your heart rate during training.
Moreover, this machine is equipped with a heavy 30 lb effective flywheel that delivers high speed and supports 350-pound maximum user weight. You are also provided a wide range of intensity with 25 resistance levels which are non-friction and quiet. These features together with the cushioned pedals create extremely smooth and comfortable striding, especially for heavyweight people.
For your lower body, this model has a 22″ stride length that fits a variety size of users. If you are not only heavy but also tall with long legs and foot you will be satisfied with this elliptical’s longest stride length (among this list). Besides, the Nautilus E618 model offers motorized incline which allows you to adjust the degree from 0 to 15 by pressing a button. You may not be impressed by this feature when comparing it to that of other trainers mentioned above.
Pros
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Bluetooth connectivity & blue backlit LCDs
- Power motorized incline
- Longest stride in this list
- More workout programs and resistance levels compared to others in mid-class
- Heavy flywheel supports overweight people
Cons
- Unfoldable
The Benefits of Using an Elliptical Trainer
If you usually go to the gym, you will know the elliptical machines are nothing but popular there. Though they are not as popular as treadmills or stationary bikes, they are much safer than those things since people who had prior injuries can use the ellipticals in their workout routine. Read on to be clear about 12 benefits of using an elliptical and find out the motivation for your everyday workout.
Aid Weight Loss
People who head for weight loss will find an elliptical extremely helpful since it can burn up to 400 calories within 30 minutes only. If you are working on one of the best heavy-duty ellipticals with physical exertion, this number might be greater. In case you use the elliptical for cardio, it might burn fewer calories. Therefore, you should continue to work on some other exercises afterward to burn out fat.
Strengthening Weak Leg Muscles
People usually think of running or jogging when they want to strengthen their leg muscles. Though it is partially right, these activities, however, ignore your glutes (butt muscles) and your outer hip muscles, hence make them weaker than the rest of your legs. Nonetheless, the ellipticals can help you train equally every part of your legs. It even focuses on the hamstrings and quadriceps far more than go jogging, cycling or training on a treadmill. With its pedal, you can push the pedal both forward and backward. And backward is believed to train the hamstrings better.
Improves Blood Circulation
Elliptical trainer workout does wonder for our blood circulation as well. Therefore, it helps keep the oxygen flow to all parts of the body stable. It also strengthens our immune system, hence avoids different diseased and chronic sicknesses. Good blood circulation makes us healthy and look healthy by beautifying us from the inside to the outside. Specifically, our organs would be kept healthy. Our sleep quality is increased, thus our skin looks smoother.
Full Body Workout
With an elliptical machine, you can do full-body exercises. When you are pedaling, both your legs and your hip need moving to burn calories. At the same time, your arms are also busy with pushing and pulling the levers. This movement can also have a positive effect on your shoulders. Of course, you can totally keep off the handrails. If so, your lower body will be focused. In case you still want to work out the whole body, you can pump your arms forward then backward like when you are running.
Prevent injuries and exercise safely
The first time you go to the gym, you may get overwhelmed with all the types of equipment there. Some machines are too hard to use too and if you are not careful, they are likely to cause you injury. However, the elliptical is very easy to use. With its simple design, it wouldn’t take your time to become a proficient user. Moreover, cross trainers are among the safest equipment in a gym. Using them, you don’t need to worry about falling off like when using a treadmill. One more thing, the ellipticals are designed to assist people who have prior injuries but still want to work out. They really do help, especially with their foam rollers.
Elliptical Trainers Are Compact And Convenient
If you are finding personal workout equipment or you don’t want to go to the gym then the elliptical trainers may be a good choice. You can put it anywhere in your house because it does not take up much space. Ellipticals are extremely compact. You can put them in your basement, your living room or your bedroom.
Besides, ellipticals are also very convenient. If your main purpose is to get weight loss, just simply purchase an elliptical. It would help you achieve your goal. You can be comfortable to work out at home whenever you want and ellipticals also train your whole body.
>> Related Post: Best Elliptical Under $500
Conclusion
Keeping your body in fit is hard but slimming it down into shape is more difficult and requires a lot of motivation. Compared to other simple outdoor activities, a heavy duty elliptical is better for calorie burning. Therefore it’s important to invest in a higher weight and more professional equipment to help you work out better at home.
We have come to the end of our review and we hope you have decided which is the best heavy duty elliptical for yourself. Each has its own perks, you have to consider the pros and cons to find out the one that meets your specific needs.