An elliptical is one of the best low-impact cardio equipment, and using it can be less stressful on your knees, hips, and back than is running on a treadmill.
Undoubtedly, the treadmill and the elliptical trainer are the two best cardio machines, but figuring out which is best for you is quite an enduring task.
Both of them give you the feel of a natural walking or running experience, and hence, it isn’t wrong to say that both the treadmill and the elliptical trainer are safe and offer effective workouts when used options correctly for those with bad knees.
However, unlike cushioning treadmills, some elliptical machines come with movable upper body handles, which can lower your joint impact and allow you to exercise both your upper and lower body. (For safety concerns, there are treadmills equipped with long handrails, but these treadmills are primarily designed for seniors)
Choosing the right elliptical trainer and using this equipment in the right way helps you strengthen your bones and muscles, thereby keeping your knees strong.
To reap maximum benefits, it is recommended that you get the doctor’s approval for working out on an elliptical and select a good piece of equipment wisely based on the key features to protect your knees.
In a hurry? For those who want to navigate directly to the list of the best ellipticals for bad knees, here you go:
- Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
- Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine
- Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series Elliptical
- Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical
- Teeter Free Step Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
- NordicTrack C 7.5 Elliptical
- Xterra FS3.5 Elliptical Machine
See the overview, pros & cons below.
Table of Contents
What to Consider When Buying a Low-Impact Elliptical for Bad Knees?
The most important factors to consider while buying a low-impact elliptical for bad knees include size, intensity, ergonomics, and programs.
Size: In general, elliptical trainers measure 6 feet in length and 2.5 feet in width. Bigger models might measure from 50 to 84 inches in length. The larger the elliptical, the more elevated the machine is, and the more extended its pedals are.
Intensity: I recommend that you start slowly and gradually increase your intensity on the elliptical if you suffer from bad knees. So, any machine that has varied resistance options would meet your requirements.
Ergonomics: Posture is a vital criterion, and hence, choose an elliptical that helps you stay in an upright position as this keeps your body comfortable. Some machines force you to tilt forward to reach the pedals, and it is recommended to avoid them.
Programs: For many, versatility is the biggest motivating factor to exercise, and for this, you must choose a machine with different built-in user programs. Different programs help you track your goal, choose new workouts, and bring in intensity, thereby breaking the monotony.
Top 7 Best Ellipticals for Bad Knees
Given below are the top 6 best ellipticals that protect your knees.
#1. Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
From a well-known brand for its extensive range of fitness equipment, including ellipticals, the Schwinn 470 model is the latest innovation by this manufacturer, comprised of exemplary features, functions, and the latest technology.
Discussing the machine’s durability, you can guarantee long-lastingness given its two integrated levelers and center frame support that guarantee a solid workout experience.
Stability-wise too, the elliptical comprises angled moving handlebars that keep it as comfortable as possible for you to rest your hands. The presence of a three-speed fan keeps you cool while exercising your way through any of the 25 resistance levels possible.
The exercising experience is smooth and noiseless, given the high quality of the flywheel. Large ergonomic footplates come with a cushioning feature to get rid of any impact put on your knees. Hence, you can be sure that your knees stay safe!
Besides performance, the 470 elliptical model fares well in terms of display and other features. The latest Schwinn DualTrack LCD helps you track your goals and follow up on your metric details, including time, calories, and distance.
Upload these to the SchwinnConnect website to track your goals. The company has taken an innovative design by providing a ten-degree motorized ramp that provides an effective calorie-burning workout.
This is a good piece of equipment for fat burning as the digital program helps you determine whether you are in the ‘fat-burning zone.’
Pros
- Smooth and super performance
- 25 resistance levels and 10-degree incline
- 20-inch stride length protects your knees
- The machine comes loaded with good functionality and technology
Cons
- Generates noise
- Some individuals complain of defective parts
#2. Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine
There is no doubt that ellipticals offer several benefits over treadmills, including less stress in the hips, back, and knees. One specific model that satisfies the requirements of those who have bad knees is the Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine.
This is one of the perfect front-drive elliptical machines that keep you challenged yet let you exercise at your preferred intensity and pace. 20 levels of resistance help you achieve varying exercise intensity levels making the workout harder or easier based on your choice.
Compared with Sole E25, E35 has a 25 lbs heavier flywheel that assured a smooth and noiseless performance and a better weight capacity of 375 lbs. In terms of stability, don’t fret the slightest about it, as moving handlebars ensure stability even when working your legs using the oversized foot pedals.
The highlight here is that these pedals are ergonomically designed to minimize knee and ankle stress, and the integrated pulse sensor monitors your heart rate.
Set your goals and start working out on this elliptical, tracking your progress, and making use of the blue, backlit LCD that helps you attain your target fitness levels. If you want to keep your exercise routine challenging, use the adjustable pedals to go forward and backward.
Apart from amazing functionality, a couple of other optimal features make this model stand apart from the rest.
You get to enjoy multiple pre-built and custom programs, chest strap heart rate monitoring, a front-drive system, an excellent sound system, a built-in fan that helps you stay cool, and an LCD console.
Stay hydrated using the water bottle holder and track your progress using the 7.5-inch display that displays important metrics.
What’s stopping you from purchasing this multifunctional trainer anymore? It’s time to listen to your favorite songs using the in-built speakers and start exercising.
Pros
- The maximum user weight limit is 375 pounds
- Combines the best of features and functionality
- Solid, durable, comfortable, and noiseless operation
- An ideal piece of equipment for home gym use
Cons
- Not as noiseless as portrayed
- Resistance levels are not quite great
#3. Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series Elliptical
Get a commercial-grade elliptical and a gym-like setup in the comfort of your house using the Precor EFX 835 trainer.
Being a self-powered rear-drive elliptical, this high-end machine offers CrossRamp angles from 13-40 degrees, and the CrossRamp technology helps you adjust the height of the elliptical path of your foot’s travel path.
If you suffer from bad knee problems but are eager to stay fit using a fitness machine, feel free to try this model. The company has incorporated a patented low-impact EFX (elliptical fitness cross-trainer) technology that brings about the lowest Rate of Perceived Exertion than other exercise units.
The Variable Stride Geometry technology helps you target different muscle groups, including lower-body muscles providing a full-body workout.
Don’t doubt the challenging ability of the machine as such low impact is possible even if you are training strenuously. The patented motions help your heels stay in touch with the foot pedals, reducing muscle and tendon stress.
Besides this, 15 preset workout programs and 20 different resistance levels help any trainer use this piece of equipment without any hesitation.
You might be working out at any high intensity, but the machine helps you stay safe with its touch and telemetry heart rate monitoring using the Smart Rate and advanced metrics tracking.
The frame and construction are sturdy and durable as premium-quality parts are used, and hence, there is an amazing warranty provided.
Stay tuned, maintain your physique, and impose a minimal impact on your knees by purchasing the Precor 835 EFX model.
Pros
- Commercial-grade machine
- Assured durability, quality, and biomechanics
- A smooth and noiseless operation that doesn’t mean fae away even with prolonged use
- Minimal maintenance required
Cons
- Quite expensive but worth buying if you have the budget
#4. Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical
The Horizon 7.0 AE elliptical comes with a 20-inch stride length that’s acceptable for home gym use for those on a tight budget.
There is only a 10-inch step-on height that’s shorter than normal standards, and hence, it is of vital importance to those with low-ceiling homes.
The flywheel is 23 lb in weight and assures a noiseless and smooth performance, helping you find the right intensity of the workout. One of this machine’s highlights is its 20 adjustable inclination levels that benefit your glutes and hamstrings.
If you are looking for versatility, you might be quite disappointed as there are only 6 workout programs, but you can access speed and inclination options with the single touch of a button.
Other features included with this machine include built-in Bluetooth speakers that help us listen to our favorite music, a USB port that helps you charge your electronic gadget, a tablet rack to place your smartphone conveniently, and a built-in fan to stay cool while working out.
The company has even provided a free training AFG Pro Fitness training app that helps you store all essential workout data for future reference.
Coming to assembly, you shouldn’t face much problem assembling the machine as the instruction manual is clear and the required wrenches are included with your purchase.
The warranty offered is good as the product comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and 3 years on parts.
Pros
- Low step-on height
- 325 lb maximum user weight capacity
- Extra features such as a USB port, tablet holder, and fan
- One-touch access
- Good warranty
Cons
- Only 6 workout programs offered
#5. Teeter Free Step Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Teeter Freestep is a good recumbent cross trainer that belongs to the ‘stabilization’ series, and you can be guaranteed strengthened muscles and minimal risk of injury when you use this trainer regularly.
It is also a folding machine with moving arms and has done a good job providing us with an adjustable seat (the independent horizontal or vertical adjustment is not possible).
While recumbent bikes have either a linear or circular pedal motion, the Free Step Trainer uses a linear pedal motion, amazing for knee problems. It imposes minimum stress on your lower body joints.
Though the machine uses magnetic resistance, which ensures smooth performance, several individuals feel that the resistance provided is not challenging. You are provided with adjustable handles that help you activate various muscle groups.
Track your progress using a digital console that’s small but helps you track various metrics, including calories burned, speed, distance, and time.
Combine exercise with fun using the tablet holder that helps you listen to songs or even watch videos. Teeter offers a free fitness app to explore different workout ideas and incorporate them into your fitness routine.
When it comes to assembly, the process is pretty straightforward, and the tools required, such as wrenches and screwdrivers, are included with the machine.
Pros
- Easy to move using the transport wheels
- Budget pricing
- Magnetic resistance guarantees quiet performance
- Low-impact workout
- Adjustable handles
Cons
- The warranty could be better
- Absence of workout programs
#6. NordicTrack C 7.5 Elliptical
If you are not ready to settle for nothing lesser than the best, your choice must be for the NordicTrack C7.5 elliptical as it is unbeatable in terms of fitness technology and innovation.
To break your monotony, 26 different work apps help you do any of the built-in workouts available. This way, you are guaranteed to achieve your fitness goals and provided with the opportunity to customize your goals.
In terms of frame and construction, this compact NordicTrack elliptical machine is powerful and strong, especially with the 20lb flywheel that ensures smooth performance and a natural ride.
But the best feature is yet to come, and it is the adjustable stride length, which makes it the perfect pick for those of you with bad knees.
This feature helps you find the perfect length that matches your body movement and imposes minimal pressure on your knees.
With 22 digital resistance levels, feel free to adjust it at your convenience. The same holds good for incline levels, too—change from 0 to 20 as per your wishes.
There is more to this machine than simply offering the best range of movements. You can stay entertained as you exercise, using the tablet holder to watch your favorite movies or listen to some peppy numbers.
The integrated sound system produces superb sound using its 2-inch speakers.
Pros
- Solid build and construction
- Combines entertainment with exercise making use of a tablet holder
- Easy to assemble and use
- Excellent built-in programs
- A good piece of equipment for those with bad knees due to the machine’s powerful adjustable stride length
Cons
- Durability is an issue
#7. Xterra FS3.5 Elliptical Machine
The Xterra FS3.5 elliptical is a respectable option for consumers on a tight budget who want to upgrade their home gym with a piece of respectable indoor exercise equipment.
It has wonderful qualities and, with careful care, will last for a long time. Also, the FS3.5 has received several Best Buy recognitions and is still a contender in today’s market.
Coming to its feature, an ultra-smooth entire body exercise with coordinated upper and lower body movement is provided with the XTERRA FS3.5 Elliptical.
The innovative front-drive design offers a movement that is efficient and biomechanically sounds while maximizing your use of space with a tiny footprint.
Magnetic resistance is smooth, friction-free, and silent thanks to the system’s aluminum track wheels and smooth belt drive. A sizable, easily readable, blue-and-yellow backlit LCD panel that displays everything from speed and distance to calories and heart rate completes the console.
Users of all fitness levels will be challenged by the 24 programs, which include 12 preset, 4 heart rate, 1 target heart rate, 4 custom, 1 body fat, 1 watt, and 1 manual program with 24 levels of resistance.
The FS3.5 is developed for strength, durability, and years of maintenance-free performance while providing an incredible elliptical sensation at an exceptional value.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- 24 fitness programs
- 24 levels of resistance
Cons
- Lighter Flywheel
Is Elliptical OK for Bad Knees?
There are a couple of ways in which an elliptical might be advantageous compared to a treadmill—for instance, an elliptical places less stress on your knees, hips, and back.
Also, working out on an elliptical machine is considered to be a low-impact activity. Hence, it should not cause knee pain but remember that this is true only when using the machine correctly.
Being a low-impact aerobic activity, an elliptical machine could prove to be a precious alternative to running or jogging for those with joint pain.
For individuals with arthritis, such a possibility to compensate for running/jogging in the form of a low-impact activity is surely a blessing in disguise.
Is Using an Elliptical 100% Safe If You Have Bad Knees?
Sadly not! The elliptical design is such that though it mimics a natural running/walking motion, the body doesn’t move 100% in the same way it would if you were walking or running on the road.
Hence, the natural gait of your feet changes here. A 2007 study by the Florida Atlantic University Department of Exercise Science showed knee pain chances due to the elliptical machine.
This is because the base motion produced by the machine doesn’t match the natural joint motion, thereby straining your knees and hips.
Source: Elliptical Machines Can Have a Negative Impact on Knees
How to Use Elliptical Machines the Right Way?
So, when I say that you must use the elliptical in the right way, what exactly is meant by it? Your legs must swing backward and forward, mimicking the natural walking or running motion.
Still, contrary to the foot placement that you experience when you walk outside, on an elliptical, the feet are placed strongly on the platform, thereby impacting your natural gait and muscle movements.
If you fail to maintain the right position while exercising on the elliptical, there is a great risk of straining your knees.
Hence, before you start working out, ensure that the elliptical trainer is aligned to suit your physical requirements.
You can always ask the trainer for assistance regarding the right posture and techniques to be followed on the elliptical in a gym.
Reference
- https://livehealthy.chron.com/elliptical-make-bad-knees-worse-4647.html
- https://synergynaples.com/2018/05/elliptical-machines-have-a-negative-impact-on-knees/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/elliptical-machines/faq-20058294
- https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/knee-pain/treadmill-vs-elliptical
- https://aaptiv.com/magazine/elliptical-workouts-knees
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