The best recumbent elliptical is the one that’s easy on your back and joints while giving you an intense workout. This is even more important for seniors and individuals with knee pain, as the right equipment can help in strengthening muscles and reducing pain. [1]
With so many options in the market, it can get difficult to know which one is right for you. I have spent several months researching over 25 of the very best devices in the market and have evaluated them on parameters like:
- Impact on body
- Available features
- Training options
- Cost
- Customer reviews
If you’re looking for the ultimate winner, then I strongly recommend XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper.
However, you might have a specific need in mind, and that’s why I have created five categories and have listed my top picks in each.
Let’s find out which one is the best for you.
Best Recumbent Elliptical – Overall | XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper |
Best Recumbent Elliptical – Budget | Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Bike – SF-RB4708 |
Best Recumbent Elliptical – For seniors | HCI Fitness PhysioStep LXT |
Best Recumbent Elliptical – Heavy duty | HCI Fitness PhysioStep MDX |
Best Recumbent Elliptical – High-end | Spirit Fitness CRS800S Recumbent Stepper |
Not sure what to look for in a recumbent elliptical trainer? Check out our thorough buying guide that can bring you up to speed.
Top 5 Recumbent Ellipticals Reviewed
All recumbent elliptical cross trainers listed here are a great way to get a good low impact workout in the comfort of your home. Always consult a physician if you have any medical conditions.
XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper – Best recumbent elliptical (Overall)
Seat: Padded seat with mesh back
Ease of getting on the machine: Easy step-through design
Resistance: 24 levels
Heart rate monitoring: Handgrip sensor on seat side-handles
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 300lbs (136kgs)
Ideal User Height Range: 4’7″ to 6’2″
The Xterra Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper is an excellent product regardless of your age and physical ability. Read on to see all the benefits of this recumbent trainer.
Seat
- The seat is padded with a mesh back to provide comfort while you sit
- It is adjustable forward and backward as per your height
- Seat side-handles can move out of the way so you can enter and exit the machine with ease
Pedal
- Self-balancing pedals ensure that the pedals are always facing upwards, even when you are not using the equipment. This allows for an easy setup and a quick start to the workout
- Ratchet style pedal straps that make sure that your feet are secured in place
Stride motion
- 13” linear stepper like motion which gives a good workout with low impact on the joints
Handlebar
- Padded handgrip with 360o movement so you can hold the handlebar comfortably
- Adjustable length so you can customize it as per your body type
Console
- 5.6” LCD display which is easy to read
- Built-in speakers with an audio jack so you can connect your phone/tablet to play media
- 13 workout programs
Warranty
- Frame & Brake – Lifetime
- Parts – 3 years
- Labor – 1 year
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Adjustable handlebars and seat side-handles | Maximum height range of 6’2” |
24 resistance levels | |
The compact size of the equipment | |
Warranty |
Summary of customer reviews
This Xterra stepper is well-liked by the consumers, with many mentions about its comfortable seat and noiseless movement. However, a few people find this elliptical cross trainer difficult to assemble. Along with this, few users said that its twirling handgrip could be difficult to grab onto when in motion and have also pointed out the inaccuracy of its heart rate monitor.
Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Bike – SF-RB4708 – Best recumbent elliptical (Budget)
Seat: Wide bike seat with back support
Ease of getting on the machine: Easy step-through design
Resistance: 8 levels
Heart rate monitoring: Handgrip sensor on seat side-handles
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 350lbs (approx. 158kgs)
Ideal User Height Range: 5′ to 6’3″ (approx.)
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike – SF-RB4708 is the best value for money deal amongst all the recumbent cross-trainers. Let’s look at the benefits it provides to understand why it made it on our top 5 list.
Seat
- A wide bike seat with back support provides a comfortable sitting position during the workout
- The seat is adjustable forward and backward as per your height
Pedal
- Self-balancing pedals ensure that the pedals are always facing upwards, even when you are not using the fitness equipment. This allows for an easy setup and a quick start to the workout
- Adjustable straps to keep your feet in place during the workout
Stride motion
- Circular pedalling motion gives you a good lower body workout
Handlebar
- Non-slip handlebars ensure you get a full upper body workout while pedalling
Console
- Digital monitor which shows all the basic workout metrics and is super easy to use
Warranty
- Frame – 3 years
- Parts – 180 days
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Great price for all the essential features | Non-adjustable handlebars |
Lightweight so easily movable | Only 8 resistance levels |
Easy to assemble | |
Requires low maintenance |
Summary of customer reviews
Most users see the Sunny recumbent bike as value for money as it provides all the features you would expect from a recumbent trainer. However, a few customers find it slightly challenging to assemble, the seat uncomfortable (but using a cushion solves this problem), and the handlebars a bit high.
HCI Fitness PhysioStep LXT – Best recumbent elliptical (For seniors)
Seat: 20” wide swivel seat with memory foam
Ease of getting on the machine: Easy mounting/dismounting with swivel seat
Resistance: 32 levels
Heart rate monitoring: Handgrip sensor on seat side-handles
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 450lbs (approx. 204kgs)
Ideal User Height Range: 4’6″ to 6’4″
The HCI Fitness PhysioStep LXT is a fabulous recumbent cross trainer for seniors and people with mobility issues. This machine is also widely used for physical therapy and rehabilitation. Read on to see the benefits this recumbent elliptical provides.
Seat
- 360o swivel seat makes it super easy to get on and off the machine. This feature is very beneficial for elders, people with mobility issues, or those undergoing rehabilitation
- The seat is 20” wide and can easily accommodate people of different sizes
- It is made with memory foam and has a contoured reclining back so that you can sit comfortably for prolonged durations
- The seat is also adjustable forward and backward as per your height
Pedal
- Oversized pedals with heel cups and straps let you place your foot comfortably and also secures it in place
Stride motion
- Linear stepper like motion gives you a low impact workout, making it ideal for people with sensitive joints
- Stride length is adjustable from 1” to 12”, making it beneficial for people who have a limited range of motion
Handlebar
- The ergonomic handlebars can be rotated in multiple directions, targeting different muscle groups during the workout
- The length is adjustable, ensuring you have a comfortable workout
Console
- 9” LCD HD display is big and easy to read, which is a massive plus for the elderly
- Telescopic adjustments let you move the screen as per your line of vision
- Tracks numerous metrics during the workout, which can be exported using a USB drive
- 20 workout programs
Warranty
- Frame – Lifetime
- Parts – 3 years
- Labor – 1 year
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
360o Swivel seat | Expensive |
Adjustable stride length and handlebars | Heavy to move around |
Large and easy to read display console | |
32 resistance levels | |
Warranty |
Summary of customer reviews
Elderly consumers and those with disabilities find the HCI PhysioStep LXT very comfortable and easy to use. Features like the large screen, numerous programmed workouts, and customer service makes it the best seated elliptical for seniors.
HCI Fitness PhysioStep MDX – Best recumbent elliptical (Heavy Duty)
Seat: 20” wide swivel seat with memory foam
Ease of getting on the machine: Easy mounting/dismounting with swivel seat
Resistance: 16 levels
Heart rate monitoring: Built-in Receiver (chest belt not included)
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 500lbs (approx. 226kgs)
Ideal User Height Range: 5′ to 6’5″
The HCI Fitness PhysioStep MDX has made it on our list for having the maximum user height and weight capacity, in addition to all the fantastic benefits mentioned below.
Seat
- 360o swivel seat makes it super easy to get on and off the machine. A great feature for people with mobility issues
- The seat is 20” wide and can easily accommodate people of different sizes
- It is made with memory foam and has a contoured reclining back so that you can sit comfortably for prolonged durations
- The seat is adjustable forward and backward as per your height
Pedal
- Oversized pedals with heel cups and straps let you place your foot comfortably and also secures it in place
Stride motion
- 12″ circular pedalling motion, which gives you a full lower body workout
Handlebar
- The length is adjustable, ensuring you have a comfortable workout
- The ergonomic handlebars providing multiple grips, which help in targeting different muscle groups during the workout
Console
- 9” LCD HD display is big and easy to read
- Tracks numerous metrics during the workout, which can be exported using a USB drive
- 18 workout programs
Warranty
- Frame – Lifetime
- Parts – 3 years
- Labor – 1 year
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Best weight and height range | Expensive |
360o Swivel seat | Heavy to move around |
Adjustable handlebars | |
Large and easy to read display console | |
Warranty |
Summary of customer reviews
Most customers have had a positive experience using the HCI PhysioStep MDX. Users found the brand’s customer service quite helpful too.
Spirit Fitness CRS800S Recumbent Stepper – Best recumbent elliptical (High-end)
Seat: Swivel seat made with high-density foam
Ease of getting on the machine: Easy mounting/dismounting with swivel seat in addition to a step-through frame
Resistance: 20 levels
Heart rate monitoring: Handgrip sensor on seat side-handles & Bluetooth receiver (chest belt not included)
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 450lbs (approx. 204kgs)
Ideal User Height Range: 5′ to 6’3″ (approx)
The Spirit Fitness CRS800S Recumbent Stepper is the best home elliptical you can get on the market. It has the latest technology and features. Read ahead to see how these can benefit you.
Seat
- 360o swivel seat and the retractable armrest give you easy access to the machine. Great for people with mobility issues
- High-density foam seat with padded backrest provides you support and comfort while working out
- Armrest comes with adjustable height so you can sit with ease for long durations
- 4-way adjustable seat allows you to customize the sitting position at your convenience
Pedal
- Oversized and cushioned pedals with straps ensure you can place your foot comfortably and is secured in place
Stride motion
- Linear stepper like motion gives you a low impact workout
- Stride length is adjustable from 1” to 12.5″, making it beneficial for people who have a limited range of motion
Handlebar
- The ergonomic handlebar has multiple grip options so that you can target different muscle groups during the workout
- The length is adjustable, ensuring you have a comfortable workout
Console
- LED display console which tracks numerous metrics of your workout
- A cooling fan that lets you relax during the workout
- USB charging port so you can
Warranty
- Frame & Brake – Lifetime
- Parts – 3 years
- Labor – 1 year
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
360o swivel seat with retractable armrest | Expensive |
Adjustable stride length and handlebars | Heavy to move around |
Warranty | |
20 resistance levels | |
Cooling fan and USB charging port |
Summary of customer reviews
With most users giving the product 5-star ratings, the Spirit Fitness recumbent stepper is one of the best contenders in its category.
How to choose a Recumbent Elliptical?
The recumbent ellipticals available in the market today have numerous features. And this can make the buying process very confusing. So, to help you make the right choice, we have listed some of the crucial things you should look for in a recumbent elliptical.
Seat
Having a comfortable seat is super important as it will directly impact how much time you spend on the machine. Look for a large and well-padded seat that can move back and forth so you can adjust the distance from the console and the handlebars.
A few recumbent ellipticals come with a swivel seat. Here the seat rotates to the side, making getting on and off the elliptical very convenient. This feature is particularly useful for the elderly and people with mobility issues. However, it is usually present in the higher-end models.
Other add-ons for better comfort are adjustable reclining backrest and armrests.
Weight capacity
Recumbent ellipticals come with a maximum weight capacity of 300lbs to 600lbs. So before deciding which one fits your home, take every family member who might use it into consideration. And if confused between 2 machines, it is advisable to go for the one with the heavier capacity.
Additionally, you can do the same for height as well.
Pedal Motion
These machines have either linear (stepper-like) or circular (bike-like) motion. Although both give an effective workout, linear motion is better for sensitive joints as it has the lowest impact. So, consider the pedal motion before making the purchase.
Some high-end models also come with an adjustable stride length which can be adapted as per user height. This is great for people with a limited range of motion.
Warranty
Having a good warranty on workout equipment is crucial due to the regular wear and tear. Generally, expensive equipment will have longer warranty periods, but this may vary.
The warranty is generally on labor, parts, and the frame. Labor is the shortest at 1-2 years, followed by parts 3-5 years, and then frame 5 years to a lifetime.
Other features
Additionally, there are some other good-to-have features. Look out for the ones that will make your workout experience better:
- Display console – can vary from having a basic digital display to LCD/LED screens. They can also have Bluetooth connectivity and a USB charging port
- Walk-through frame – this is the ease of mounting and dismounting the machine
- Adjustable handlebars – ensures comfort while working out as per the user’s height
- Adjustable resistance – ensures a good workout for all fitness levels
- Smartphone / tablet / bottle holder
- Heart rate monitor
A few other things to consider while buying a seated stepper machine is the amount of space you have at home to accommodate the machine and if you can easily assemble it yourself.
Our Verdict
Hope this article has helped you find an elliptical that caters to your needs.
The important thing to remember is that it needs to be easy on your joints and back while giving you an effective workout.
With features like adjustable handlebars, a step-through design, 24 resistance levels, compact size, and comprehensive warranty, XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper is a clear winner for us.
FAQs about Recumbent Ellipticals
Here are answers to some of the commonly asked questions about cross-trainer recumbent bikes.
Are seated ellipticals better than standing ellipticals?
The goal of both these machines is to get you active and give you a good cardio workout. You should choose between a seated and standing option depending on your physical capabilities. Seated or recumbent ellipticals are great for people undergoing physical therapy/rehabilitation and those who have limited mobility. Alternatively, you can also check out the best recumbent bike for obese for an effective workout while ensuring a safer and more comfortable posture.
What muscles do recumbent ellipticals work on?
Recumbent ellipticals work on the upper and lower body muscles. For example, the pedaling motion of the legs works on the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf. At the same time, the rotation of the arms works on the shoulder, back, biceps and triceps. Another great option for getting a full body workout are these exercise bike with arms.
How many calories are burned on a recumbent elliptical?
Recumbent ellipticals burn 250 to 400 calories for every 30 mins of workout, depending on your body weight. On average, a 160 lbs person will burn 340 calories in 30 mins of working out on this machine.
While effective, these machines can occupy a lot of space. If you’re looking for a more space-efficient workout machine that helps you burn similar calories, we recommend checking out the best under-desk treadmill for a heavy person.
P.S. You might have heard of the phrase ‘you can’t out-run your diet’. It’s an important fact to keep in mind, especially if you are looking to lose weight. So please pay close attention to your diet and improve your daily protein intake. One of the easiest ways to do that is by adding the best protein powder based on your need to your diet.
Do seated ellipticals give a good workout? Are seated ellipticals beneficial?
Ellipticals, like any other cardio machine, give you an excellent cardiovascular workout. This helps in building stamina and maintaining your heart health. In addition, the seated elliptical are great as they make the exercise less strenuous, thus allowing you to do a longer workout.
What is the best store to buy a recumbent elliptical?
The most convenient place to buy a recumbent elliptical is Amazon. It has all the latest equipment and provides delivery and assembly (if required). Additionally, you can also check for warranty and return options before you make the purchase.
Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is for educational and informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be considered as health or medical advice. Please consult a doctor or a qualified health professional if you have any medical/health conditions questions.