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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
From HIIT to yoga: The best online workout programs of 2025 for every exercise preference
We broke a sweat testing 22 apps and platforms to find the best for every need Raise your hand if you've ever bought a gym membership with big dreams ... only to ghost it after two weeks. Yeah, me too. Here's what nobody tells you about gym memberships: They often end up being expensive guilt subscriptions. But online workouts? That's where the magic happens. You can sweat it out at 6 a.m. or 11 p.m. — whenever your chaotic life more sprinting to make that 7 p.m. yoga class. No more hovering around the squat rack like a vulture waiting for Brad to finish his bicep selfie session. Just you, your living room and all the gains your heart you've been thinking, "But home workouts aren't as good as the real thing!" Plot twist: They actually are. While studies tend to be small, researchers have found that virtual workouts can be just as effective as gym sessions. Plus, there appears to be a mental health boost from online workouts similar to that of other exercise sessions — you may find yourself feeling happier and more energized after each to build muscle? There's an app for that. Need to torch calories? Covered. Just want to move your body without feeling like a sweaty mess in public? We've got you. HIIT, yoga, strength training, dance workouts — it can all be right there on your phone. As Jenny Liebl, a certified trainer and senior product developer at the International Sports Sciences Association, puts it: "There's a wide variety of online fitness professionals offering an even wider variety of programs, guidance and coaching in the online format — there's someone out there for everyone!"We had two writers test a total of 22 online fitness programs for this piece — one, a personal trainer herself, and the other a fitness "dabbler." Together, they talked to four fitness specialists and tested a range of workout platforms to figure out what actually works. Ready to ditch the excuses and turn your living room into a sweat sanctuary? Let's dig in. Table of contents Best overall online workout program More online workout programs we like for 2025 Factors to consider when choosing an online workout program How we chose Other online workout programs we tested FAQs Meet our experts Update, July 16, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and tested a wide range of new options. Our No. 1 pick for the best online workout program changed due to Centr's increased programming options and expanded library of healthy living tutorials. We also added new categories, including "Best for hypertrophy," "Best for busy lifestyles," "Best for circuit training," "Best for prenatal and postpartum fitness," "Best for Pilates," "Best for beginner strength training," "Best for running," "Best for women's health" and "Best free online workout program." Best overall online workout program (back to top) More online workout programs we like for 2025 (back to top) Factors to consider when choosing an online workout program Before starting your search for a fitness program, it's essential to take time to reflect on what you want in a program to ensure it's the right fit. "Clearly define your own fitness goals and consider what you want to achieve in a specific timeframe," says Kyrie Furr, director of performance fitness at Athletic Lab. Liebl agrees, emphasizing that users should select a fitness platform that suits their individual needs. She says, "If they prefer a live class with a specific training style, they can likely find that option. For those who just need a plan to follow at the gym and then provide feedback, that's easily available too." It's all about finding a program tailored to your preferences, whether it's live interaction or independent workouts. Liebl continues: "Online clients should find a fitness professional they connect with or an app they like the functionality of. The training style, philosophies, personality and expertise should align." She also explains the importance of reviews, advising, "Try performing an online search of the trainer or application name for reviews, or, if you have a hard time finding any, ask the fitness professionals themselves for any reviews or client testimonials they can share!" Here are some other factors to consider when selecting the best online workout programs: Variety: Ensure the platform offers a wide range of workouts such as strength training, yoga or HIIT to keep it interesting. Qualified trainers: "Certification indicates that a trainer is familiar with best practices in fitness, including proper form, technique and programming tailored to different fitness levels and goals. Certified trainers have undergone formal education and training in fitness principles, exercise physiology and injury prevention, which helps ensure that the programs they create are safe and effective," says Furr. Progression levels: "Choose a program that matches your current fitness level — beginner, intermediate or advanced," says Furr. Cost: Evaluate subscription fees versus the value provided. Community support: "Some platforms offer community features, like forums or social media groups, which can provide motivation and accountability," says Furr. Flexibility: Opt for programs that offer on-demand or live classes to fit your schedule. Coaching and feedback preferences: Liebl notes that understanding how you like to be coached and receive feedback can influence your decision. Perhaps you need continual motivation from a coach or you prefer a more independent approach. Also, consider your comfort level with doing a program on your own. Are you self-motivated enough to follow an online workout, or do you need the structure and guidance of a live class or personal trainer? Tailoring these factors to your preferences will help you choose a fitness program that really works for you. Michelle Ditto, VP of training and technique at Pure Barre, suggests experimenting. "Allow yourself to trial-and-error fitness concepts you like, and don't be afraid to avoid what you don't; there is no rule that you have to run or do yoga or HIIT or even barre to be fit! You are an experiment; find what works for you with the goal to find a program that you can stick with long term. Give yourself six months. Break it up into smaller chunks if you need to, and commit to one month or even one week at a time. You are worth the effort to find something that you both enjoy and that is also health promoting. And luckily, myriad modalities fit both of those parameters." (back to top) How we chose We collaborated with four fitness professionals to identify the best online fitness programs and conducted a detailed review. They included certified personal trainers (CPTs), a certified high-performance coach and a doctor of physical therapy. Two testers — a relative fitness newbie and a personal trainer — personally tested 20-plus platforms, exploring various workout styles and formats from each. This in-depth analysis allowed us to evaluate the quality, user experience and effectiveness of different digital workout programs. (back to top) Other online workout programs we tested When searching for the best workout plan, we tested a range of platforms. Below are options we tested that didn't quite make the cut: Muscle Booster: This app lets you customize workouts based on your location (home or gym) and available equipment, which sounds great in theory. You can target specific body parts and choose your focus areas. However, the onboarding process is pretty questionable — the "body type" options don't include being already fit, and the language around "target zones" feels outdated. Even after selecting "advanced" as my fitness level, the workouts were surprisingly basic, with just four exercises, including only two compound movements. The warm-ups and cooldowns were longer than the actual strength training, which doesn't make much sense. While it offers video demos and adjusts future workouts based on your performance, plus includes challenges and recipes, the workout programming just wasn't solid enough to earn a spot on our list. FitFusion: If streaming is your go-to, FitFusion might catch your eye. The app runs smoothly across devices — from smart TVs and Rokus to your everyday phone — so it's easy to get your workout in, wherever you are. With big-name trainers leading sessions, you'll find everything from HIIT and dance cardio to barre and Pilates. There's also the option to download classes for offline use, which is handy when Wi-Fi's spotty. That said, the app lacks features to help you plan out a workout routine, doesn't include much in the way of strength training or more structured workouts, and the trial is just seven days. Still, at $15 a month, it delivers plenty of variety for the price. The Floss: Bonnie Crotzer founded this innovative platform dedicated to fascia flossing, a practice designed to release tension, improve flexibility and promote better circulation by remodeling the fascia — your body's connective tissue. It offers comprehensive tools and guidance on using fascia flossing to relieve pain and improve function. However, because it focuses solely on fascia-based practices, there was little variety in workout styles, so it didn't make our list of finalists. Peloton app: You don't need the iconic Peloton bike to enjoy its world-class classes. From cycling to strength training, yoga and more, there's a massive variety of enjoyable workouts led by motivating instructors, and you can use whatever equipment you have. The app tends to focus on workouts that require equipment (cycling, rowing, treadmill), and it lacks a broader selection of dance cardio options, so for me, it fell short. 8fit: If you're looking for personalized workout and meal plans in one place, 8fit is a solid option. Workouts include boxing, Pilates, HIIT and meditation, but there wasn't as much variety as with some similarly priced options. CorePower Yoga: Known for its intense sculpt and hot yoga sessions, CorePower is a great pick for seasoned yogis looking to push their limits. The Yoga Sculpt classes blend vinyasa flow with strength training (expect to break a serious sweat). There are also gentler options like Core Restore, which focus on deep stretching and relaxation. You can access classes online, via the app or attend in-person at over 200 studios across the U.S. While the variety is impressive, the classes skew toward intermediate and advanced levels, which may not be ideal for beginners. MapMyFitness: This Outside-powered app works more like a supercharged fitness tracker than a structured program. With GPS mapping, route planning and the ability to log everything from runs to strength sessions, it's great for those who like to build their own routines. You can track your progress over time, join monthly, seasonal, and yearly challenges, and even share milestones on the community feed. But since it's more of a data tool than a workout platform, it didn't quite make the finalist list for guided programs. (back to top) FAQs What are online workout programs? "Online workout programs are fitness routines that are delivered through digital platforms," says Michael Masi, Doctor of Physical Therapy and personal trainer. "The key feature of online workout programs is their accessibility, meaning users can engage in workouts from anywhere, provided they have an internet connection," he continues. What are the advantages of online workouts? The best online fitness programs have many advantages. "First, online programs are generally more cost-effective, making them accessible to a wider audience," says Masi. "Second, they offer greater flexibility, allowing individuals to work out when and where it's most convenient for them. Third, online platforms typically provide a broad variety of workouts, from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), ensuring that users can find programs suited to their fitness levels and goals. Beyond that, some online programs allow users to work out in the comfort and privacy of their own home. This has a fairly large appeal, especially for beginners who may feel intimidated by a gym environment," he notes. Are online fitness programs as effective as in-person training? Research shows that online exercise classes are effective for increasing strength and muscle mass and improving cardiovascular health. A study comparing body mass-based exercises performed online via Zoom and in-person training showed similar results for both groups. Our experts agree. According to Ditto, online fitness programs can be as effective as in-person training, though there are key differences. "Online workout programs can offer a simple starting point to engage with physical activity from the comfort of anywhere you need to be," says Ditto. She emphasizes that these programs offer greater flexibility and convenience, allowing you to work out immediately from home without needing to travel. However, she also points out that "in-person programs feature one-on-one, tailored interaction," providing personal accountability and a sense of community that many online programs might lack. She suggests balancing these aspects based on your fitness goals and preferences. Liebl adds, "When created with a level of individualization for each client and with appropriate detail, online workouts and programs can be just as effective as in-person training." She elaborates that comprehensive instruction can take different forms based on the client's needs. For example, video demonstrations of movements can help visually guide the user through proper form and technique, making it easier for them to follow along. Alternatively, detailed written instructions can benefit those who prefer step-by-step breakdowns of how to execute a movement. These can include specific cues for body positioning, timing or modifications. Both methods are tailored to the client's learning style to ensure the successful performance of exercises. (back to top) Meet our experts Michelle Ditto, VP of training and technique at Pure Barre Kyrie Furr, certified high-performance coach and director of performance fitness at Athletic Lab Jenny Liebl, CPT and senior product developer at the International Sports Sciences Association Michael Masi, doctor of physical therapy and a certified personal trainer at Masi Fitness (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
You only need 2 dumbbells and 6 moves to build full-body muscle and boost your metabolism
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. You're busy — there's work to do, chores to finish, social events to attend and families to look after. That's why you're looking for a short but very effective routine you can do at home to build muscle all over and raise your heart rate with just a set of dumbbells. So, grab a set of the best adjustable dumbbells (these are expensive, but flexible and make a great home workout companion) and roll out a yoga mat, then you're ready to take on this session from YouTube fitness duo Juice & Toya. There are just six exercises in total. You'll repeat the round three times, adding more weight into the mix each time The first round, it's body weight only. Then, one dumbbell, before ending the third round with two weights. If you're not sure which load to lift initially, Toya uses 5 and 10lbs dumbbells for the routine, while Juice works out with 10 and 15lbs. You'll train for 25 seconds, take a 15-second break, then start the next exercise. As there's not a long break between move (15 seconds), adjustable 'bells mean you can quickly switch loads before the next one begins, and you can gradually increase the weight as you get stronger over time, in line with the progressive overload technique. Watch Juice & Toya's 30-minute dumbbell workout I always love Juice & Toya's workouts because they're effective, easy to follow and the pair demonstration different versions of the same move (standard and with modifications). However, for this one, there are no modifications. Instead, as Toya explains at the start, if you need to adjust the intensity of the exercise, either lower the load you're lifting or switch to using your body weight alone. There's a common myth that dropping weights is a 'failure', but it definitely isn't. As someone that's trained with weights for years, the worst mistake I made when first starting out was to lift too heavy. This meant I arched my lower back (hello, back pain) and I didn't focus on my form enough, so I wasn't getting much from the moves either. So, don't do what I did; if you need to drop the weight that's absolutely okay. You want to stick to the correct form to get the muscle-building effects of the routine. Plus, as it's arranged as a high-intensity resistance training workout, there are other benefits too. Working your muscles hard in quick bursts and keep breaks to a minimum increases your heart rate, so you burn more energy than during an equivalent steady-paced routine. And, over time, this can increase your metabolism as well. So, you end up with a muscle-building, core-strengthening, fat-burning, metabolism-boosting workout you can do in less time than it takes to watch an episode of your favorite TV show — and you only need two dumbbells to get started. More from Tom's Guide Forget the gym — this 30-minute kettlebell workout will sculpt a stronger core and boost your metabolism I dared to exercise without music — what happened next surprised me Forget sit-ups — build a stronger core and improve your posture with this 15-minute standing abs workout
Associated Press
04-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
RITFIT's 2025 Strategy: Elevating Home Fitness with Personalized, Professional-Grade Equipment
LOUISVILLE, Ky., July 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RITFIT, a leading global home fitness brand, has made a groundbreaking announcement at the HomeGymCon 2025, revealing its ambitious 25-year vision to evolve from its reputation as the 'affordable home fitness specialist' into a premium 'customized training partner.' The brand showcased its revolutionary product lineup that embodies this strategic transformation, marking a new era in personalized home workout experiences. Drawing on its extensive technical expertise and insights gathered from years of focus on the fitness industry, RITFIT has introduced a diverse range of new products. These cutting-edge innovations cater to the varied fitness needs of modern households, offering users smarter and more personalized home fitness experiences. By addressing specific requirements such as those of female users and families residing in compact spaces, RITFIT provides tailored solutions that make professional-grade fitness accessible to every home. This customer-centric approach propels the fitness industry toward greater customization and a more human-centered design. Among the new products that have been showcased at the expo is the RITFIT M2, the world's first all-in-one training machine that can be optionally equipped with a 3D Smith Module, elevating home fitness to the standards of a professional gym. The M2 features a Smith machine and a cable pulley system, while its enhanced load capacity and optional 3D Smith Module and Cable-Actuated Jammer Arm make it ideal for users seeking both stability and versatility. Despite its powerful capabilities, the M2 boasts a compact footprint of just 64.5" x 68.75", addressing the common issue of professional equipment occupying excessive space. This innovative space-saving design enables even smaller households to create a professional training environment, making the M2 a top choice for those striving for professional training results. The RITFIT Buffalo Wild stands out as a top-of-the-line all-in-one training machine crafted from heavy-duty 12-gauge steel. With a 2"x 3" thick tube structure providing a 1500-pound load capacity, users can engage in high-intensity with confidence and training . The revolutionary interchangeable cable ratio system (1:1/2:1) caters to personalized training needs ranging from strength to functional exercises, all in one unit. Additionally, features such as quick-release weight storage pins, a multi-grip pull-up bar, a 573 lb-rated Smith frame, 800 lb-rated dip bar handles, and dual 420 lb cable stacks facilitate efficient multi-scenario training. Together they revolutionize home equipment standards with commercial-grade performance. In addition, RITFIT showcased other two new products respectively for leg extension/curl and chest/shoulder press. The RITFIT Plate-Loaded Leg Extension/Curl Combo Machine allows the users to fine-tune resistance without the hassle of adding or removing plates. Equipped with a sliding carriage system for a quick-release handle and smooth linear bearings, weight adjustments are effortless-even when the machine is loaded . The RITFIT Plate-Loaded Chest/Shoulder Press is engineered with it owned rotary adjustment handle and 8-gauge travel sector plate, allowing to customize the range of motion to ensure optimal performance and comfort in every session. Both of the machines can bring comfort, flexible and efficient training experience to users. RITFIT's meticulously designed Dream Home Gym Showroom provides fitness enthusiasts an immersive product experience. Visitors can explore a wide range of star products, including Smith machines and strength training equipment, to witness their exceptional performance firsthand. The showroom features a user-friendly product comparison test area to highlight technical differences and features. A team of professional fitness consultants is on hand to offer personalized advice, recommending the best fitness solutions based on individual training needs and space limitations. 'Our name is derived from the fusion of 'Right' and 'Fitness.' RITFIT originated from a belief in the right to steer one's fitness journey and choose high-quality equipment,' explained RITFIT Founder Yann Lin. 'Since2015, we have remained dedicated to seamlessly blending the outstanding performance of professional gyms with the convenience of home use. Today, through strategic enhancements and product innovations, our goal is to offer truly personalized fitness solutions for each member of the family. We are confident that the perfect integration of smart technology and user-centric design will establish RITFIT as an essential professional fitness partner in your home, heralding a new era of healthy living.' For more information, please visit and showroom: or follow RITFIT on Instagram (@ ), YouTube (@ ), and TikTok (@ ). View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE RITFIT LLC
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Too hot for outdoor walks? This Amazon walking pad will help you hit your step goals indoors (and it's 53% off ahead of Prime Day)
Walking is so good for you, but sometimes it's hard to get out the door. Now that it's summer, there will undoubtedly be some sweltering days to come, making things even more challenging. Walking pads are a great way to help keep up with your steps without having to leave the house on those dreadfully hot days. They're also ideal if you work from home and need to get some steps in on your lunch break. The bestselling Sperax Walking Pad from Amazon Canada is currently a whopping 53 per cent off, bringing its price tag down to $280 ahead of Amazon Prime Day 2025. It's shopper-approved, with reviewers calling it "fantastic" and "reliable." Plus, it's "easy to move" and store, too. Scroll below for more details on this epic deal. Save 53 per cent on this under-desk treadmill. The best part about this Amazon walking pad is that it comes fully assembled, so you can hop on it as soon as you unbox it. It supports up to 320 pounds and has a strong but quiet motor that won't distract you while you work (or binge Netflix). It has a sleek design that won't be an eyesore in your space, but if you don't want it occupying your room, it can easily be slid under a bed or sofa thanks to its handy wheels. The built-in LED screen will help you keep track of your progress, and the remote will help you adjust the speed without interrupting your stride. It's perfect for homebodies, WFH-ers, stay-at-home moms and anyone who just wants to reach their step goals in the comfort of their own home. ⭐️ 4.1/5 stars 💬 2,600+ reviews 🏆 "Great little treadmill, even for heavier people!" Amazon reviewers call this walking pad an "excellent item," and one person stated it's "great for the home office." They said it's "nice and compact," and fits perfectly "under a low bed when not in use." "If you want a small maneuverable treadmill, this is it," writes another. "It is so easy to set up," they continued. And a notable mention is that "there is no noise transfer between the floors" in their house. Save 53 per cent on this under-desk treadmill. Another shopper said they "absolutely love this" and dubbed it the "best purchase ever." However, they did note that "it's a bit shorter than big ones at the gym," so it takes a second to adjust to "slightly shorter strides." They also added that it's "perfect for small spaces." As for complaints, some have pointed out it has a "very short power cord" and that it "could be wider." Someone warned, "If you have really long legs and take big steps, this might not be for you." If you work from home, chances are you get fewer steps in than you should. You don't have to hit the gym or invest in an expensive treadmill to fix that — this walking pad is a great bang for your buck. You can even tuck it under your desk to multitask during the workday. And it's small-space approved since it won't take up any real estate. Plus, it's great for conquering your walking goals even when it's sweltering hot outside. However, be sure to read the specs before purchasing, as this may not meet your requirements depending on height and stride.
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best elliptical for 2025: Low-impact, joint-friendly workouts at home
Ellipticals are second only to treadmills in popularity as home fitness equipment and for good reason. They're an excellent option for enjoying a low-impact, full-body workout that improves cardio while engaging multiple muscle groups. If you're in the market for a home machine, choosing one of the best ellipticals is a no-brainer. "Elliptical trainers are a great piece of [equipment] for those looking for a low-impact workout to improve their cardiovascular fitness and tone their legs and buttocks," Michael Betts, a director of TrainFitness, tells Yahoo Life. Add the handlebars into the mix, and you're engaging your upper body, allowing for a full-body workout that can help strengthen your arms while improving overall endurance. Ellipticals provide a well-rounded workout that also offers benefits like improved balance and coordination, notes Devin Trachman, an orthopedic physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central. Elliptical workouts are particularly valued for being easy on the lower body, making them a top choice for individuals seeking a low-impact workout. "It's a great option for people of all fitness levels, especially if you're looking to protect your knees and joints," says Thomas Altadonna, owner of Platinum Fitness. Concerned that low impact equals low effort? That's not the case. Small studies indicate that injured runners find elliptical training to be an excellent substitute for running, comparable to using a treadmill or stepper. It's clear that ellipticals offer a range of benefits for fitness enthusiasts of all levels. But how do you choose the best one for your needs? We consulted personal trainers and a physical therapist, researched the market and put a few of the most popular models to the test. Here's what we discovered. We are currently testing the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical and are sourcing additional machines to continue testing throughout 2025. This article will be updated periodically to reflect any new findings. Our previous No. 1 pick for best overall elliptical remains unchanged. Ellipticals vary widely in features and performance, so understanding your specific needs can help you find the right fit. Keep these factors in mind as you explore your options: Fitness goals and workout preferences: Elliptical machines vary greatly in their workout offerings. Some include simple, built-in programs, while others feature advanced, high-tech workouts or sync seamlessly with fitness apps. If you're planning to use your elliptical casually while watching TV, you might not need extra features. However, if you want a machine that delivers a workout class experience, it's worth investing in one with integrated programs. Keep in mind that these options often require a separate membership for access to premium content. Stride length and comfort: A stride length of about 20 inches feels comfortable for most people, according to Thomas. "If the stride is too short, you might feel cramped or restricted, like you're not moving enough. If it's too long, it could strain your hips or feel awkward," he explains. To ensure the best fit, consider testing a machine at your local gym to find what feels most natural for your body. Also, keep in mind that ellipticals that double as steppers (like the Bowflex Max Trainer SE) frequently have shorter strides due to the more vertical — rather than horizontal — elliptical movement. Budget and value: Ellipticals range widely in price, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. However, a higher price tag doesn't always mean a better machine. Focus on the features you'll actually use before committing to a more expensive option. If advanced tech and extra features aren't important to you, there's no reason to spend more on technical bells and whistles. Space in the home: Ellipticals tend to take up more space than other home fitness equipment, so it's essential to ensure you have enough room for one. Measure the dimensions of the machine and compare them with your available space, factoring in extra room for getting on and off easily and moving around it comfortably. Connectivity/technology: Some ellipticals offer Bluetooth connectivity to stream music or workouts, although this isn't a given. Many also allow you to sync up your workout to an app. As with many exercise machines, the more high-tech the equipment, the higher the price tag tends to be, so consider what you'll actually use before purchasing a machine. Moving or fixed handlebars: Ellipticals often come with either moving handlebars, fixed handlebars or both. Moving handlebars add an upper-body component to your workout. According to Trachman, "The additional movement of arms during an elliptical workout increases calorie burn." The more muscles you engage during a workout, the more calories you burn. For versatility, many machines allow you to switch between moving and fixed handlebars. "If you are targeting a full-body workout, it is best to incorporate arms moving," Trachman says. "If you want to isolate core control and activation, try incorporating some fixed arm intervals into your workout." By alternating between the two, you can tailor your elliptical sessions to suit your fitness goals and keep your workouts dynamic. To determine the best elliptical machines, the Yahoo Life team conducted an in-depth analysis of the market, identifying the most popular and highly rated options. From there, we tested six ellipticals over three months, evaluating key features such as ease of assembly, workout programs, sturdiness, adjustability, smoothness, resistance levels and material quality. We also consulted with three fitness experts — two personal trainers and a physical therapist — to gather insights on the most important features to consider in a high-quality elliptical. The author of this story, Korin Miller, is a seasoned health journalist and former competitive athlete with years of experience using and testing ellipticals, adding her professional and personal expertise to the process. This thorough evaluation ensured our picks meet a wide range of needs and preferences. We also continue to test new products as they become available, adjusting our findings as new testing is completed. An elliptical trainer offers a low-impact cardiovascular workout. "It's a full-body workout that targets the legs, glutes, core and arms," Trachman says. "An elliptical offers several customizable choices, from interval training to hills and target heart-rate programs. It also helps to improve balance and coordination for overall health." Ellipticals often offer a range of resistance levels, allowing users to tailor the workout to their own needs. In general, 18 to 20 inches is considered standard for an elliptical stride. However, stride length typically corresponds to your height. If you're on the shorter side, a machine with an 18-inch stride may be a good option, Betts explains. If you're tall, a 20-inch model is likely better. Just keep in mind that a more vertical elliptical that doubles as a stair stepper may have a shorter stride length due to the change in stride direction (vertical versus horizontal). No, an elliptical is not considered harder on your knees than a treadmill. "On a treadmill, even when walking, you're lifting your foot off the belt and then placing it back down," Betts says. "This results in an impact force which causes a jarring effect on your ankles, knees and hips." That force also increases as your speed increases. Ellipticals remove that impact force, Betts points out. "Your foot remains in the pedal throughout, giving a smooth, gliding motion that's very easy on the knees." Several factors impact the number of calories you burn on an elliptical, including your age, weight, workout intensity, resistance level and the duration of your session, says Trachman. On average, however, you can expect to burn approximately 350 to 450 calories per hour on the machine. Although these ellipticals didn't make our final list, they offer some interesting features worth mentioning: Sole E95S, $2,600: Our tester appreciated the machine's smooth stride and touchscreen display, but she also found that it was too big and clunky to fit in most home spaces. It also was difficult to assemble, came with parts that scratched or bent easily and had a manufacturer's defect that the company later fixed. Merach High-End Elliptical, no longer available: The Merach machine our user tested is no longer available on the Merach website or Amazon. This machine had an appealingly low price and a smooth ride. However, our tester didn't like the knee-level controls and found that there was limited resistance in the arms. She also found it could be tricky for people with balance issues. Merach's just-released elliptical machines may be better suited for most users. We will work to test these new models in 2025. Echelon Ellipse EL-8s, $1,400: Our tester was excited to test out this machine, especially given the higher-tech screen and integrated workout programs, but the elliptical she received arrived damaged. Repeated attempts to connect with the brand to fix the problem weren't addressed, so the product was eliminated from the testing pool. Thomas Altadonna, a personal trainer and the owner of Platinum Fitness Michael Betts, personal trainer and director at TrainFitness Devin Trachman, an orthopedic physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
