This article will discuss the best machines for cardio and low-impact workouts, particularly for older and overweight women. These machines are gentler on the body and easier on the joints.
We’ll also give you some tips on how to choose the right machine for your needs.
And with winter, the holidays, and 2023 just around the corner- there’s no better time to take care of YOU!!!
What Machine Is Best For Me?
Choosing the right machines for your home gym is important.
In addition to the basic essential items you need to start your home gym, you’ll want to add an exercise machine that compliments your workout preferences but is also low impact and easy on your musculoskeletal system.
When women age, they often experience more joint pain and other issues.
You must also consider your weight, any pre-existing injuries, and your fitness goals.
If you are overweight or have injuries, you may want to choose a different machine than someone who is fit and has no weight issues.
So let’s dive in and have a look at some of them!
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1.) Treadmills
A treadmill is a piece of cardio equipment that allows you to walk or run in place. It’s a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories, without having to constantly head outdoors.
Treadmills also have a variety of features that can make your workout more effective, such as adjustable speed and incline settings. If you’re looking for a piece of equipment that will help you get in shape and stay fit, a treadmill is a great choice.
Walking at a good steady pace with a gradual incline is recommended rather than running, for the best possible joint health.
Top 3 Treadmills for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: Bowflex Treadmill 22
Get the ultimate workout experience with the Bowflex Treadmill 22 and a 1-Year JRNY Membership! This treadmill allows you to access custom workouts personalized to your needs and coaches you through them all from the built-in touchscreen.
And now you can watch Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, and HBO Max accounts on the 22″ console while working out (Streaming subscriptions not included).
There are 50+ global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed. Additionally, this treadmill is packed with features like a motorized decline/incline -5% to 20%, extended handlebar grips for high incline workout, speeds up to 12 mph, 22″ x 60″ running path with Comfort Tech deck cushioning, and SoftDrop folding technology.
It also has powerful Bluetooth speakers and an operational horsepower of up to approx. 1.9HP motor (motor is 3HP capable but restricted by amperage from home outlets). The assembled dimensions of this machine are 85″ L x 39.6″ W x 70″ H and the machine’s weight is 336 lbs.
2.) Best Durable: SOLE Fitness F80 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-quality treadmill with all the bells and whistles, the SOLE F80 is a perfect choice.
It features an industry-leading warranty and a proprietary Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, which is shown in a study to reduce the impact on your joints by up to 40% compared to running on asphalt.
This treadmill also offers a 3.5 CHP, DC Type motor with a 0.5-to-12 MPH speed range, 0-to-15% rack-and-pinion gear design incline, two-ply belt, pulse grip, and chest strap heart rate monitoring for optimal performance.
It also has six standard programs, two custom programs, two heart programs, a 375-pound weight limit, a 7.5-inch LCD workout display as well as cooling fans, and MP3 compatible sound system.
The measurements are 35 by 58 by 80 inches W x H x D, it weighs 265 pounds, is suitable for any space and size requirement, and comes with manufacturer’s warranties: lifetime on frame, motor, and deck; five years on electronics; and two years on labor.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Horizon T202 Treadmill
With a 2.50 horsepower continuous-duty motor, the Horizon T202 Treadmill can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour and an incline of up to 12 percent for a wide range of workouts.
The running area is 20 by 55 inches with PerfectFLEX PLUS cushioning and a FeatherLIGHT folding lift system for easy storage.
Additionally, the treadmill comes with two 4-digit LED display windows, an alphanumeric display, an LED brickyard workout profile, and 12 programming options so you can keep track of your performance.
It also includes Sonic Surround speakers with Made for iPod compatibility (charging and control) as well as pulse grip heart rate monitoring.
This treadmill is suitable for people weighing up to 325 pounds, has product dimensions of 177.8 x 83.82 x 147.32 cm; and weighs 88.9 Kilograms or 195 pounds.
2.) Ellipticals
Ellipticals are one of the best choices for home gyms.
Because ellipticals don’t require you to put any weight on your joints, they provide a lower-impact workout than treadmills or stair climbers.
This can further reduce the risk of injuries and make your workout more comfortable.
Additionally, ellipticals are easy to use and require minimal setup.
Top 3 Ellipticals for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
Take your workouts to the next level with the Explore the World subscription and discover 50+ global routes that will auto-adjust in real time to your speed.
With enhanced Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily set, track and monitor progress using popular app-based tracking tools.
The 10° motorized adjustable ramp provides incline control for fun and challenging workouts. The resistance levels provide a wide range of workout intensity options while the DualTrack blue backlit LCD system displays 29 workout programs for you to choose from.
For even more comfort, enjoy a 20″ stride with Precision Path foot motion technology that simulates a natural running motion. The Schwinn 470 Elliptical is made of steel and has dimensions of 51″ x 34″ x 22″, weighs 90.72 Kilograms or 200 pounds, and includes a 20 Inch LCD display.
2.) Most Durable: NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Smart Elliptical
Get the most out of your workouts with the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Smart Elliptical and its 30-Day iFIT Family Membership.
This elliptical offers immersive 7-inch interactive HD touchscreen which streams live & on-demand iFIT workouts right to your device, allowing up to 5 users to use simultaneously.
It features global terrain with its Automatic Trainer Control, adjustable stride for running, hiking, and walking, and 20-degree Adjustable Power Ramp.
With 22 digital levels of resistance and a SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance system for near-silent home exercise, you’re sure to have an effective workout every time.
The NordicTrack has a 10-year frame warranty, 2-year parts warranty, and 1-year labor warranty with a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds and dimensions of 68.5″ H x 28.75″ W x 68.25″ L.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Sunny Health & Fitness Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine
Get a great workout with the Sunny Health & Fitness Advanced Programmed Elliptical Machine.
This elliptical includes a built-in device holder, so you can keep your favorite media devices close for entertainment, and magnetic resistance for smooth strides.
With a weight capacity of 330 pounds and floor stabilizers to keep the machine steady, you’ll be able to get a powerful workout with 24 unique modes such as manual, pre-program, watt, body fat, heart rate, and user programs.
Keep track of your stats with an onboard backlit display that shows speed, time, distance, calories burned (etc). Challenge yourself and start achieving your fitness goals today!
3.) Recumbent Bikes
A recumbent bike is a type of exercise equipment that provides a low-impact workout.
The user sits in a reclined position, which helps to reduce strain on the back and musculoskeletal system.
In addition, the pedals are positioned in front of the body, which allows the user to generate more strength and power.
Resultantly, recumbent bikes provide an effective workout for both beginner and experienced riders. And because they are easy on the joints, they are ideal for people who want to stay active but need to limit their intensity level.
Top 3 Recumbent Bikes for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: Sole Fitness R92 Recumbent Cycle
The Sole Fitness R92 Indoor Recumbent Cycle is the perfect choice for a comfortable workout.
It features 20 levels of computerized auto tension resistance with a 20 lb magnetic flywheel system, 9-Inch high-resolution illuminate LCD screen with 10 program options and real time feedback displaying time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, level, laps, RPM, watts and more.
The pedal design has an inward tilt to help keep your body in its correct posture while the adjustable seat and supportive back rest make it even more comfortable.
And, with Bluetooth 3.0 Audio Speakers you can listen to music from any enabled device without interruption. You’ll also get a USB port to charge your smart devices while working out and maximum weight recommendation of 300 pounds for safely using this recumbent cycle.
2.) Most Durable: NordicTrack VR25
The NordicTrack VR25 is a top-of-the-line exercise bike that comes with several features to make your workout more comfortable and effective.
The integrated, pivoting tablet holder lets you use your own device to follow along with fitness apps or virtual reality workouts, while the Auxiliary Music Port lets you plug in headphones or speakers to stay motivated.
The 25 lb. inertia-enhanced flywheel provides a smooth, consistent ride, and the solid steel construction ensures durability.
The oversized, lumbar-supported cushion seat is comfortable for long rides, and the easy-glide seat adjustment lets you find the perfect position.
The extra-wide, ergonomic foot pedals with adjustable straps keep your feet in place, and the auto breeze workout fan keeps you cool.
The NordicTrack VR25 also comes with 35 onboard workouts and a water bottle holder. The front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move around, and the AC adapter is included.
The NordicTrack VR25 comes with a 10-year frame warranty.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Schwinn 230 (MY20) Recumbent Bike
Experience a whole new level of fitness with the Schwinn 230 (MY20) Recumbent Bike. With 50+ global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed and 1000+ structured workouts, you’ll never have to worry about hitting a plateau.
Enhanced Bluetooth connectivity lets you connect with the Zwift app for 80+ virtual routes and 13 workout programs on the 5.5″ LCD.
You’ll also get 16 levels of magnetic resistance for plenty of workout intensity options as well as a telemetry heart rate enabled feature and ergonomically designed grip heart rate monitors so you can stay in your target heart rate zone during your rides.
Finish off your experience with a thick padded contoured seat with large vented back that keeps you comfortable during long rides.
4.) Stationary Bikes
When it comes to choosing an exercise bike, many people opt for the non-recumbent stationary variety.
First, they can be relatively inexpensive, are easy to use, and don’t require an intensive setup.
Additionally, stationary bikes provide a low-impact workout making them an excellent choice for people with joint and mobility issues.
Finally, stationary bikes are highly effective in terms of calorie burn and can help you reach your fitness goals more quickly.
Top 3 Stationary Bikes for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: Bowflex VeloCore 22 IC Bike
Get a personalized fitness experience with the 1-Year JRNY Membership included with this machine. Choose your riding style: Leaning Mode or Stationary Mode, depending on your preferences.
With the VRNY membership, you can select from trainer-led videos, speed-matched scenic destinations, and more. Explore 50+ global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed with Explore the World video.
The Bluetooth connectivity lets you even use popular third party cycling apps like Peloton and Zwift on your smartphone, tablet or smart TV as well as streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu and HBO Max.
No matter what level of resistance you pick – from 100 levels available – you’ll have a comfortable workout with 6-hand position handlebars, fore/aft & height adjustable seat and Dual link pedals with toe cages or Shimano SPD clips.
Lastly, with the Bowflex 22 IC, you’ll also get bonus 3 lb dumbbells with easy access cradles and dual water bottle holders included!
2.) Most Durable: Horizon 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle
Horizon 5.0 IC INDOOR CYCLE is a top-of-the-line indoor exercise bike that has 100 levels of resistance that can be controlled with a push of a button.
You can use this bike to easily keep pace with your favorite classes. The precision aluminum flywheel and magnetic resistance system provide for a smooth and quiet ride.
The versatile dual-sided pedals with toe cages and SPD clips allow you to choose how you want to ride. You can also have a clear view of your workout data on the LCD window.
The adjustable handlebars and seat make it so you can have the most comfortable ride possible.
Horizon 5.0 IC INDOOR CYCLE is also small-space friendly, so you don’t have to worry about it taking up too much room in your house.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
The Schwinn 170 Upright Bike is a great way to get in shape and track your progress.
The bike has an adjustable angle, padded handlebars, and a padded contoured seat for a comfortable ride. It also has a DualTrack two-blue backlit LCD screen that tracks your time, distance, and calorie goals.
You can also transfer metrics via Bluetooth to the Explore the World app and other popular apps.
The Schwinn 170 Upright Bike also includes a charging USB port and an MP3 input and a media shelf which is a great place to put your water bottle while you’re riding.
5.) Rowing Machines
Rowing machines offer a great workout for your upper body.
They are low-impact and can be adjustable to different levels of intensity, making them a great choice for people of all fitness levels.
Rowing machines also provide a full range of motion, working all the major muscles in your upper body including your back, shoulders, arms, and chest.
Regular use of a rowing machine can help to increase muscle strength and endurance, improve posture, and reduce the risk of injuries.
In addition, rowing is a highly efficient exercise that can help you to burn calories and fat, making it a beneficial addition to any weight loss or fitness program.
Top 3 Rowing Machines for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: SOLE Fitness R900 Air/Magnetic Rower
SOLE Fitness is proud to present the R900 Air/Magnetic Rower. As SOLE’s premiere commercial-grade rower, the R900 was designed to provide a smooth, balanced, and self-generating rowing experience.
The rower features an adjustable monitor arm that folds to store, a large backlit LCD screen display, and a 19.2″ seat height on a 52″ commercial-style aluminum rail with stainless steel track.
The ergonomic handle is attached to a Kevlar belt to promote natural arm and hand position, and the quick frame lock and separation mechanism allows for a quick release for storage or lock during use.
The 11 workout programs include a quick start, 9 preset targets, and 1 interval program. The SOLE R900 Air/Magnetic Rower is sure to provide a challenging and enjoyable workout for all users.
2.) Most Durable: NordicTrack RW600 Rowing Machine
The NordicTrack RW600 Rowing Machine is the perfect way to get a full-body workout at home.
With its 10” Smart HD Touchscreen, you can keep track of your workout progress and mix up your routine with 26 digital resistance levels. The Adjustable Console also allows you to customize your workout to target specific muscle groups.
And the Inertia Enhanced Flywheel ensures a smooth, quiet rowing experience.
The NordicTrack RW600 is also built to last, with a robust steel frame and a 10-year warranty. So if you’re looking for a high-quality rowing machine that will give you years of use, it’s a perfect choice.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine is a great choice for people who are looking for a durable and sturdy rowing machine.
It is made of a heavy-duty steel frame and can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs.
The machine comes with an LCD console that displays time, count, calories, total count, and scan, it also has a built-in transportation wheel for easy portability.
And last, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Rowing Machine has a non-slip foot pedal and foot strap to help you keep your feet in place while exercising.
6.) Pilates Reformers
A pilates reformer is a full-body workout machine that uses springs and pulleys to provide resistance.
The machine can be adjusted to different levels of difficulty, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels.
The reformer provides a low-impact workout and can help to improve your flexibility, strength, and posture.
The machine can also help to tone your muscles and elongate your spine and additionally, can help to increase your circulation and improve your balance.
Overall, the reformer is an excellent tool for achieving full-body fitness.
Top 3 Pilates Reformers for Your Home Gym
1.) Best Overall: Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Home Pilates Reformer
The Stamina AeroPilates Pro Reformer is a versatile and effective piece of equipment that can help you stay fit and healthy.
This reformer comes with a free-form cardio rebounder, which provides a gentle and safe cardio workout that is as effective as a treadmill.
The rails are 8 inches longer than standard reformers, so you can easily adjust the height of the headrest, footrest, ropes, straps, and handgrips.
The high-density foam shoulder pads provide support and comfort while you are working out.
With its many features, the AeroPilates Pro Reformer is an excellent choice for those who want to get a great workout without having to go to the gym.
2.) Most Durable: MERRITHEW At Home SPX Reformer Bundle
The MERRITHEW At Home SPX Reformer Bundle is a home Pilates reformer package that includes a reformer, 4 full-tension and 1 half-tension reformer springs, a padded platform extender, an adjustable 4-position foot bar, and 2 workout DVDs.
The reformer measures 22 by 97 inches (W x L) and the carriage measures 22 x 38.5 inches (W x L).
The MERRITHEW At Home SPX Reformer Bundle is designed to increase core strength, flexibility, mobility, and endurance, and is high-quality, durable product that is easy to set up and use.
3.) Best Cheap Option: Stamina AeroPilates Reformer 287
Stamina’s AeroPilates Reformer 287 is a great way to get a full-body workout in the comfort of your own home.
This reformer features adjustable resistance with three heavy-duty, elastic bungee cords, allowing you to customize your workout to meet your fitness goals.
The black steel frame and padded gray platform provide a stable and comfortable surface for your workouts, while the padded, three-position adjustable headrest ensures you can stay comfortable throughout your session.
Additionally, the six non-skid supports provide added stability, and the foldable frame with wheels makes it easy to move and store when not in use.
Finally, the Stamina AeroPilates Reformer 287 comes with a full-color workout wall chart to help you get the most out of your workouts.
What are the benefits of using a home workout machine?
There are many benefits of using a home workout machine. First, they provide a great way to get a full-body workout without having to go to the gym.
Additionally, home workout machines are usually low-impact, meaning they are easy on the joints.
This makes them an ideal choice for people with joint problems or injuries.
Finally, home workout machines are often very effective in terms of calorie burn and can help you reach your goals more quickly.
What are the most common mistakes people make when using a home workout machine?
- One of the most common mistakes people make when using a home workout machine is not starting slowly enough.
- It’s important to ease into your workout and gradually increase the intensity level.
- Additionally, people often make the mistake of not using the proper form when working out. This can lead to injuries or muscle strains.
How often should I use a home workout machine to see results?
Most experts recommend that people exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week.
However, if you’re just starting out, you may want to start with two to three days a week and gradually increase your workout time.
And if you’re walking, gradually increase your walk to 45 minutes or an hour.
Remember, consistency is key when trying to see results from any type of exercise program.
What are some tips for staying safe when using a home workout machine?
There are a few things you can do to stay safe when using a home workout machine:
- First, make sure you read the instruction manual before using the machine and educate yourself on how to use it properly.
- Next, it’s important to warm up for five to ten minutes before starting your workout.
- Be sure to listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.
- Last, be sure to always consult a physician before entering into any dietary changes or physical fitness programs
With these safety tips in mind, you can confidently use a home workout machine and achieve your fitness goals.