The Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss: 7 Options to Add to Your Home Gym

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Cardio equipment is often the centerpiece of any home gym, and it usually winds up being the most expensive buy. As a major investment for your personal workout space, it’s important to choose the best cardio machine for your needs, especially if you have specific goals like weight loss. Experts recommend doing cardio at least five days per week for a total of 250 minutes or more to successfully lose weight, and there’s no better way to hit those guidelines than to have a cardio machine for weight loss at home.

While some of the highest rated treadmills are a top choice for at-home cardio machines to help with weight loss, today’s options go far beyond these classic machines to include unique fitness equipment that suits all interests. If you’re embarking on a weight loss journey and want to find a cardio machine to support your goals, our best cardio machines for weight loss guide will cover our top picks across different categories and everything you need to know before making a purchase. We’ll also share the health benefits and pros and cons, plus how to determine which type of exercise equipment to lose weight is right for you.

Our Picks for the Best Cardio Machine for Weight Loss:

• Rowing Machine: Aviron Impact Series Rower 
• Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
• Smart Cardio Machine: Tonal
• Exercise Bike: Echelon Connect EX-5s-22
• Recumbent Exercise Bike: Sole Fitness R92
• Elliptical: NordicTrack FS14i
• Climbing Machine: CLMBR Connected 02

Best Rowing Machine: Aviron Impact Series Rower

Key Features:

• Price: $1,899
• Benefits: Can decrease fat mass while increasing lean body mass
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: 250-300 calories
• Muscles used: Quadriceps, glutes, deltoids, lats and abdominal

Indoor rowing machines give you a major cardiovascular workout, with the option to adjust the intensity from a light row to a heart-pumping push. These low-impact, full-body cardio machines target upper-body muscle groups such as deltoids and lats, as well as working your core and lower body muscle groups. Our favorite rowing machine for weight loss to add to your home gym is Aviron, which is widely hailed across the fitness community as one of the best in its category. This ultra high-tech machine takes rowing to the future with a 22-inch HD touchscreen that offers eight unique ways to exercise, including games, live competition, scenic rowing and guided programs. After all, it’s not every day that you can protect treasure from swarms of pirates as you burn fat.

In addition to its entertaining workout programs, which require a $25 monthly membership for full access, we also love this indoor rower for its standout features. Aviron can connect to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Spotify and more, so you can watch or listen to your favorite content while you exercise. It uses a dual air and magnetic resistance system to provide a realistic rowing experience that mimics rowing in water. 

While some indoor rowers can be loud (especially those that use air systems), Aviron runs at around 60 decibels, which is similar to conversational volume and offers a quiet and smooth rowing experience. Plus, if you have a smaller home gym or fitness space, Aviron can be stored vertically with just one push and includes built-in wheels to help you transport it into storage.

Pros:

• Connects to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Spotify and more
• Combines cardio and strength training
• Can be stored vertically to save room
• Unique workout programs include games and scenic rowing

Cons:

• Seat tends to be more firm than other rowing machines
• Requires monthly subscription for full access to content

Related Post: Aviron Strong Series Rower Review

Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

Key Features:

• Price: $2,999
• Benefits: Can promote fat loss, stimulate a healthy gut and increase lean body mass
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: 250-300 calories while walking at a brisk pace
• Muscles used: Quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and glutes

A treadmill tends to be the classic choice for exercise equipment to lose weight, and, in a nod to its popularity and health benefits, is arguably the best home cardio machine. These exercise machines can promote fat loss, increase lean body mass and even stimulate a healthy gut to boost digestion, all of which are important for successful weight loss. Paired with a weight loss app or weight loss program, a treadmill can be an effective addition to any weight loss plan.

Our best treadmill for weight loss is the NordicTrack 2450, which is a commercial treadmill that offers a premium workout experience that you can easily tailor to your fitness level. This high-end treadmill comes with a cinematic 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen (which you can pivot away from the machine for floor-based workouts) and 30-watt audio speakers. It’s also designed to work with an iFIT membership, which nets you live and on-demand fitness classes led by personal trainers. Each purchase includes a free 30-day iFIT trial, which costs $39 per month after the trial period.

Even without a membership, there are numerous ways to experience the fat-burning benefits that this piece of equipment offers. First, you can do high-intensity interval training by alternating brisk walking and running. Even better, you can increase your resistance levels by walking on an incline, which studies prove can increase your metabolic rate and how fast you burn calories (making it easier to go into the calorie deficit required for weight loss). Plus, if you do take advantage of iFIT and trainer-led classes, NordicTrack Commercial 2450 will automatically adjust your speed and incline to maintain your optimal heart rate zone. It also taps into SmartAdjust machine learning technology to adapt your workouts to your personal metrics.

Arguably the most impressive feature built into this machine’s functionality, however, is its Google Maps integration. This feature allows you to walk or run anywhere in the world, as long as your destination can be found on Google Maps.

Related Post: Which NordicTrack Treadmill is Right for You?

Pros:

• Rotating 22-inch HD touchscreen that can be used for floor workouts
• Google Maps integration allows scenic runs anywhere in the world
• SmartAdjust technology adjusts machine to suit your needs
• In-depth and personalized performance metrics and tracking

Cons:

• iFIT membership required for full access to content
• Some users report touchscreen is wobbly

Best Smart Cardio Machine: Tonal

Key Features:

• Price: $3,995
• Membership price: $59.95
• Benefits: Varies depending on workout (for example, pilates can reduce body weight, body mass index and body weight percentage)
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: Varies depending on workout (for example, boxing burns around 300 calories)
• Muscles used: Varies depending on workout (for example, yoga uses core, glutes, hamstrings and more)

Tonal is a highly unique piece of fitness equipment to lose weight, offering total-body workouts while taking up minimal-to-no space. In fact, there’s little that you can’t do on Tonal. This smart cardio machine is designed to be mounted on the wall, leaving your floor clear for workouts. Tonal essentially operates as a cross between a mirror and a TV screen where you can follow trainer-led workouts across 15 categories, including golf, pilates, yoga, strength training, boxing and even pre- and post-natal workouts. It also includes a pulley system that can be folded up or down for strength training programs and portions of classes. 

Offering more than 245 movements, Tonal is a great fit for those who don’t like or get bored of traditional cardio workouts, and prefer to do more sport-focused workouts (like golf) in the comfort of their own home. Plus, the ability to train your entire body, do HIIT exercises and follow recovery programs with just one machine can do wonders for your calorie burn (rather than going from machine to machine for the same results).

Related Post: Save on Tonal With Current Deals and Coupons

While Tonal might seem like an advanced cardio machine for weight loss, it’s actually very beginner-friendly. You can easily jump into new programs, and there are even workouts designed specifically for beginners. Depending on the amount of time you want to work out, you can opt for a class as short as 15 minutes to take during a quick lunch break or a longer class of 45 minutes or more. The only major fitness program Tonal doesn’t offer is indoor cycling, which you’ll need to purchase a separate spin bike for. 

To elevate your workouts, you can also opt to purchase an optional smart accessories bundle that includes smart handles, a smart bar, bench and more. Keep in mind that Tonal does require a Tonal membership for the first 12 months after your installation date, which costs $49 per month.

Pros:

• Offers more than 245 total movements
• Takes up minimal-to-no space
• Trainer-led workouts across 15 categories
• Classes range from 15-45 minutes

Cons:

• Smart accessories bundle sold separately for $495
• Costs can quickly add up with the machine, installation and membership
• May be difficult to use in a smaller space, since you’ll need at least five feet to each side

Best Exercise Bike: Echelon Connect EX-5s-22

Key Features:

• Price: $1,499.99
• Benefits: Can reduce body weight and fat mass when used regularly
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: 210-733 calories
• Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, core and back

Though the Peloton exercise bike may be a popular option for an indoor cycling bike, we’ve chosen Echelon Connect EX-5s-22 as our best exercise bike because of its better price point and comparable experience.

This magnetic resistance exercise bike offers 32 levels of resistance that let you change your workout intensity from light to challenging. It also includes a 22-inch HD touchscreen that can rotate 180 degrees for floor-based workouts. Like Peloton, this bike also offers live and on-demand classes as part of its Echelon Membership plan (which costs $34.99 per month). If you use your Echelon bike regularly, studies show that cycling on a regular basis can reduce body weight and fat mass and ultimately help you achieve your weight loss goals.

In addition, we also like Echelon Connect EX-5s-22 for its comfort features that help make workouts more enjoyable. It’s built with two power ports to charge your phone or tablet while working out, and includes a vented competition-style seat for comfortable rides. You can also adjust the toe cages, seat position and handlebars to fit users of any height.

Pros:

• 32 levels of magnetic resistance
• Includes two power ports for charging devices
• Touchscreen can be rotated for floor-based workouts
• More than 3,000 on-demand workouts and 40 daily live classes

Cons:

• Echelon community isn’t as robust as Peloton
• Some users may not like rear flywheel design
• Only offers a one year warranty

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Sole Fitness R92

Key Features:

• Price: $1,799.99
• Benefits: Can reduce body weight and fat mass when used regularly
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: 210-733 calories
• Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, core and back

A recumbent bike is a type of stationary bike that comes in a reclined position, and is a great type of exercise equipment to lose weight for those with joint issues, knee pain, arthritis or back pain who aren’t able to comfortably use upright or air bikes. Whether you use a recumbent bike for health needs or because you simply prefer the reclined position, this type of bike offers the same benefits as more traditional exercise or spin bikes when it comes to weight loss. Our favorite recumbent exercise bike is Sole Fitness R92, which offers a low-impact workout that can easily be modified from light to challenging. This ultra-comfortable bike has 20 resistance levels, 10 preset programs, cooling fans and accessory holders (such as water bottle holders and integrated tablet holders) to help make your workout more enjoyable. You can also adjust the seat and foot straps for any height.

Related Post: A Complete Sole Exercise Bike Guide

While this recumbent bike can easily be used on a manual or preset setting, you can opt for an optional Studio membership that nets you more than 3,000 on-demand workouts and trainer-led classes. Luckily, this is one of the lower-priced fitness memberships on our list and costs $19.99 per month. If a Studio membership isn’t for you, two of Sole Fitness R92’s preset programs can be customized, so you can easily tailor your workout to your personal fitness or heart rate goals.

Pros:

• Comfortable choice for those with limited mobility or pain
• 10 preset programs, two of which can be customized
• Padded and adjustable seat for extra comfort
• Integrated water bottle and tablet holders

Cons:

• Resistance options may be too light for some
• No on and off switch (needs to be unplugged to power off)
• Some users report noisy rides

Best Elliptical: NordicTrack FS14i

Key Features:

• Price: $2,499
• Benefits: Increases calorie burn
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: 270-378 calories
• Muscles used: Glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, chest, back, biceps, triceps and core

Elliptical machines are some of the highest calorie burners on our list, and for good reason. While exercising on an elliptical may feel like only a lower body workout, these cardio machines target your entire body and work most major muscle groups, including your back and arms. 

Our favorite elliptical for weight loss is the sleek NordicTrack FS14i, which not only looks nice in your home gym, but delivers numerous impressive features. This elliptical machine comes with a 14-inch smart HD touchscreen, an auto-adjusting stride functionality that adjusts your stride to match that of trainer-led classes from iFIT (which requires a membership), integrated Google Maps technology and the ability to create up to four user profiles for the whole family to enjoy.

And, if you want to change up your workout, you don’t have to settle on buying a separate machine. This three-in-one trainer offers not only elliptical exercises, but the ability to transform your machine into a treadmill or stair climber by changing the way that the foot pedals move. It also offers 26 digital resistance levels, a -10 percent decline and 10 percent incline and bluetooth audio capabilities to sync your favorite music for the ultimate workout.

Related: The Best NordicTrack Elliptical Machines: A Model Comparison Guide

Pros:

• Three-in-one machine that offers elliptical, treadmill and stair climber workouts
• 26 levels of digital resistance
• Sleek design and solid steel construction
• Oversized cushion foot pedals

Cons:

• iFIT membership required for full access to content
• Takes up a lot of space with a 32-inch stride range

Best Climbing Machine: CLMBR Connected 02

Key Features:

• Price: $2,795
• Benefits: Decreased risk for metabolic syndrome, which includes excess waist fat
• Estimated calories burned in a 30-minute workout: More than 600 calories
• Muscles used: Hamstrings, quads, calves and glutes

Chances are, you’ve probably seen a climbing or stepper machine at a gym, like a StairMaster. These stair-climbing workouts are hailed as some of the toughest cardio machine exercises, but they provide tremendous benefits including decreasing your risk for metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that can include excess waist fat. If you enjoy the challenge, a climbing machine can be a great investment for your home gym to help support your weight loss goals, especially if they include reducing fat around your waist area. 

Our favorite climbing machine for weight loss is the CLMBR Connected 02, a smart machine that offers an interactive experience. This unique climbing machine comes with a 10.5-inch touch screen display, movable handles and foot pedals and trainer-led classes with the purchase of a subscription plan (a Connected membership costs $40 per month for a premium plan that includes on-demand programs). It offers 11 levels of magnetic resistance with workouts that are designed to be high-intensity, so if you want to exercise at a slower pace, you may want to opt for a manual setting. The machine also has a smaller footprint that makes it a great choice for a compact piece of cardio equipment.

Pros:

• Compact design suitable for small spaces
• High-intensity workout programs
• Moveable handles and foot pedals

Cons:

• Not the best option for beginners
• Can be hard on your knees

How to Choose the Best Cardio Machine fr Weight Loss

Before buying a cardio machine for weight loss, be sure to consider these factors.

Your fitness goals

While all cardio machines on our list can help you achieve your weight loss goals, some machines work better than others at targeting specific needs, such as burning stubborn belly fat or increasing lean body mass. Others also include strength training components. Be sure to review our list to learn more about which machines are best for these specific fitness goals.

Size of unit

If you have a large home gym, the size of your machine probably won’t make too much difference (unless you already have multiple machines), but those with smaller gyms or workout areas tight on space should carefully consider the size of any machine that they buy. Not only does this help guarantee that the machine itself will fit into your home gym, but that you'll have enough room on all sides of you to carefully exercise. Before buying a machine, measure your home gym and the area where you’d like to keep your machine. A good rule of thumb to exercise safely and comfortably is to have five feet on all sides of you, including a few feet above you.

Your budget

Budget is arguably the single most important factor to consider for home gym buys, especially for cardio machines that tend to be the priciest investments for your workout space. A quality machine can easily start at $1,000 and climb as high as $4,000 or more, so be sure to carefully check a machine’s features and workout capabilities to determine if it has everything you need for the price you’re willing to pay. Don’t forget to factor in things like accessories, membership fees, shipping and delivery or installation costs, which can also add up fast.

Predisposition to injuries

Whether you have an existing injury or you’re simply predisposed to getting them (such as those with sore backs or ankle injuries that tend to get aggravated and flare up), be sure to factor in your health needs into any cardio machine purchase that you make. If you have a knee injury, for example, an elliptical machine may be hard on your knees and cause you pain, while an exercise bike can help you steer clear of potential issues (with the right form, of course). Those with arthritis or back pain can also opt for a padded recumbent bike with comfort features.

Personal preference

It’s important to consider your interests before buying a cardio machine, because the last thing you want to do is invest several thousand dollars into a machine for your home gym that you’ll never use or get bored with. Naturally, if you enjoy walking or running, you’ll want to gravitate towards a treadmill, while those who enjoy sports like boxing or golf can consider investing in a machine like Tonal, which will provide greater variety. If you want to do cardio and strength training at the same time, be sure to look for a machine that offers both, like an indoor rower.

How We Chose the Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss

We chose the best cardio machines for weight loss based on a number of factors. First, we looked at each machine’s benefits for weight loss, including fat burn, lean body mass gain and reduced body mass index. We also considered price, features, user experience, customer reviews, connectivity, construction quality, comfort and membership requirements. All of these factors combined helped us determine which cardio machines were worthy of a spot on our list.

Cardio Machines for Weight Loss FAQs

What cardio machine burns the most calories?

Elliptical machines tend to burn the most calories and can burn more than 800 calories per hour. Treadmills are a close second. However, it’s important to keep in mind that how many calories you burn will ultimately depend on the speed, intensity and duration of your workout. According to CLMBR’s website, their Connected 02 climbing machine burns more than 600 calories in 30 minutes, but most climbing machines have a burn range of 200-500 calories for the same time.

What cardio machine burns belly fat?

While all cardio machines can burn belly fat to some extent, treadmills rank supreme for their belly fat-burning benefits. Indoor rowing machines and climbing machines are also excellent choices for targeting stubborn belly fat. While you cannot target weight loss in a specific area of your body, studies show that high-intensity interval training is the most effective at helping you reach your weight loss goals.

How much cardio should I do a day to lose weight?

Experts recommend 150 minutes or more of moderate-intensity exercise (like brisk walking) per week to successfully lose weight. This equates to about 20 minutes of exercise per day or 30 minutes five days per week.

Is a treadmill or elliptical better for weight loss?

This long-running debate doesn’t have a clear-cut answer, but it will ultimately depend on how you exercise and which cardio machine you prefer to determine if a treadmill or elliptical is better for you to lose weight. While a treadmill allows for more versatility and diverse workouts, an elliptical machine tends to burn more calories. However, if a treadmill puts stress on your joints, then an elliptical will likely be a better choice for you to support your weight loss goals.

Final Thoughts

Having a quality cardio machine at home can be a great asset and investment for those with weight loss goals. While these machines do tend to get pricey, they’re worth it if you use them regularly, and, of course, if you buy the right product that’s best for your needs. If you’re looking to invest in a cardio machine for your home gym, be sure to consult our best cardio machine for weight loss guide to learn more about our favorite machines and how to maximize your results.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.