Dreaming of a great workout without breaking the bank? You’ve probably thought about getting an elliptical machine. They’re fantastic for your heart and easy on your joints. But buying a new one can cost a lot of money. That’s where looking at used ellipticals comes in! It’s a smart way to get fit without spending too much.
Yet, diving into the world of used fitness equipment can feel a bit overwhelming. You might wonder, “How do I know if it’s a good deal?” or “Will it even last?” Picking the right used elliptical means avoiding machines that are worn out or don’t work well. It can be tricky to spot these problems before you buy.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll guide you through what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to make sure you’re getting a quality machine. You’ll learn how to find a used elliptical that fits your needs and budget perfectly. Let’s get started on finding your next great workout partner!
Our Top 5 Used Elliptical Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Used Elliptical Detailed Reviews
1. Niceday Elliptical Machine
Rating: 9.0/10
The Niceday Elliptical Machine offers a smooth, quiet, and effective workout right in your own home. Its design focuses on comfort and durability, making it a great addition to any fitness routine.
What We Like:
- The magnetic drive system is incredibly quiet, so you can work out anytime without disturbing others.
- It has 16 different resistance levels, letting you easily adjust your workout intensity.
- The 15.5-inch stride is natural and easy on your knees, suitable for most people.
- It’s built tough with a 100-pound mainframe, supporting up to 400 pounds.
- Assembly is super fast, taking only about 20 minutes.
- The digital monitor tracks your progress, showing time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse.
- Its compact size and transport wheels make it easy to fit and move around your home.
- Niceday offers lifelong service and free replacement parts, which is a big plus.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s built for home use, the 100-pound mainframe might feel heavy for some to move initially before setting it up.
- The digital monitor is basic; some users might prefer more advanced tracking features.
This Niceday elliptical is a solid choice for anyone wanting a quiet, effective, and durable home workout. Its user-friendly design and strong support make it a great value.
2. Under Desk Elliptical Machine
Rating: 9.4/10
Transform your sitting time into an active opportunity with the Under Desk Elliptical Machine. This electric seated pedal exerciser is designed to help you burn calories, improve circulation, and stay fit while you work, read, or watch TV. It’s a fantastic way to boost productivity and your well-being, all from the comfort of your chair.
What We Like:
- Versatile Workout Modes: Offers 12 speed levels and 12 programmed modes, including HR (Manual) and Auto modes, catering to rehabilitation, muscle strengthening, and general fitness.
- Forward & Reverse Motion: Provides a comprehensive leg workout by allowing you to pedal in both directions.
- User-Friendly Remote Control: The included remote lets you adjust settings without bending, making it ideal for seniors and those with mobility issues.
- Quiet Operation: Features a mute system for ultra-quiet workouts, so you won’t disturb colleagues or sleeping babies.
- Real-Time Tracking: The LCD monitor displays time, distance, counts, and calories burned, keeping you informed about your progress.
- Ideal Gift: A thoughtful present for office workers, the elderly, or anyone needing rehabilitation, promoting relaxation and blood circulation.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Standing: The product explicitly states it should not be used while standing, limiting its versatility for some users.
- Screen Sound Prompt: While the sound prompt can be turned off, the process requires specific steps and might be slightly inconvenient for some.
This under-desk elliptical is a smart choice for anyone looking to integrate more movement into their day without disrupting their routine. It offers a quiet, effective, and convenient way to improve leg health and overall fitness.
3. HARISON Elliptical Machine for Home 350 LBS Capacity
Rating: 8.7/10
The HARISON Elliptical Machine for Home offers a robust and user-friendly way to get fit without leaving your house. Its magnetic resistance and ergonomic design make it a comfortable and effective tool for workouts, whether you’re just starting out or looking to push your limits. This machine is built for a variety of users and fitness levels.
What We Like:
- The large, anti-slip pedals keep your feet secure during workouts.
- A clear digital monitor shows your time, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse.
- It’s very easy to set up, with 90% of it already assembled, taking less than 30 minutes.
- Built with a strong 70-pound mainframe, it can safely support up to 350 pounds.
- The 16 resistance levels let you choose the perfect intensity, from gentle recovery to tough fat-burning.
- HARISON offers a lifetime of customer support and helpful installation videos.
- You can connect to the HARISON App for guided workout courses designed for you.
- A 30-day trial and a 12-month warranty give you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits many heights, users significantly outside the 5’1″ to 6’7″ range might find it less ideal.
- The Bluetooth feature requires downloading a separate app, which adds an extra step.
This HARISON elliptical trainer is a solid choice for home fitness, offering great features and support for its price. It’s a well-rounded machine for achieving your fitness goals.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness Programmable Electro-Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer Exercise Machine
Rating: 8.7/10
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 elliptical trainer helps you get a great workout at home. It provides a smooth, quiet experience for effective cardio. This machine is designed for comfort and to help you reach your fitness goals.
What We Like:
- It has 16 levels of magnetic resistance. This lets you easily change how hard you work out.
- The monitor shows all your important stats like speed, distance, and calories.
- You get 24 built-in workout programs to keep things interesting.
- It runs very quietly thanks to the magnetic resistance and belt drive.
- The 15.5-inch stride length gives you a good full-body, low-impact workout.
- It can support users up to 330 pounds, so it’s built strong.
- Adjustable stabilizers keep it steady, and the footplates are wide and textured.
- A phone/tablet holder makes it easy to follow along with workouts or watch something.
- Moving it is simple with the built-in wheels.
- Assembly is straightforward with clear instructions and a video guide.
- Sunny Health & Fitness is a trusted U.S. company with good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the stride length is good, some users might prefer a longer stride.
- The heart rate sensors are in the handlebars, which means you can’t monitor your heart rate accurately if you’re not holding them.
This elliptical is a solid choice for anyone looking for a quiet, effective, and user-friendly home cardio machine. It offers a lot of features for a great price.
5. Under Desk Elliptical Machine
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the PUTNEN Under Desk Elliptical Machine, a bright orange, electric leg exerciser designed for comfort and convenience. This “As Seen on TV” gem is perfect for seniors and anyone looking to stay active while seated. It’s a fantastic way to get your legs moving, even when you’re working or relaxing.
What We Like:
- It offers two ways to exercise: manual with 12 speed levels and an automatic mode with three programs.
- You can pedal forward or backward, letting you work different muscles and reach your fitness goals.
- This machine is gentle on your joints, making it great for people who sit a lot, have leg discomfort, or are recovering from an injury.
- It helps your blood flow better and makes your leg muscles stronger.
- The elliptical moves very quietly, so it won’t bother anyone around you.
- It’s small and easy to move, so you can use it wherever you want.
- A clear LCD screen shows your speed, distance, time, and calories burned.
- The remote control is a nice touch, letting you change settings without bending over.
- PUTNEN provides lifetime after-sales service and a three-month return option for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The remote control doesn’t come with batteries, so you need to buy them separately.
This under-desk elliptical is a smart choice for staying active and improving your leg strength. Its user-friendly design and quiet operation make it a welcome addition to any home or office.
Your Guide to Buying a Used Elliptical
Looking for a great workout without breaking the bank? A used elliptical can be a fantastic option! These machines offer a low-impact way to get your heart pumping and build strength. But buying used means you need to know what to look for. This guide will help you find a quality elliptical that fits your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re checking out a used elliptical, keep these important features in mind:
- Resistance Levels: Most ellipticals have adjustable resistance. More levels mean you can make your workout harder or easier. Look for a good range that suits your fitness goals.
- Stride Length: This is the distance your feet travel forward and backward. A longer stride length often feels more natural and works more muscles. Check if it feels comfortable for your height.
- Incline/Adjustable Ramp: Some ellipticals let you change the angle of the ramp. This targets different leg muscles. It’s a nice bonus feature.
- Heart Rate Monitor: Many ellipticals have built-in heart rate sensors. These help you stay in your target heart rate zone for effective cardio.
- Pre-Set Programs: These programs can guide you through different workouts, like hills or interval training. They add variety and challenge.
- Console Display: The display shows your workout data (time, distance, calories, etc.). Make sure it’s easy to read and understand.
2. Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used in an elliptical affect its durability and how it feels to use.
- Frame: A sturdy, heavy frame is usually a sign of a well-built machine. It will feel more stable during your workout. Look for steel frames, as they are strong and durable.
- Pedals: Comfortable, non-slip pedals are important. They should be large enough to fit your feet securely.
- Handlebars: Check if the handlebars are padded and comfortable to grip. Some have moving handlebars for a full-body workout.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can tell you if a used elliptical is a good buy or not.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make more reliable machines. Do a quick online search for reviews of the brand.
- Smooth Operation: The elliptical should move smoothly without any jerky motions or loud noises.
- Minimal Wear and Tear: Look for machines that don’t show excessive rust, scratches, or worn-out parts.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Wobbly Frame: If the machine feels unstable, it might not be built well or could have loose parts.
- Squeaking or Grinding Noises: These sounds often mean parts need lubrication or repair.
- Damaged Console: A broken display or unresponsive buttons make the machine less useful.
- Stiff Pedals or Handlebars: If they don’t move freely, it could indicate internal problems.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the elliptical.
- Home Gym: A used elliptical is perfect for creating your own home gym. You can get a great workout without leaving your house.
- Cardio Fitness: Ellipticals are excellent for improving cardiovascular health. They burn calories and strengthen your heart and lungs.
- Low-Impact Workout: If you have joint pain, an elliptical is a gentler option than running. It reduces stress on your knees and ankles.
- Full-Body Workout: Many ellipticals engage your upper body and lower body at the same time. This makes your workout more efficient.
- Rehabilitation: Some people use ellipticals for physical therapy after an injury because of the low impact.
When you test a used elliptical, spend at least five minutes on it. Try different resistance levels and programs. Listen for any strange sounds. A little research and careful inspection can help you find a fantastic used elliptical for your home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to check on a used elliptical?
A: The most important feature is the overall smooth operation and stability of the machine. It should feel sturdy and move without jerky motions or loud noises.
Q: How can I tell if an elliptical is too old?
A: Look for signs of heavy wear, rust, outdated technology on the console, or if the brand is no longer supported. Older machines might also lack modern features like pre-set programs.
Q: Should I be worried about squeaking sounds?
A: Yes, squeaking sounds can be a concern. They often mean parts need lubrication or might be worn out. Ask the seller if they’ve recently lubricated it, or be prepared to do so yourself.
Q: What is a good stride length for a used elliptical?
A: A stride length between 18 and 22 inches is generally comfortable for most adults. Shorter strides might feel cramped for taller people, and longer strides can be harder for shorter individuals.
Q: Can I get a good workout on a basic used elliptical without fancy programs?
A: Absolutely! Even basic ellipticals with adjustable resistance allow for a great cardio workout. You can create your own interval training by manually changing the resistance.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a used elliptical?
A: Prices vary greatly depending on the brand, age, features, and condition. You might find decent models for a few hundred dollars, while higher-end used ellipticals could cost more.
Q: Are there any specific brands that are known for making durable ellipticals?
A: Brands like Precor, Sole Fitness, NordicTrack, and ProForm are generally known for making durable and reliable fitness equipment.
Q: What if the console display isn’t working?
A: If the console display isn’t working, it’s a significant drawback. You’ll miss out on tracking your progress. You might be able to get it repaired, but factor that cost into your purchase decision.
Q: Is it okay if the used elliptical has some cosmetic flaws?
A: Minor cosmetic flaws like small scratches or scuffs are usually okay, as long as they don’t affect the machine’s function or structural integrity. Focus on how it operates.
Q: What’s the best way to transport a used elliptical after buying it?
A: Ellipticals can be heavy and bulky. You’ll likely need a truck or large van. Consider renting a moving truck or hiring movers if you don’t have suitable transportation.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.