Imagine stepping onto a machine that melts away calories and strengthens your entire body, all while being gentle on your joints. That’s the magic of a commercial elliptical machine! But with so many choices out there, picking the perfect one for your gym or home can feel like a workout in itself. You want a machine that’s durable, effective, and fits your budget, but navigating the endless features and brands can be confusing.
Choosing the wrong elliptical can lead to frustration, wasted money, and workouts that just don’t cut it. You might be wondering about the best resistance levels, the most helpful programs, or how to ensure it can handle heavy use. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide.
By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what makes a commercial elliptical stand out. We’ll break down the key features you need to look for, help you understand the differences between top models, and give you the confidence to make a smart investment. Get ready to find the elliptical that will transform your fitness space!
Our Top 5 Commercial Elliptical Machine Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Commercial Elliptical Machine Detailed Reviews
1. Elliptical Machine: E35 Elliptical Gym Equipment for Home and Studio
Rating: 9.1/10
The E35 Elliptical Machine is a fantastic piece of home gym equipment. It’s designed for both home and studio use, offering a full-body workout that’s easy on your joints. With its smart features and comfortable design, it makes staying active at home more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- It’s space-saving, so it fits easily into most rooms.
- The four rear wheels and sturdy rails make it very stable during workouts.
- You can adjust the incline with 20 levels, offering a great range of challenge.
- The 10.1-inch touchscreen is bright and easy to read, and it connects to WiFi.
- You can use the Sole+ app for lots of workout classes to keep you motivated.
- The machine has a fan, a water bottle holder, and wireless charging for your phone.
- The pedals are angled to reduce stress on your ankles and knees.
- It has a 25 lb flywheel for smooth resistance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Delivery scheduling requires you to actively update your contact information to avoid potential issues.
The E35 Elliptical Machine is a well-rounded and user-friendly option for anyone looking to improve their fitness at home. Its blend of technology and comfort makes it a solid investment for your health.
2. Octane Fitness LateralX Elliptical Machine – Commercial Grade
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready for a fitness game-changer! The Octane Fitness LateralX Elliptical Machine – Commercial Grade is not your average elliptical. It lets you move in three directions – up and down, forward and back, and side to side. This amazing 3D motion makes your workouts super versatile and lets you customize them just for you. It’s built tough, like the machines you see at the gym, so you know it’s made to last and handle serious training.
What We Like:
- Its unique 3D motion lets you move in three directions: up/down, forward/back, and side-to-side.
- You can burn up to 27% more calories by changing the width of your stride from 1 to 10.
- It helps you train for sports and makes everyday movements easier.
- You’ll work your inner and outer thighs more, with up to a 30% increase in hip muscle activity compared to other ellipticals.
- The Workout Booster makes it easy to add High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) for faster results.
What Could Be Improved:
- The commercial-grade build means it’s a larger piece of equipment, so make sure you have enough space.
- As a high-quality, commercial-grade machine, the price point might be higher than standard home ellipticals.
The Octane Fitness LateralX offers an incredibly effective and engaging way to boost your fitness. You’ll experience a more complete workout that targets muscles you might miss on other machines.
3. Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
Rating: 9.5/10
The Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer is a top-notch piece of fitness equipment. It’s built for serious workouts and offers a smooth, comfortable experience. This machine is designed to give you a full-body workout without putting too much strain on your joints.
What We Like:
- The patented adjustable CrossRamp technology lets you change the height of your stride. This means you can target different muscles in your legs and glutes.
- Its patented, low-impact EFX motion feels natural and easy on your body. You get a great workout without the jarring impact of running.
- You can track your heart rate with the touch and telemetry monitoring. This helps you stay in your target heart rate zone for better results.
- The ergonomic moving handlebars are great. They allow you to work your arms and upper body at the same time, giving you a complete workout.
- This elliptical is built to last, making it a good investment for any home gym.
What Could Be Improved:
- The machine is quite large and heavy, measuring 80 by 32 by 68 inches and weighing 412 pounds. This means it needs a dedicated space and might be difficult to move once set up.
- While it’s a high-quality machine, the price point can be a barrier for some home users.
Overall, the Precor EFX 835 is an excellent elliptical for those who want a challenging and effective full-body workout. Its advanced features and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to any fitness routine.
4. Precor EFX 833 Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
Rating: 8.8/10
The Precor EFX 833 Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer is a top-notch machine for a great workout. It’s built for serious fitness and offers a smooth, natural experience. This elliptical is designed to give you a full-body workout, targeting your legs and glutes effectively. It’s a solid piece of equipment for any home gym.
What We Like:
- The patented adjustable CrossRamp technology lets you change how high the elliptical path goes. This means you can target different leg muscles easily.
- You get a smooth and natural movement with the patented, low-impact EFX motion. It feels good on your joints.
- Heart rate monitoring is simple. You can use touch sensors or telemetry.
- The fixed handlebars are great for focusing your workout on your lower body. This helps build leg strength and endurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- This machine is quite heavy, weighing 338 pounds. Moving it might be a challenge.
- The dimensions are 85 by 32 by 44 inches. Make sure you have enough space for it in your home.
The Precor EFX 833 is a powerful and effective elliptical for serious users. Its advanced features provide a customizable and joint-friendly workout experience.
5. 3G Cardio Elite EM X Elliptical Trainer Machine with 18”- 23” Adjustable Stride
Rating: 9.4/10
The 3G Cardio Elite EM X Elliptical Trainer is a fantastic machine for your home gym. It offers a smooth workout with its adjustable stride and quiet operation. Plus, it’s built tough for regular use.
What We Like:
- The adjustable stride length (18″, 20″, 23″) lets you switch from walking to running.
- It fits in small spaces with a compact 49.2” footprint.
- You can connect to fitness apps with FreeSync™ FTMS smart HD connectivity.
- It has a USB charging port for your devices and a handy tablet shelf.
- The machine is built with commercial-grade parts for durability.
- It supports users up to 350 pounds.
- A 5-year parts warranty gives you peace of mind.
- The workout is very quiet thanks to the silent magnetic resistance and a special flywheel system.
What Could Be Improved:
- The in-home labor warranty is only for 1 year, which is shorter than the parts warranty.
- While compact for use, the initial box size is quite large, making it a bit challenging to move before assembly.
This elliptical trainer provides a high-quality workout in a compact design. It’s a solid investment for anyone looking to improve their fitness at home.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Commercial Elliptical Machine
What to Look For in a Commercial Elliptical Machine
When you’re setting up a gym or looking for a durable, high-quality cardio machine for your business, a commercial elliptical is a great choice. These machines are built tough to handle lots of use. Here’s what you should consider:
1. Key Features to Look For
- Durability and Build Quality: Commercial ellipticals need to last. Look for heavy-duty frames made from strong steel. This means the machine won’t wobble or break easily.
- Smooth and Natural Motion: A good elliptical feels natural to use. The stride length should be comfortable for most people. You want the pedals to move in a fluid, elliptical shape, not jerky.
- Resistance Levels: More resistance options mean users can get a harder workout. Look for a wide range of resistance, from easy to very challenging. Many commercial ellipticals use magnetic resistance, which is quiet and smooth.
- Console and Programs: The display screen (console) should be easy to read. It should show important stats like time, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. Many machines have built-in workout programs that offer variety and help users reach their fitness goals.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Most good ellipticals have sensors on the handlebars to track heart rate. Some also work with chest straps for more accurate readings.
- Stride Length: This is the distance your feet travel in one revolution. A longer stride length, usually 20 inches or more, is better for taller people and provides a more complete workout.
- Weight Capacity: Check the maximum weight the machine can support. Commercial machines are usually built to handle higher weights than home models.
2. Important Materials
- Steel Frame: High-quality steel is essential for a strong and stable frame. This is the backbone of the machine.
- High-Density Plastic: Parts like the shrouds and some console components are often made of durable plastic. It should feel solid, not flimsy.
- Quality Bearings: Good bearings in the pedals and joints ensure a smooth, quiet operation and long life.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improved Quality:
- Heavy Flywheel: A heavier flywheel contributes to a smoother, more consistent feel.
- Adjustable Foot Pedals: Some machines let you adjust the angle of the pedals, which can improve comfort and target different muscles.
- Ergonomic Handlebars: Moving handlebars that allow for upper body workouts make the machine more versatile.
- Reduced Quality:
- Lightweight Construction: If the machine feels light or wobbly, it’s likely not built for heavy commercial use.
- Noisy Operation: Grinding or squeaking sounds often mean lower-quality parts or poor assembly.
- Limited Resistance Options: If there are only a few resistance levels, users might outgrow the machine quickly.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Commercial ellipticals are used in many places:
- Gyms and Fitness Centers: They are the workhorses of any gym, used by many people every day.
- Corporate Wellness Programs: Businesses often provide them for employee health.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Their low-impact nature makes them suitable for people recovering from injuries.
- Hotels and Spas: They offer guests a way to stay active.
The user experience should be comfortable and effective. People of different fitness levels should be able to use the machine and get a good workout. The controls should be intuitive, and the display should be easy to understand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial Elliptical Machines
Q: What makes an elliptical “commercial grade”?
A: Commercial grade means the machine is built with stronger materials and designed to be used by many people for many hours a day, every day. They are much more durable than home use ellipticals.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a commercial elliptical?
A: Commercial ellipticals are an investment. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the brand and features.
Q: Is a heavier elliptical always better?
A: Generally, yes. A heavier machine usually means a sturdier frame and a heavier flywheel, which leads to a smoother and more stable workout.
Q: What is stride length, and why is it important?
A: Stride length is the distance your feet travel in one complete pedal cycle. A longer stride length, like 20 inches or more, is more comfortable for taller individuals and provides a more natural, effective workout.
Q: What kind of resistance do commercial ellipticals use?
A: Most commercial ellipticals use magnetic resistance. This is quiet, smooth, and allows for many different levels of difficulty.
Q: How do I know if an elliptical will be comfortable for different users?
A: Look for adjustable features like stride length (though this is less common on commercial models) and a wide range of resistance. Also, consider a machine with a comfortable pedal spacing and cushioning.
Q: Are there any maintenance tips I should know for commercial ellipticals?
A: Yes, regular cleaning is important. Check for loose bolts, and ensure the machine is operating smoothly. Many commercial machines come with maintenance guides.
Q: Can I use a commercial elliptical for upper body workouts?
A: Many commercial ellipticals have moving handlebars. These allow you to engage your arms and upper body for a full-body workout.
Q: What’s the difference between an elliptical and a treadmill?
A: An elliptical provides a low-impact workout, meaning your joints are not stressed. A treadmill involves running or walking, which can be harder on your knees and ankles.
Q: How important is the console display on a commercial elliptical?
A: The console is very important. It should clearly display workout data like time, distance, calories, and heart rate. Pre-set programs on the console can also add variety to workouts.
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.